PCNA Human
Greater than 95% as determined by SDS-PAGE.
Description
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.
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
PCNA forms a homotrimeric ring that encircles the DNA double helix, allowing it to slide along the DNA. This sliding mechanism is vital for its role as a processivity factor for DNA polymerase delta and epsilon . The homotrimeric structure of PCNA ensures that it can tightly bind to DNA and facilitate the rapid and efficient replication of the genome.
PCNA is central to both DNA replication and repair. During DNA replication, PCNA acts as a scaffold that recruits and stabilizes various proteins involved in the replication process. It interacts with DNA polymerases and other DNA-editing enzymes through a sequence motif known as the PCNA Interacting Protein box (PIP-box) . This interaction is crucial for the coordination and regulation of DNA synthesis.
In addition to its role in replication, PCNA is also involved in DNA repair mechanisms. It participates in the repair of DNA damage by interacting with proteins involved in the DNA damage response. This makes PCNA a key player in maintaining genomic stability and preventing mutations that could lead to diseases such as cancer .
PCNA undergoes several post-translational modifications that expand its functional repertoire. These modifications include ubiquitylation, sumoylation, acetylation, phosphorylation, and nitrosylation . Each modification can alter PCNA’s interactions with other proteins and its role in cellular processes. For example, ubiquitylation of PCNA is associated with the recruitment of translesion synthesis polymerases, which are involved in bypassing DNA lesions during replication.
Recombinant PCNA is produced using genetic engineering techniques, where the PCNA gene is cloned and expressed in a suitable host organism, such as bacteria or yeast. This allows for the production of large quantities of PCNA for research and therapeutic purposes. Recombinant PCNA retains the structural and functional properties of the native protein, making it a valuable tool for studying DNA replication and repair mechanisms in vitro .
Due to its central role in cell proliferation and DNA repair, PCNA is considered a potential target for therapeutic interventions. In cancer, where cell proliferation is dysregulated, targeting PCNA could help in controlling tumor growth. Additionally, PCNA’s involvement in DNA repair pathways makes it a candidate for enhancing the efficacy of DNA-damaging agents used in cancer therapy .
