Introduction
Interleukin 13 (IL-13) is a regulatory cytokine primarily secreted by activated T helper 2 (Th2) cells. This protein plays a crucial role in B cell development, influencing their maturation and differentiation. IL-13 increases the expression of CD23 and MHC class II molecules on B cells, promoting their ability to present antigens to T cells. Additionally, it stimulates B cells to switch their antibody production to the IgE isotype, which is associated with allergic responses. IL-13 also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing macrophage activity, thereby reducing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. These molecules play a significant role in the development of allergic asthma, though the underlying mechanisms are independent of IgE and eosinophils. Notably, the genes encoding IL-13 (IL13), IL3, IL5, IL4, and CSF2 are clustered together on chromosome 5q, with IL13 located in close proximity to IL4.
Description
Recombinant human interleukin-13 variant is a single-chain polypeptide produced in E. Coli. This non-glycosylated protein consists of 114 amino acids and has a molecular weight of 12.5 kDa. The variant form differs from wild-type IL-13 by a single amino acid substitution at position 112, where arginine is replaced with glutamine (R112Q). Purification of the IL-13 variant is achieved using proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Physical Appearance
Sterile Filtered White lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder.
Formulation
The protein was lyophilized from a 0.2 μm filtered solution in 1x phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at pH 7.2, containing 5% trehalose.
Solubility
To reconstitute the lyophilized interleukin-13 variant, it is recommended to dissolve the powder in sterile 18 MΩ-cm H2O to a concentration of at least 100 μg/ml. This solution can then be further diluted in other aqueous solutions as needed.
Stability
Lyophilized interleukin-13 variant is stable at room temperature for up to 3 weeks. However, for long-term storage, it is recommended to store the lyophilized powder desiccated at or below -18°C. After reconstitution, IL-13 variant should be stored at 4°C for 2-7 days. For extended storage, it is advisable to add a carrier protein such as 0.1% human serum albumin (HSA) or bovine serum albumin (BSA). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Purity
The purity of the protein is greater than 95%, as determined by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis.
Biological Activity
The biological activity of the protein was evaluated based on its ability to induce the proliferation of TF-1 cells. The half-maximal effective concentration (ED50) was determined to be less than 1 ng/ml, corresponding to a specific activity greater than 1,000,000 units/mg. Notably, this IL-13 variant exhibits enhanced in vivo activity compared to wild-type IL-13.
Synonyms
Interleukin-13, NC30, ALRH, BHR1, P600, IL-13, MGC116786, MGC116788, MGC116789.
Amino Acid Sequence
SPGPVPPSTA LRELIEELVN ITQNQKAPLC NGSMVWSINL TAGMYCAALE SLINVSGCSA IEKTQRMLSG FCPHKVSAGQ FSSLHVRDTK IEVAQFVKDL LLHLKKLFRE GQFN.