S100 Calcium Binding Protein A8 (S100A8), also known as calgranulin A, is a member of the S100 family of proteins. These proteins are characterized by their ability to bind calcium and zinc ions, which is crucial for their biological functions. S100A8 plays a significant role in the regulation of inflammatory processes and immune responses. It is predominantly found as part of the heterodimeric complex calprotectin (S100A8/A9), which has a wide range of intra- and extracellular functions .
S100A8 is a small protein with a molecular mass of approximately 14.5 kDa. The recombinant form of this protein, produced in E. coli, is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 127 amino acids. It includes a 24 amino acid His-tag at the N-terminus and a 10 amino acid Myc-tag at the C-terminus . These tags facilitate the purification and detection of the protein in various experimental setups.
The primary function of S100A8 is to regulate the inflammatory response. It can induce neutrophil chemotaxis and adhesion, which are critical steps in the immune response to infection and injury. Additionally, S100A8 is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. It also plays a role in tumorigenesis and development .
The recombinant S100A8 protein is typically produced using bacterial expression systems, such as E. coli. The gene encoding S100A8 is cloned into an expression vector that includes sequences for the His and Myc tags. The vector is then introduced into E. coli cells, which are cultured under conditions that promote the expression of the recombinant protein. After expression, the protein is purified using affinity chromatography techniques that exploit the His-tag for selective binding to a nickel or cobalt resin .
S100A8 undergoes several post-translational modifications that are essential for its function. These modifications include phosphorylation, which can affect the protein’s ability to bind calcium and interact with other molecules. The protein’s interaction with calcium and zinc ions is critical for its role in the inflammatory response. Analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and X-ray crystallography are used to study these interactions and the protein’s structure .