Ovarian Tumor Suppressor Candidate 2 (OVCA2) is a protein that has garnered significant interest in the field of cancer research, particularly in relation to ovarian cancer. This protein is believed to play a crucial role in the suppression of tumor growth and progression in ovarian tissues. The recombinant form of this protein, referred to as Human Recombinant OVCA2, is utilized in various research and therapeutic applications to better understand its function and potential benefits.
OVCA2 is a protein encoded by the OVCA2 gene, which is located on chromosome 17. The protein consists of a specific sequence of amino acids that enable it to interact with other cellular components and perform its tumor-suppressing functions. The exact mechanism by which OVCA2 suppresses tumor growth is still under investigation, but it is believed to involve the regulation of cell cycle progression, apoptosis (programmed cell death), and DNA repair processes.
Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal gynecological malignancies, with a high rate of recurrence and poor prognosis. The identification of tumor suppressor genes, such as OVCA2, has provided valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying ovarian cancer development and progression. Studies have shown that the expression of OVCA2 is often reduced or lost in ovarian cancer tissues, suggesting that it plays a protective role against tumor formation.
Recombinant OVCA2 is produced using advanced biotechnological methods, where the OVCA2 gene is inserted into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the protein in large quantities. The recombinant protein is then purified and used in various research applications, including functional studies, drug development, and therapeutic interventions.
The OVCA2 solution typically contains 20mM Tris-HCl buffer (pH 8.0), 100mM NaCl, 1mM DTT, and 10% glycerol . This formulation ensures the stability and activity of the protein for experimental use.
Research on OVCA2 has focused on understanding its role in tumor suppression and exploring its potential as a therapeutic target. Some key areas of investigation include: