GDF5 Human, His

The human recombinant GDF5 with a His Tag is produced in E. coli as a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 141 amino acids (residues 382-501) and has a total molecular mass of approximately 15.8 kDa . The His Tag, consisting of 20 amino acids, is fused to the N-terminus of the protein to facilitate purification using chromatographic techniques .

GDF5 is primarily involved in the development and maintenance of bone and cartilage. It regulates the differentiation of chondrogenic tissue through two main pathways:

1. Binding to BMPR1B: GDF5 binds with high affinity to the Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptor Type 1B (BMPR1B), leading to the induction of SMAD1-SMAD5-SMAD8 complex phosphorylation and subsequent SMAD protein signaling transduction .
2. Binding to BMPR1A: GDF5 also binds to BMPR1A with less affinity, contributing to the regulation of chondrogenic differentiation .

Mutations in the GDF5 gene are associated with several skeletal disorders, including:

• Acromesomelic Dysplasia: A condition characterized by short stature and limb abnormalities.
• Brachydactyly: A condition involving shortened fingers and toes.
• Chondrodysplasia: A disorder affecting cartilage development.
• Multiple Synostoses Syndrome: A condition involving the fusion of bones.
• Proximal Symphalangism: A condition characterized by the fusion of the proximal interphalangeal joints.
• Osteoarthritis Susceptibility: Variants in the GDF5 gene have been linked to an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis .

Recombinant GDF5 is used in various research and therapeutic applications, including:

• Bone and Cartilage Repair: Due to its role in bone and cartilage formation, GDF5 is investigated for its potential in treating bone fractures and cartilage injuries.
• Tissue Engineering: GDF5 is used in the development of tissue-engineered constructs for regenerative medicine.
• Drug Development: GDF5 serves as a target for developing new drugs aimed at treating skeletal disorders and enhancing bone and cartilage regeneration.

The recombinant GDF5 protein is typically stored at -20°C for long-term storage and at 4°C if used within 2-4 weeks. It is recommended to add a carrier protein, such as 0.1% HSA or BSA, to prevent multiple freeze-thaw cycles .