Introduction
Interleukin 13 (IL-13) is a cytokine primarily secreted by activated Th2 cells, playing a crucial role in regulating immune responses. IL-13 is involved in multiple stages of B cell development, including maturation and differentiation. It enhances the expression of CD23 and MHC class II molecules on B cells, facilitating their activation and antigen presentation. Moreover, IL-13 promotes immunoglobulin class switching to IgE, a process crucial for allergic responses. Conversely, IL-13 exerts suppressive effects on macrophages, leading to a reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, thereby dampening excessive inflammation. While IL-13 is recognized as a critical mediator in allergen-induced asthma, its underlying mechanisms extend beyond its interactions with IgE and eosinophils. Notably, the genes encoding IL-13, IL3, IL5, IL4, and CSF2 are clustered together on chromosome 5q, with IL-13 positioned closely to IL4, suggesting potential functional relationships and coordinated regulation.
Description
Recombinant Mouse Interleukin-13, expressed in E. coli, is a non-glycosylated polypeptide chain consisting of 111 amino acids. With a molecular weight of 12.3 kDa, this protein is purified using proprietary chromatographic techniques to ensure high purity and activity.
Physical Appearance
Sterile White Lyophilized Powder
Formulation
The lyophilized Interleukin-13 protein is provided at a concentration of 1 mg/ml in a buffer consisting of PBS (pH 7.2) and 5% trehalose.
Solubility
To reconstitute lyophilized Interleukin-13, it is recommended to dissolve the protein in sterile 18 MΩ-cm H2O to a concentration of at least 100 µg/ml. This solution can be further diluted in other aqueous solutions as needed.
Stability
Lyophilized Interleukin-13 exhibits stability at room temperature for a period of 3 weeks. However, for long-term storage, it is recommended to store the lyophilized protein in a desiccated state below -18°C. After reconstitution, Interleukin-13 should be stored at 4°C for up to 7 days. For extended storage, it is advisable to add a carrier protein such as HSA or BSA (0.1%) to the solution and store it below -18°C. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided to maintain protein integrity and activity.
Purity
The purity of Interleukin-13 is determined to be greater than 95% using SDS-PAGE analysis.
Biological Activity
The biological activity of Interleukin-13 is measured by its ability to induce the proliferation of TF-1 cells. The ED50, representing the concentration at which 50% of the maximal proliferative response is observed, falls within the range of 4 ng/ml. This corresponds to a specific activity of 250,000 IU/mg.
Protein Content
The protein content of Interleukin-13 is quantified using two independent methods: 1) UV spectroscopy at 280 nm, employing an extinction coefficient of 0.69 for a 0.1% (1 mg/ml) solution, calculated using the PC GENE computer analysis program; and 2) Reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), utilizing a calibrated solution of Interleukin-13 as a reference standard.
Synonyms
Interleukin-13, NC300, ALRH, BHR1, P600, IL-13, IL13.
Amino Acid Sequence
MPVPRSVSLP LTLKELIEEL SNITQDQTPL CNGSMVWSVD LAAGGFCVAL DSLTNISNCN AIYRTQRILH GLCNRKAPTT VSSLPDTKIE VAHFITKLLS YTKQLFRHGP F.