HIV-1 NEF Biotin

HIV-1 Nef (Negative Regulatory Factor) is a 27 kDa protein that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and replication of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1). The recombinant biotin-labeled version of this protein is widely used in research to study its functions and interactions.

Nef is one of the first proteins expressed after HIV-1 infection. It is known for its pleiotropic effects, which include:

• Down-modulation of MHC-I molecules: This helps the virus evade the host’s immune response.
• Reduction of cell surface CD4 antigen: Nef interacts with the Src family kinase LCK to decrease CD4 levels, which is crucial for viral replication.
• Protection from apoptosis: Nef helps infected cells avoid programmed cell death, ensuring the survival of the virus until the next generation of virions is ready to be released .

The recombinant HIV-1 Nef protein is produced in Escherichia coli (E. coli) expression systems. The biotin labeling is achieved using NHS-biotin, which allows for easy detection and purification of the protein. The recombinant protein is typically purified using chromatographic techniques to achieve high purity levels .

The biotin-labeled Nef protein is used in various research applications, including:

• Western Blotting: To detect the presence of Nef in samples.
• ELISA: For quantifying Nef levels in different experimental conditions.
• Protein-Protein Interaction Studies: To investigate how Nef interacts with other cellular proteins .

The recombinant HIV-1 Nef biotin-labeled protein is usually supplied in a liquid form, stored in a buffer containing 1X PBS and 0.05% glycerol. It is shipped on dry ice and should be aliquoted and stored at -20°C upon delivery to avoid freeze-thaw cycles .