UCHL1 Mouse
Description
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
UCHL1 is a thiol protease that hydrolyzes a peptide bond at the C-terminal glycine of ubiquitin . This enzyme plays a crucial role in the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, which is responsible for degrading unneeded or damaged proteins by tagging them with ubiquitin . The enzyme’s hydrolase activity helps in processing ubiquitin precursors and recycling ubiquitin from ubiquitin-protein conjugates .
UCHL1 constitutes about 1-2% of the total soluble protein in the brain, making it one of the most abundant proteins in this organ . It is specifically expressed in neurons and is involved in maintaining neuronal health and function . The enzyme is also found in cells of the diffuse neuroendocrine system, which includes various hormone-producing cells scattered throughout the body .
Recombinant UCHL1, such as the mouse recombinant version, is produced using genetic engineering techniques. This involves inserting the UCHL1 gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or mammalian cells, to produce the protein in large quantities . Recombinant proteins are used in various research applications, including studying the enzyme’s structure, function, and role in diseases .
Mutations in the UCHL1 gene have been associated with several neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease . These mutations can lead to either loss of function or gain of function of the enzyme, affecting its ability to process ubiquitin and maintain protein homeostasis . For example, certain mutations can increase the enzyme’s hydrolytic activity, while others can render the enzyme insoluble and inactive .
UCHL1 is a subject of extensive research due to its critical role in the nervous system and its association with neurodegenerative diseases . Studies on recombinant UCHL1 help in understanding the enzyme’s function, identifying potential therapeutic targets, and developing treatments for related disorders . Additionally, UCHL1 is used as a neuronal marker in various experimental settings due to its high expression in neurons .
