TANK Human (1-119)

The TRAF Family Member-Associated NFKB Activator, commonly referred to as TANK, is a protein encoded by the TANK gene. This protein plays a crucial role in the regulation of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway, which is essential for immune response, inflammation, and cell survival.

The TANK gene is located on chromosome 2 in humans and encodes a protein that is found in the cytoplasm. The protein consists of several domains, including a TRAF-binding domain that allows it to interact with members of the TRAF family, such as TRAF1, TRAF2, and TRAF3 . The human recombinant version of TANK, specifically the 1-119 amino acid (a.a.) fragment, is often used in research to study its function and interactions.

TANK acts as an adaptor protein involved in the regulation of I-kappa-B-kinase (IKK) and plays a significant role in antiviral innate immunity . It constitutively binds to TBK1 and IKBKE, maintaining TRAFs in a latent state and preventing their activation. This inhibition is crucial for controlling the NF-κB signaling pathway, which, when dysregulated, can lead to various diseases, including cancers and autoimmune disorders .

Mutations or dysregulation of the TANK gene and its associated pathways have been linked to several diseases. For instance, TANK has been implicated in Nipah virus encephalitis and spinocerebellar ataxia 20 . Additionally, its role in regulating NF-κB signaling makes it a critical player in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and immune-related conditions .

The human recombinant TANK (1-119 a.a.) is widely used in research to understand its interactions with other proteins and its role in signaling pathways. Studies have shown that TANK can block TRAF2 binding to LMP1, the Epstein-Barr virus transforming protein, thereby inhibiting LMP1-mediated NF-κB activation . This makes it a potential target for therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating immune responses and treating related diseases.