S100A1 Mouse

S100 Calcium Binding Protein A1 (S100A1) is a member of the S100 family of proteins, which are characterized by their ability to bind calcium ions through EF-hand motifs. These proteins play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, differentiation, and intracellular signaling. S100A1, in particular, is highly expressed in cardiac and skeletal muscle tissues and has been implicated in the regulation of calcium homeostasis and muscle function.

S100A1 is a small protein that typically forms homodimers or heterodimers with other S100 family members. Each monomer contains two EF-hand calcium-binding motifs, which are helix-loop-helix structures that coordinate calcium ions. The binding of calcium induces conformational changes in the protein, allowing it to interact with target proteins and modulate their activity .

S100A1 plays a pivotal role in the regulation of calcium dynamics within cells. In cardiac and skeletal muscle cells, it is involved in the regulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium release, which is essential for muscle contraction. S100A1 interacts with key proteins involved in calcium cycling, such as the ryanodine receptors (RYR1 and RYR2), sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2±ATPase (SERCA2), and mitochondrial F1-ATPase .

In addition to its role in muscle function, S100A1 has been shown to influence other cellular processes, including the inhibition of microtubule assembly and the modulation of protein kinase C-mediated phosphorylation. These functions highlight the protein’s versatility and its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis .

The expression of S100A1 is altered in various pathological conditions. Reduced levels of S100A1 have been associated with cardiomyopathies, a group of diseases that affect the heart muscle and its ability to pump blood effectively. Studies have suggested that S100A1 could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of heart failure and other cardiac disorders .

Moreover, S100A1 has been implicated in certain cancers, such as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors and myoepitheliomas. Its role in these diseases is still being investigated, but it is believed that S100A1 may influence tumor progression and metastasis through its effects on calcium signaling and cellular proliferation .

Recombinant S100A1 protein, particularly from mouse models, is widely used in research to study its structure, function, and interactions with other proteins. The recombinant protein is produced using genetic engineering techniques, where the S100A1 gene is cloned into an expression vector and introduced into a host organism, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the protein in large quantities .

The availability of recombinant S100A1 has facilitated numerous studies aimed at understanding its role in health and disease. Researchers use recombinant S100A1 to investigate its interactions with other proteins, its effects on cellular processes, and its potential as a therapeutic target .