SHH Human

The Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) protein is a critical signaling molecule involved in various developmental processes. It is named after the video game character Sonic the Hedgehog due to the spiky appearance of the mutant fruit flies in which it was first discovered. The human recombinant form of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) is a biotechnologically engineered version of the naturally occurring protein, used extensively in research and therapeutic applications.

Sonic Hedgehog plays a pivotal role in embryonic development. It is expressed in tissues that are crucial for the patterning of the developing central nervous system, somites, and limbs. Additionally, Shh is involved in the development of whiskers, hair, foregut, teeth, and bones .

The Shh protein functions by binding to its receptor, Patched (PTCH1), which in turn activates the Smoothened (SMO) protein. This activation triggers a signaling cascade that regulates the transcription of target genes involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, and tissue patterning. The activity of Shh is tightly regulated by post-translational modifications, including cholesterol modification at the C-terminal and fatty acid modification at the N-terminal .

Recombinant human Sonic Hedgehog is produced using various expression systems, including E. coli and human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. The recombinant protein is often modified to enhance its stability and activity. For instance, it may be supplied with or without carrier proteins like Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) to suit different experimental needs .

Recombinant Shh is widely used in research to study its role in development and disease. It is also employed in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering due to its ability to promote cell growth and differentiation. Moreover, Shh has therapeutic potential in treating conditions like neurodegenerative diseases and injuries .