RBP4 Mouse

RBP4 is a single polypeptide chain with a hydrophobic pocket where retinol binds . In the bloodstream, the RBP4-retinol complex interacts with transthyretin (TTR), forming a stable complex that prevents the loss of retinol through renal filtration . This interaction is essential for maintaining adequate levels of retinol in the body, which is vital for various physiological functions, including vision, immune response, and cellular growth .

Retinol, also known as vitamin A, is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for human health . It plays a critical role in vision by forming the light-sensitive chromophore of the rhodopsin complex in the retina . Additionally, retinol is involved in immune cell function, reproduction, embryonic development, and the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation .

RBP4 has been a target for drug development, particularly in the field of ophthalmology . Studies have shown that lowering RBP4 levels can reduce the accumulation of lipofuscin, a substance that leads to vision loss in diseases like Stargardt’s disease and macular degeneration . Animal studies have demonstrated that reducing serum RBP4 levels can inhibit lipofuscin accumulation without affecting the visual cycle .

Recombinant RBP4, such as the mouse recombinant bioactive form, is produced using genetic engineering techniques. This allows for the production of large quantities of the protein for research and therapeutic purposes . The recombinant form retains the biological activity of the native protein, making it a valuable tool for studying retinol transport and its associated physiological processes .