DDT Mouse

D-Dopachrome Tautomerase (D-DT), also known as D-dopachrome decarboxylase, is an enzyme that plays a significant role in various biological processes. It is a protein-coding gene found in mice and is homologous to the human DDT gene. This enzyme is involved in the tautomerization of D-dopachrome to 5,6-dihydroxyindole (DHI), a key step in the melanin biosynthesis pathway.

The Ddt gene is located on chromosome 10 in mice, specifically at the position 75607067-75609208 bp on the negative strand . The gene encodes a protein that shares structural and functional similarities with the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), another important cytokine involved in immune responses .

D-DT is known to bind to the CD74 receptor with high affinity, leading to the activation of ERK1/2 MAP kinase and downstream proinflammatory pathways . This binding and subsequent activation play a crucial role in the immune response, particularly in the regulation of inflammation. The enzyme is also highly expressed in murine cardiomyocytes and is secreted by the heart after ischemic stress, indicating its protective role in cardiac function .

Recombinant D-DT is produced using various expression systems, including bacterial, yeast, and mammalian cells. The recombinant protein is often used in research to study its function and potential therapeutic applications. The production process involves cloning the Ddt gene into an expression vector, transforming the host cells, and purifying the expressed protein.

Research has shown that D-DT levels correlate with disease severity in conditions such as sepsis and malignancy . The enzyme’s role in immune regulation and its protective effects in cardiac function make it a potential target for therapeutic interventions. Additionally, the study of recombinant D-DT helps in understanding its physiological and pathological roles, providing insights into the development of new treatments for inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases.