Dynactin 2, also known as DCTN2, is a crucial component of the dynactin complex, which is essential for various cellular processes, including intracellular transport, mitosis, and maintenance of cell structure. The recombinant form of Dynactin 2 (1-401 a.a.) is a human protein expressed in E. coli, consisting of the first 401 amino acids of the full-length protein.
The recombinant Dynactin 2 (1-401 a.a.) is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 424 amino acids, including a 23 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus. This His-tag facilitates purification through affinity chromatography . The molecular weight of this recombinant protein is approximately 46.6 kDa .
Dynactin 2 plays a pivotal role in the dynactin complex, which is involved in the regulation of dynein motor activity. Dynein is a motor protein that moves along microtubules, transporting various cellular cargoes, including organelles, vesicles, and proteins. The dynactin complex enhances dynein’s processivity and cargo-binding capabilities, making it essential for efficient intracellular transport.
In addition to its role in transport, Dynactin 2 is involved in mitosis, where it helps in the proper alignment and segregation of chromosomes. It also contributes to the maintenance of cell structure by stabilizing microtubules and ensuring proper cell morphology.
Recombinant Dynactin 2 (1-401 a.a.) is widely used in research to study the functions and mechanisms of the dynactin complex. It serves as a valuable tool for investigating the interactions between dynactin and dynein, as well as other cellular components involved in intracellular transport and mitosis. Researchers utilize this recombinant protein to elucidate the molecular basis of various diseases associated with defects in the dynactin-dynein pathway, such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancer.