Recombinant Proteins
Product List
PVALB Human
Parvalbumin Human Recombinant
Introduction
Parvalbumin (PV) is a small, calcium-binding protein with a low molecular weight, typically ranging from 9-11 kDa . It belongs to the albumin family and is encoded by the PVALB gene in humans . Parvalbumin is characterized by its three EF-hand motifs, which are helix-loop-helix structures that bind calcium ions . It is structurally related to other calcium-binding proteins such as calmodulin and troponin C .
Key Biological Properties: Parvalbumin is a stable protein involved in calcium signaling. It contains EF-hand type calcium-binding sites and is involved in various physiological processes .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Parvalbumin is predominantly found in fast-contracting muscles, where its levels are highest . It is also expressed in the brain, particularly in certain neurons, and in some endocrine tissues . In humans, it is expressed in the cerebellum, visual cortex, frontal lobe, and various muscles .
Primary Biological Functions: Parvalbumin acts as a mobile cytosolic calcium buffer, influencing the duration of intracellular calcium signals . It plays a crucial role in muscle relaxation following contraction and neuronal recovery following excitation .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While parvalbumin’s primary functions are related to calcium buffering and muscle relaxation, its role in immune responses and pathogen recognition is not well-documented. However, its involvement in calcium signaling suggests it may indirectly influence immune cell functions .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Parvalbumin interacts with calcium ions, binding them through its EF-hand motifs . This binding helps regulate intracellular calcium levels, which is essential for various cellular processes .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Parvalbumin primarily acts as a calcium buffer, modulating the availability of calcium ions for other signaling molecules and pathways . It does not have specific target proteins but influences calcium-dependent processes .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression of parvalbumin is regulated at the transcriptional level by various factors that respond to cellular calcium levels . Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, may also influence its activity .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: Parvalbumin’s gene expression is controlled by transcription factors that respond to changes in intracellular calcium concentrations . Post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, can alter its calcium-binding affinity and stability .
Biomedical Research: Parvalbumin is used as a marker for specific neuron types in neuroscience research . Its role in calcium signaling makes it a valuable tool for studying muscle physiology and neuronal function .
Diagnostic Tools: Parvalbumin can be used as a biomarker for certain neurological conditions and muscle disorders . Its expression patterns help identify specific cell types and tissues in diagnostic assays .
Therapeutic Strategies: Understanding parvalbumin’s role in calcium signaling can lead to potential therapeutic strategies for conditions involving calcium dysregulation, such as muscle spasms and certain neurological disorders .
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: Parvalbumin plays a critical role in muscle function and neuronal activity throughout the life cycle . During development, it helps regulate muscle contraction and relaxation . In aging, changes in parvalbumin expression may contribute to age-related muscle and neuronal decline .
From Development to Aging and Disease: Parvalbumin’s involvement in calcium signaling is essential from early development through aging . Its dysregulation can lead to various diseases, including muscle disorders and neurological conditions .
