GFAP Bovine

Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) is a type of intermediate filament protein that is primarily expressed in astrocytes, a type of glial cell in the central nervous system (CNS). GFAP plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and function of astrocytes. The bovine version of GFAP is derived from cattle and is used extensively in research due to its similarity to human GFAP.

GFAP was first identified in the late 1960s and has since become a classical marker for astroglia . Over the years, extensive research has been conducted to understand its structure, function, and role in various neurological conditions. GFAP is encoded by the GFAP gene in cattle and is a soluble protein that forms part of the cytoskeleton within cells .

GFAP belongs to the type III intermediate filament (IF) protein family. It is composed of several isoforms, which are produced through alternative splicing of the GFAP gene. The protein has a predicted molecular weight of approximately 52 kDa and is typically found in a lyophilized form for research purposes .

The primary functions of GFAP include:

• Maintaining Astrocyte Morphology: GFAP helps maintain the specific morphology of astrocytes, which is essential for their function in the CNS .
• Cell Migration: GFAP plays a role in the migration of astrocytes during CNS development and in response to injury .
• Cytoskeletal Stability: GFAP contributes to the stability of the cytoskeleton in astrocytes, which is crucial for their structural integrity .
• Cellular Signaling: Emerging research suggests that GFAP is involved in cellular signaling and modulation of neuron-to-glia interactions .

GFAP is a key player in the development of reactive astrocytosis, a typical response of the CNS to injury. Overexpression or suppression of GFAP biosynthesis is associated with various neurological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases . Quantitative estimation of GFAP and its breakdown products, as well as anti-GFAP autoantibodies in biological fluids, are used as significant criteria in the diagnosis of neurodegenerative pathologies .

Bovine GFAP is widely used in research to study the structure and function of astrocytes, as well as their role in neurological conditions. It is available in various forms, including lyophilized powder, and is used in a range of experimental setups .