Dynactin 2 is a 50 kDa subunit that is present in 4-5 copies per dynactin molecule . It is composed of three short alpha-helical coiled-coil domains, which facilitate its association with other dynactin subunits . The human recombinant form of Dynactin 2 (1-403 a.a.) is produced in Escherichia coli and is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 426 amino acids (1-403 a.a.) with a molecular mass of 46.9 kDa . This recombinant protein is fused to a 23 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus and is purified using proprietary chromatographic techniques .
Dynactin 2 plays a pivotal role in the dynactin complex by binding to both microtubules and cytoplasmic dynein . This interaction is essential for various cellular functions, including:
Dynactin 2 directly interacts with the largest subunit (p150) of the dynactin complex, anchoring it in place and modulating cytoplasmic dynein binding to organelles . It also plays a role in prometaphase chromosome alignment and spindle organization during mitosis . Additionally, Dynactin 2 is involved in anchoring microtubules to centrosomes and has a role in synapse formation during brain development .
The recombinant Dynactin 2 protein is provided as a sterile filtered colorless solution. It is formulated in a solution containing 20 mM Tris-HCl (pH 8.0), 10% glycerol, 0.15 M NaCl, and 1 mM DTT . The protein should be stored at 4°C if it will be used within 2-4 weeks. For longer storage, it should be frozen at -20°C, and it is recommended to add a carrier protein (0.1% HSA or BSA) to avoid multiple freeze-thaw cycles .