The HSP-70 Cofactor (HSP24) E.Coli Recombinant, also known as GrpE, is a crucial protein in the cellular stress response system of Escherichia coli (E. coli). This protein plays a significant role in the heat shock response, which is a universal mechanism that cells employ to cope with elevated temperatures and other stress conditions.
GrpE functions as a co-chaperone in association with the DnaK-DnaJ chaperone system. This system is essential for the proper folding of proteins, especially under stress conditions. GrpE acts as a nucleotide exchange factor for DnaK, facilitating the release of ADP and the binding of ATP, which is a critical step in the chaperone cycle .
One of the unique features of GrpE is its potential role as a thermosensor. It actively participates in the response to hyperosmotic and heat shock conditions by preventing the aggregation of stress-denatured proteins . Several rounds of ATP-dependent interactions between DnaJ, DnaK, and GrpE are required for fully efficient protein folding .
The heat shock response is vital for cell survival under stress conditions. GrpE, as part of the HSP-70 chaperone system, helps maintain protein homeostasis by ensuring that proteins fold correctly and do not aggregate. This function is particularly important in environments where cells are exposed to fluctuating temperatures and other stressors .