Introduction
Growth Differentiation Factor-7 (GDF-7), a protein belonging to the Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) family within the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-b) superfamily, exerts its biological effects by binding to a heterodimeric receptor complex. This complex consists of a type 1 receptor (BMPR-IB) and a type II receptor (BMPR-II or Activin RII), both of which are serine/threonine kinase receptors. Upon GDF-7 binding, Smad proteins are phosphorylated and activated, initiating downstream signaling. GDF-7 is implicated in various physiological processes, including the formation and repair of tendons and ligaments, regulation of bone formation, differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, differentiation of neuronal cells, and guidance of axon growth.
Description
Recombinant human GDF7, spanning amino acids 322 to 450, is produced in E. coli. This protein is a disulfide-linked homodimer, lacking glycosylation, and comprises a polypeptide chain of 129 amino acids. It has a molecular weight of 28 kDa. The purification of GDF-7 is achieved through proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Physical Appearance
The product appears as a white powder, obtained through sterile filtration and lyophilization (freeze-drying).
Formulation
Prior to lyophilization, the product is in a 0.2µm filtered solution of hydrochloric acid (HCl).
Solubility
To reconstitute the lyophilized GDF-7, it is recommended to dissolve it in sterile 18M-cm H2O at a concentration of at least 100µg/ml. This solution can be further diluted in other aqueous solutions as needed.
Stability
Lyophilized GDF7 remains stable at room temperature for up to 3 weeks, but for long-term storage, it should be kept desiccated at a temperature below -18°C. After reconstitution, GDF-7 should be stored at 4°C for a period of 2 to 7 days. For extended storage, freezing at -18°C is recommended. To enhance stability during long-term storage, it is advisable to add a carrier protein, such as 0.1% HSA or BSA. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided.
Purity
The purity of the product, as determined by SDS-PAGE analysis, is greater than 95.0%.
Biological Activity
The biological activity of GDF-7 is measured by its ability to induce alkaline phosphatase production in mouse ATDC5 cells. The ED50, which represents the concentration required for half-maximal induction, is less than 1.25µg/ml.
Synonyms
Growth Differentiation Factor 7, GDF-7, Growth/Differentiation Factor 7, BMP12, GDF7.
Amino Acid Sequence
TALAGTRTAQ GSGGGAGRGH GRRGRSRCSR KPLHVDFKEL GWDDWIIAPL DYEAYHCEGL CDFPLRSHLE PTNHAIIQTL LNSMAPDAAP ASCCVPARLS PISILYIDAA NNVVYKQYED MVVEACGCR.