PVALB Human

Parvalbumin contains two EF-hand domains, which are helix-loop-helix structural motifs capable of binding calcium ions . These domains enable parvalbumin to act as a slow calcium buffer, accelerating the initial phase of calcium decay after an action potential . This function is crucial in regulating short-term synaptic plasticity and muscle relaxation after contraction .

Parvalbumin is expressed in specific subclasses of GABAergic interneurons, which are inhibitory neurons that play a key role in maintaining the balance between excitation and inhibition in the cortex and hippocampus . It is also found in the soma and processes of these neurons .

The role of parvalbumin in the nervous system is significant. It helps in the rapid clearance of calcium ions, which is essential for the proper functioning of neurons and muscle cells . Altered function of parvalbumin-positive interneurons has been implicated in various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder .

Recombinant human parvalbumin is produced using expression systems such as E. coli . This recombinant form retains the structural and functional properties of the native protein, making it useful for research purposes. It is often tagged with a His-tag to facilitate purification and detection .

Recombinant parvalbumin is widely used in research to study calcium signaling, synaptic plasticity, and muscle physiology. It is also used in the development of antibodies and in various biochemical assays .