Recombinant Proteins
Product List
PCNA Human
Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen Human Recombinant
PCNA Human Recombinant produced in E.Coli is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 261 amino acids (1-261 a.a) and having a molecular mass of 28.7kDa. PCNA is purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
PCNA Human, Sf9
Proliferating Cell Antigen Human Recombinant, Sf9
PCNA is expressed with a -6xHis tag and purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Introduction
Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) is a DNA clamp that acts as a processivity factor for DNA polymerase δ in eukaryotic cells, essential for DNA replication . PCNA is a homotrimer, meaning it forms a ring-shaped structure composed of three identical subunits . It is classified under the DNA sliding clamp family, which also includes the E. coli DNA polymerase III β-subunit and the phage T4 gene45 protein .
Key Biological Properties: PCNA forms a homotrimeric ring that encircles DNA, allowing it to slide along the DNA duplex . This structure is crucial for its role in DNA replication and repair.
Expression Patterns: PCNA is expressed in the nuclei of cells during the DNA synthesis phase of the cell cycle . It is ubiquitously present in dividing cells across various tissues.
Tissue Distribution: PCNA is found in all eukaryotic species and is highly conserved across different organisms, including yeast, plants, animals, and archaea .
Primary Biological Functions: PCNA is essential for DNA replication, acting as a processivity factor for DNA polymerase δ and ε . It also plays a critical role in DNA repair, chromatin remodeling, and epigenetics .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: While PCNA’s primary functions are related to DNA metabolism, it also interacts with various proteins involved in cell cycle regulation and immune responses .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: PCNA interacts with multiple proteins through two known motifs: the PCNA-interacting peptide (PIP) box and the AlkB homologue 2 PCNA interacting motif (APIM) . These interactions are crucial for its role in DNA replication and repair.
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: PCNA binds to DNA polymerases and other DNA editing enzymes, anchoring them to the DNA . It also interacts with regulatory proteins involved in various cellular processes .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: PCNA expression is regulated by E2F transcription factor-containing complexes . Post-translational modifications, such as ubiquitination, play a key role in regulating its functions .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: PCNA is ubiquitinated in response to DNA damage, which is crucial for its role in the RAD6-dependent DNA repair pathway .
Biomedical Research: PCNA is widely used as a marker for cell proliferation in cancer research and other studies involving cell division .
Diagnostic Tools: PCNA levels are often measured to assess cell proliferation rates in various diseases, including cancer .
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting PCNA interactions and its regulatory mechanisms offers potential therapeutic opportunities in cancer treatment .
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: PCNA is essential from the early stages of development, ensuring proper DNA replication and cell division . Its role continues throughout life, contributing to DNA repair and maintenance of genomic stability . Dysregulation of PCNA functions can lead to aging-related diseases and cancer .
