UPK3A Human

Uroplakin 3A (UPK3A) is a protein encoded by the UPK3A gene in humans. It is a crucial component of the asymmetric unit membrane (AUM), a highly specialized biomembrane found in terminally differentiated urothelial cells. This protein plays a significant role in the structural integrity and function of the urinary bladder.

UPK3A is a transmembrane protein that is primarily expressed in the inner membrane of the urinary bladder. It is also found in the renal pelvis, ureter, and prostatic urethra . The protein contributes to the strength and elasticity of the bladder membrane, allowing it to stretch when the bladder is full .

The primary function of UPK3A is to contribute to the formation of the urothelial glycocalyx, which plays an essential role in preventing bacterial adherence. This protein is also involved in the interaction between the AUM and the cytoskeleton in terminally differentiated urothelial cells . The AUM is crucial for maintaining the barrier function of the urothelium, protecting underlying tissues from urine’s toxic effects.

Recombinant Human Uroplakin-3a (UPK3A) protein is produced using various expression systems, such as E. coli. The recombinant protein is often tagged with a His-Tag to facilitate purification and detection. It is used in various applications, including ELISA, Western Blotting (WB), and Immunoprecipitation (IP) .

The biological activity of recombinant UPK3A is determined by its binding ability in functional assays such as ELISA. The protein’s purity is typically assessed using SDS-PAGE and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), ensuring it meets the required standards for research and diagnostic applications .

UPK3A has been studied for its role in various diseases, particularly transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder. The expression of UPK3A and other uroplakins is often altered in TCC, making them potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of this type of cancer .