Introduction
Fetuin is a negative acute-phase protein produced by the liver, consisting of two subunits: A and B chains. Homologs of fetuin have been found in various species, such as rats, sheep, pigs, rabbits, guinea pigs, cattle, mice, and humans. These homologs are believed to have multiple physiological functions, including the ability to bind to hydroxyapatite crystals and inhibit the tyrosine kinase (TK) activity of the insulin receptor (IR). Fetuin-A (alpha2-Heremans-Schmid glycoprotein; AHSG), a crucial circulating inhibitor of calcification in vivo, experiences downregulation during the acute-phase response. Sera obtained from patients undergoing long-term dialysis, who typically exhibit low AHSG concentrations, demonstrated a reduced capacity to inhibit CaxPO4 precipitation ex vivo. Fetuin might play a role in inflammation resolution by influencing the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells by macrophages. Additionally, ASHG has been shown to impede TGF-beta-dependent signaling in osteoblastic cells, and mice deficient in ASHG exhibit growth plate abnormalities, increased bone formation with age, and enhanced cytokine-dependent osteogenesis.
Description
Human Alpha-2-HS-Glycoprotein, comprising 349 amino acids, was purified from human plasma. The calculated molecular mass, excluding glycosylation, is 37.3 kDa.
Physical Appearance
White lyophilized powder that has undergone filtration.
Formulation
The protein solution, at a concentration of 0.5 mg/ml in 20 mM Tris buffer with 200 mM NaCl at pH 8.0, was filtered through a 0.4 μm filter and subsequently lyophilized.
Solubility
To prepare a working stock solution of approximately 0.5 mg/ml, it is advised to add deionized water to the lyophilized pellet and allow it to dissolve completely. Please note that this product is not sterile. Before using it in cell culture, it is essential to filter the product through an appropriate sterile filter.
Stability
The lyophilized protein should be stored at -20°C. After reconstitution, it is recommended to aliquot the product to minimize repeated freeze-thaw cycles. While the reconstituted protein can be stored at 4°C for a limited time, it is important to note that it does not exhibit any changes after two weeks at this temperature.
Purity
SDS-PAGE analysis has determined the purity to be greater than 95%.
Synonyms
Alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein, Fetuin-A, Alpha-2-Z-globulin, Ba-alpha-2-glycoprotein, AHSG, FETUA, AHS, A2HS, HSGA, PRO2743.
Source
Purified from the human plasma.