FN3KRP is encoded by the FN3KRP gene. This gene is located on chromosome 17 in humans and is closely related to the fructosamine-3-kinase (FN3K) gene. While FN3K specifically targets fructosamines, FN3KRP has a broader substrate specificity, targeting psicosamines and ribulosamines . The protein consists of 309 amino acids and has a molecular mass of approximately 36 kDa .
The primary function of FN3KRP is to catalyze the phosphorylation of glycated proteins. This phosphorylation leads to the formation of unstable intermediates, which subsequently decompose under physiological conditions, effectively removing the glycated residues from the proteins . This process is essential for maintaining protein function and preventing the accumulation of glycated proteins, which can be detrimental to cellular functions.
FN3KRP’s role in deglycation has significant implications for conditions such as diabetes, where high blood glucose levels lead to increased protein glycation. By removing glycated residues, FN3KRP may help mitigate some of the complications associated with diabetes . Research is ongoing to explore the potential therapeutic applications of FN3KRP in managing diabetic complications and other conditions involving protein glycation.
Recombinant human FN3KRP is produced using Escherichia coli (E. coli) expression systems. The recombinant protein is typically purified to high levels of purity, often exceeding 90%, and is used in various research applications . The recombinant form is also tagged with a His-tag to facilitate purification and detection .
FN3KRP is a subject of extensive research due to its role in protein deglycation. Studies are focused on understanding its mechanism of action, substrate specificity, and potential therapeutic applications. The recombinant form of FN3KRP is used in various assays to study its activity and interactions with other proteins .