Inhibin Beta C, Actv Beta-C Chain, IHBC, Inhibin Beta C Chain.
Inhibin Beta C, Actv Beta-C Chain, IHBC, Inhibin Beta C Chain.
The INHBC gene is located on chromosome 12 (12q13.3) in humans . The gene encodes the beta C chain of inhibin, which can form heterodimers with other inhibin subunits, such as beta A and beta B . The human recombinant form of Inhibin-Beta C Chain is produced in E. coli and consists of a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 139 amino acids, with a molecular mass of approximately 14.9 kDa .
Inhibins and activins, both members of the TGF-beta superfamily, have opposing actions. Inhibins inhibit the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) by the pituitary gland, while activins stimulate its secretion . The Inhibin-Beta C Chain forms homodimers and heterodimers, which are involved in regulating various functions such as hormone secretion, germ cell development, erythroid differentiation, insulin secretion, nerve cell survival, and bone growth .
The expression of Inhibin-Beta C Chain is predominant in adult liver and in conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia . Transgenic mice overexpressing the INHBC gene exhibit defects in the testis, liver, and prostate, indicating its significant role in these organs . Additionally, the INHBC gene is involved in pathways related to peptide hormone metabolism and protein metabolism .
The recombinant form of Inhibin-Beta C Chain is produced using proprietary chromatographic techniques. It is fused to a 23 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus to facilitate purification . This recombinant protein is used in various research applications to study its role in cellular processes and its potential therapeutic applications.