HCV NS3 Genotype-3a
Escherichia Coli.
Sterile Filtered clear solution.
Protein is >95% pure as determined by 12% PAGE (coomassie staining).
Description
Recombinant Hepatitis C Virus NS3 Genotype-3a produced in E. coli, containing 236 amino acids. Recombinant Hepatitis C Virus NS3 Genotype-3a is fused to a 6xHis tag at its C-terminus and purified by proprietary chromatographic technique.
Product Specs
Escherichia Coli.
Product Science Overview
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a significant global health concern, infecting over 71 million people worldwide. It is a leading cause of chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family. The virus exhibits considerable genetic diversity, classified into seven major genotypes and numerous subtypes. Genotype 3a is one of the most prevalent and clinically significant genotypes, particularly in South Asia and parts of Europe.
The non-structural protein 3 (NS3) of HCV is a multifunctional enzyme with protease and helicase activities. The NS3 protease is responsible for cleaving the HCV polyprotein into functional units, essential for viral replication. The helicase activity of NS3 unwinds RNA, facilitating the replication process. Due to its critical role in the viral life cycle, NS3 is a prime target for antiviral drug development.
Recombinant NS3 proteins are produced through genetic engineering techniques, where the NS3 gene from HCV genotype 3a is cloned and expressed in a suitable host system, such as Escherichia coli. These recombinant proteins are used for various research purposes, including the development of diagnostic assays, vaccine candidates, and antiviral drugs.
The preparation of recombinant NS3 genotype-3a involves several steps:
- Gene Amplification: The NS3 gene is amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from the viral RNA extracted from infected patients.
- Cloning: The amplified gene is inserted into a plasmid vector, which is then introduced into a host cell, typically E. coli.
- Expression: The host cells are cultured under conditions that induce the expression of the NS3 protein.
- Purification: The expressed NS3 protein is purified using techniques such as affinity chromatography.
Recombinant NS3 genotype-3a proteins have several important applications:
- Diagnostic Assays: These proteins are used to develop enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) for the serological diagnosis of HCV infection.
- Vaccine Development: The antigenic properties of NS3 make it a potential candidate for vaccine development.
- Antiviral Drug Screening: Recombinant NS3 proteins are used to screen for inhibitors that can block the protease or helicase activities, leading to the development of new antiviral drugs.
