EPYC Human

Epiphycan, also known as dermatan sulfate proteoglycan 3 (DSPG3), is a member of the small leucine-rich proteoglycan (SLRP) family. This protein plays a significant role in the extracellular matrix, particularly in skeletal tissues such as the growth plate of long bones, articular cartilage, and intervertebral discs . The recombinant form of human epiphycan is produced using advanced biotechnological methods, often involving expression in HEK293 cells .

Epiphycan is composed of a core protein with attached glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains. The human recombinant form of epiphycan typically consists of a single, glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 309 amino acids, with a molecular mass of approximately 35.5 kDa . The protein is often fused to a His-tag at the C-terminus to facilitate purification .

Epiphycan is involved in various biological processes, primarily related to tissue development, repair, and homeostasis. It interacts with collagen fibrils and other extracellular matrix proteins, regulating fibrillogenesis and influencing cell behavior and tissue organization . The unique structure of epiphycan allows it to bind to growth factors, cytokines, and other matrix proteins, thereby modulating their activity and availability .

The involvement of epiphycan in tissue development and repair has highlighted its potential as a therapeutic target. Research suggests that epiphycan may play a role in bone formation and the establishment of the ordered structure of cartilage through matrix organization . Its ability to interact with various growth factors and cytokines makes it a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions in conditions related to tissue damage and repair .

Human recombinant epiphycan is produced using HEK293 cells, a widely used cell line for recombinant protein expression. The protein is purified using proprietary chromatographic techniques to achieve a purity greater than 95%, as determined by SDS-PAGE . The recombinant protein is typically formulated in a sterile, colorless solution containing glycerol and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at pH 7.4 .

For optimal stability, human recombinant epiphycan should be stored at 4°C if used within 2-4 weeks. For longer storage periods, it is recommended to freeze the protein at -20°C, with the addition of a carrier protein such as human serum albumin (HSA) or bovine serum albumin (BSA) to prevent degradation . It is important to avoid multiple freeze-thaw cycles to maintain the protein’s integrity and biological activity .