Introduction
Fibroblast growth factor 16 (FGF16) belongs to the extensive family of fibroblast growth factors. These factors share the characteristic of binding to heparin and possess a core FGF domain comprising 120 amino acids, contributing to their conserved tertiary structure. In humans, FGF16 is initially translated as a precursor protein of 207 amino acids, containing a single site for N-linked glycosylation. Despite lacking a typical signal peptide, FGF16 demonstrates efficient production through alternative mechanisms that deviate from the conventional protein secretion pathway. Notably, FGF16 expression is observed in cardiac cells, highlighting its crucial role in the intricate process of heart development. Furthermore, mutations in the FGF16 gene have been linked to individuals exhibiting metacarpal 4-5 fusion. FGF16 emerges as a pivotal regulator of embryonic development, exerting control over cell proliferation and differentiation. Its significance is underscored by its indispensable role in ensuring normal cardiomyocyte proliferation and overall heart development.
Description
Recombinant human FGF16, produced in E. coli, is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain consisting of 206 amino acids, with a molecular weight of 23.6 kDa. This FGF-16 variant is purified using proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Physical Appearance
A clear, colorless solution that has been sterilized by filtration.
Formulation
FGF-16 is supplied as a 0.2 μm filtered solution in 20mM Tris-HCl buffer (pH 9.0) containing 1M NaCl, 0.2% Tween-20, and 10% glycerol.
Stability
For short-term storage (up to 2-4 weeks), the product should be kept refrigerated at 4°C. For extended storage, it is recommended to freeze the product at -20°C. To further enhance stability during long-term storage, the addition of a carrier protein (either HSA or BSA) to a final concentration of 0.1% is advisable. Repeated freezing and thawing cycles should be avoided.
Purity
The purity of this product is greater than 98.0%, as determined by two analytical methods: (a) Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and (b) Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE).
Biological Activity
The ED50, determined by a thymidine uptake assay using BaF3 cells transfected with FGF receptors, is less than 0.5 ng/mL. This corresponds to a specific activity greater than 2.0 x 10^6 IU/mg.
Synonyms
Fibroblast Growth Factor 16, Metacarpal 4-5 Fusion, FGF-16, MF4, FGF16.
Amino Acid Sequence
AEVGGVFASL DWDLHGFSSS LGNVPLADSP GFLNERLGQI EGKLQRGSPT DFAHLKGILR RRQLYCRTGF HLEIFPNGTV HGTRHDHSRF GILEFISLAV GLISIRGVDS GLYLGMNERG ELYGSKKLTR ECVFREQFEE NWYNTYASTL YKHSDSERQY YVALNKDGSP REGYRTKRHQ KFTHFLPRPV DPSKLPSMSR DLFHYR.