Anti-human PCBP1 mAb, clone PAT2A10AT, is derived from hybridization of mouse F0 myeloma cells with spleen cells from BALB/c mice immunized with a recombinant human PCBP1 protein 1-163 amino acids purified from E. coli.
Poly (rC) Binding Protein 1 (PCBP1) is a multifunctional protein that plays a crucial role in various cellular processes. It is known for its ability to bind to polycytosine (poly (rC)) sequences in RNA and DNA, influencing gene expression, RNA stability, and translation. This article delves into the background, functions, and significance of PCBP1, particularly focusing on its role in human and mouse models.
PCBP1 was first cloned from a human lymphocyte cDNA library in 1994 . It has a relative molecular weight of 38 kDa and is characterized by its ability to bind to RNA and DNA. The protein contains three KH (K-homology) domains, which are responsible for its nucleic acid-binding properties. These domains enable PCBP1 to interact with various RNA and DNA sequences, thereby regulating multiple cellular processes.
One of the critical functions of PCBP1 is its role as a cytosolic iron chaperone. It binds and transfers iron to recipient proteins in mammalian cells, ensuring proper iron distribution and utilization . In the liver, PCBP1 is essential for maintaining iron homeostasis. Mice lacking PCBP1 in hepatocytes exhibit defects in liver iron regulation, leading to conditions such as hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and degeneration .
PCBP1 has been identified as a tumor suppressor in various cancer types. It is often downregulated in cancers, and its reduced expression is associated with tumorigenesis, development, and metastasis . PCBP1 regulates gene transcription, alternative splicing, and translation of many cancer-related genes. Its role in the hypoxic microenvironment, autophagy, apoptosis, and chemotherapy of cancer cells is also being extensively studied .
Research on PCBP1 continues to uncover its multifaceted roles in cellular processes and disease mechanisms. Studies have shown that PCBP1 is involved in immune responses and may play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and ferroptosis . The protein’s ability to regulate iron homeostasis and its tumor-suppressive properties make it a potential target for therapeutic interventions in diseases such as cancer and iron-related disorders.