NME1 Human

NME1 was first identified in the late 1980s as a gene associated with non-metastatic cells. It was initially named nm23 due to its discovery in non-metastatic murine melanoma cells. The human homolog of nm23 was later identified and named NME1. Over time, NME1 has been referred to by various names, including AWD, GAAD, Granzyme A-activated DNase, Metastasis Inhibition Factor nm23, NB, NBS, NDK A, NDP Kinase A, NDPKA, NDPK-A, NM23, nm23-H1, NME1, and Tumor Metastatic Process-Associated Protein .

NME1 is a 152-amino acid protein with a molecular weight of approximately 17 kDa. It functions as a nucleoside diphosphate kinase, catalyzing the transfer of phosphate groups from nucleoside triphosphates to nucleoside diphosphates. This enzymatic activity is essential for maintaining the balance of cellular nucleotide pools, which is critical for DNA synthesis and repair, as well as other cellular processes.

In addition to its kinase activity, NME1 has been shown to possess other functions, including:

• DNA Binding and Cleavage: NME1 can bind to DNA and induce DNA cleavage, which is important for its role in apoptosis and cellular stress responses.
• Regulation of Gene Expression: NME1 can interact with various transcription factors and influence gene expression, thereby affecting cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
• Metastasis Suppression: NME1 is best known for its role in inhibiting metastasis. It has been shown to suppress the metastatic potential of various cancer cell lines, making it a potential target for cancer therapy.

Recombinant NME1 is produced using advanced biotechnological methods. The gene encoding NME1 is cloned into an expression vector, which is then introduced into a suitable host cell, such as Escherichia coli or Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells. The host cells are cultured under optimal conditions to express the recombinant protein, which is subsequently purified using techniques such as affinity chromatography and gel filtration.

NME1 has several applications in both basic research and clinical settings:

• Cancer Research: NME1 is extensively studied for its role in cancer metastasis. Researchers use recombinant NME1 to investigate its mechanisms of action and to develop potential therapeutic strategies for inhibiting metastasis.
• Drug Development: NME1 is a potential target for anti-cancer drugs. Compounds that modulate NME1 activity are being explored for their therapeutic potential in preventing or reducing metastasis.
• Diagnostic Marker: NME1 levels can serve as a biomarker for certain types of cancer. Elevated levels of NME1 have been associated with a better prognosis in some cancers, making it a valuable tool for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.