Glucagon Receptor Human Recombinant
GCGR Human Recombinant produced in E. coli is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain (a.a 29-142) containing 125 amino acids including an 8 a.a C-terminal His tag. The total molecular mass is 19.9kDa (calculated).
E. coli
Glucagon Human
Glucagon Human Recombinant
Glucagon Human Recombinant, His Tag
Key Biological Properties: Glucagon is a 29-amino acid polypeptide with a molecular mass of 3485 daltons . It is synthesized from the preproglucagon gene (GCG) and undergoes post-translational modifications to become biologically active .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Glucagon is primarily produced in the alpha cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas . It is also produced in the stomach and, to a lesser extent, in the gut . The hormone is secreted in response to low blood glucose levels, prolonged fasting, exercise, and protein-rich meals .
Primary Biological Functions: Glucagon’s main function is to increase blood glucose levels by promoting glycogenolysis (the breakdown of glycogen to glucose) and gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) in the liver . It also inhibits glycogenesis (the formation of glycogen from glucose) and promotes lipolysis (the breakdown of fats) in adipose tissue .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While glucagon’s primary role is in glucose metabolism, it indirectly supports immune function by ensuring adequate energy supply during immune responses .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Glucagon binds to specific glucagon receptors on the cell membrane, which are G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) . This binding activates adenylate cyclase, increasing intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: The increase in cAMP activates protein kinase A (PKA), which phosphorylates and activates various enzymes involved in glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis . This cascade ensures the rapid mobilization of glucose into the bloodstream .
Control of Expression and Activity: Glucagon secretion is tightly regulated by blood glucose levels. Low glucose levels stimulate glucagon release, while high glucose levels inhibit it .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: The preproglucagon gene undergoes transcriptional regulation to produce proglucagon, which is then cleaved by proprotein convertase 2 to form active glucagon . Post-translational modifications, such as cleavage, are essential for its activation .
Biomedical Research: Glucagon is used in research to study metabolic pathways and glucose homeostasis .
Diagnostic Tools: Synthetic glucagon is used in diagnostic tests to assess pancreatic function and in radiologic exams to inhibit gastrointestinal motility .
Therapeutic Strategies: Glucagon injections are used to treat severe hypoglycemia in diabetic patients . It is also being explored for its potential in weight management and metabolic disorders .