Introduction
Interleukin 13 (IL-13) is a cytokine primarily produced by activated T helper 2 (Th2) cells, known for its role in regulating immune responses. IL-13 plays a crucial role in B cell development by promoting their maturation and differentiation. It enhances the expression of CD23 and MHC class II molecules on B cells while also driving their switch to IgE antibody production. Additionally, IL-13 suppresses macrophage activity, leading to decreased production of pro-inflammatory molecules like cytokines and chemokines. This cytokine is considered a key player in the development of allergic asthma, acting through mechanisms independent of IgE and eosinophils. The genes encoding IL-13, IL3, IL5, IL4, and CSF2 are clustered together on chromosome 5q, with IL-13 located in close proximity to IL4.
Description
Recombinant Human Interleukin-13, expressed in E. coli, is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain. It consists of 112 amino acids, resulting in a molecular weight of 12 kDa. The purification process of IL-13 involves proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Physical Appearance
Sterile Filtered White lyophilized powder.
Formulation
The protein was lyophilized at a concentration of 1 mg/ml in a solution containing 1xPBS (pH 7.2) and 5% trehalose.
Solubility
To reconstitute the lyophilized Interleukin-13, it is recommended to dissolve it in sterile 18 MΩ-cm H2O to a concentration of at least 100 µg/ml. This solution can then be further diluted into other aqueous solutions as needed.
Stability
Lyophilized Interleukin-13 demonstrates stability at room temperature for a period of 3 weeks. However, for optimal long-term storage, it is recommended to store the lyophilized product in a desiccated state at a temperature below -18°C. Upon reconstitution, IL-13 should be stored at 4°C for a period of 2 to 7 days. For extended storage, it is advisable to store it at temperatures below -18°C. To enhance stability during long-term storage, the addition of a carrier protein such as HSA or BSA (0.1%) is recommended. It's important to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Purity
The purity of Interleukin-13 is determined using two methods: RP-HPLC analysis and SDS-PAGE analysis. The results confirm a purity greater than 95%.
Biological Activity
The biological activity of Interleukin-13 was assessed by measuring its ability to stimulate the proliferation of TF-1 cells. The ED50, which represents the concentration required to achieve half-maximal proliferation, was found to be less than 1 ng/ml. This corresponds to a specific activity exceeding 1 x 106 units/mg.
Protein Content
The protein content of Interleukin-13 is determined using two independent methods. The first method employs UV spectroscopy at 280 nm, utilizing an extinction coefficient of 0.57 for a 0.1% (1 mg/ml) solution. This value is derived from the analysis of protein sequences using the PC GENE computer analysis program (IntelliGenetics). The second method involves RP-HPLC analysis, comparing the sample to a calibrated solution of IL-13 as a reference standard.
Synonyms
NC30, ALRH, BHR1, P600, IL-13, MGC116786, MGC116788, MGC116789.
Amino Acid Sequence
GPVPPSTALRELIEELVNITQNQKAPLCNGSMVWSINLTAGMYCAALESLINVS
GCSAIEKTQRMLSGFCPHKVSAGQFSSLHVRDTKIEVAQFVKDLLLHLKKLFRE
GRFN.