Recombinant human IL-3 produced in insect cells (Sf9) is a single, glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 133 amino acids and has a molecular mass of approximately 15,000 Daltons . The recombinant protein is often fused to a C-terminal His Tag (6x His) to facilitate purification through chromatographic techniques .
IL-3 is known for its diverse biological functions, primarily in the bone marrow where it regulates hematopoiesis. It stimulates the myeloproliferation of hematopoietic stem cells during inflammatory responses . However, IL-3 is not essential for steady-state hematopoiesis, indicating its role is more prominent during periods of increased demand for blood cell production .
Beyond the bone marrow, IL-3 has been implicated in various immune responses. Recent studies have shown that IL-3 can act as a molecular messenger between the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral immune system . In the brain, IL-3 is produced by astrocytes and plays a role in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. It has been found to instigate microglial immune reactivity, chemotaxis, and motility, which are essential for the clearance of amyloid-beta plaques in Alzheimer’s disease .
Given its role in both hematopoiesis and neuroinflammation, IL-3 is being explored as a potential therapeutic target for various diseases. In the context of neurodegenerative disorders, IL-3’s ability to modulate microglial activity and promote the clearance of pathological proteins makes it a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions .