GDF11 Human, His

GDF11 is a recombinant protein produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli). The recombinant form is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 132 amino acids, with a molecular mass of approximately 14.8 kDa. The protein is fused to a 23 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus, which facilitates purification through chromatographic techniques .

GDF11 plays a crucial role in embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. It is involved in the regulation of:

• Skeletal system development
• Neural development
• Cardiac hypertrophy reversal by promoting the rejuvenation of cardiomyocytes .

In adults, GDF11 has been shown to have a rejuvenating effect on various tissues, including skeletal muscle, pancreas, kidney, nervous system, and retina .

GDF11 functions as a cytokine and binds to the Transforming Growth Factor Beta receptors. This binding initiates a signaling cascade that regulates gene expression and cellular responses. The protein’s sequence is highly conserved across species, including humans, mice, and rats .

The recombinant form of GDF11 is widely used in:

• Cell culture studies
• Differentiation studies
• Functional assays

It is optimized for use in various experimental setups and has cross-reactivity with mouse and rat cells .

For optimal stability, GDF11 should be stored at 4°C if used within 2-4 weeks. For longer storage, it is recommended to keep the protein frozen at -20°C, with the addition of a carrier protein to prevent degradation. Avoiding multiple freeze-thaw cycles is crucial to maintain the protein’s integrity .