CRKL Human

V-crk Sarcoma Virus CT10 Oncogene Homolog (Avian)-Like Human Recombinant
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Description

Molecular Structure and Function

Domain Architecture:

  • SH2 domain: Binds phosphorylated tyrosine residues on activated receptors (e.g., EGFR, PDGFR) .

  • SH3 domains: Mediate interactions with proline-rich motifs in downstream effectors like BCAR1 and RAPGEF1 .

Key Signaling Pathways:

  • RAS/MAPK: CRKL activates RAS via SOS1, driving cell cycle progression .

  • PI3K/AKT: Facilitates survival signaling through interactions with GAB1/2 and PIK3R2 .

  • BCR-ABL: CRKL is phosphorylated by BCR-ABL in chronic myeloid leukemia, promoting fibroblast transformation .

Oncogenic Roles in Human Cancers

CRKL overexpression or amplification is recurrent in multiple cancers, correlating with poor prognosis and therapy resistance:

Table 1: CRKL in Cancer Pathogenesis

Cancer TypeMechanismFunctional ImpactReferences
Laryngeal SCCAmplification (22q11) and nuclear localization↑ Proliferation (p < 0.01); ↑ Migration (p < 0.05) via RAS activation
Endometrial CarcinomaOverexpression (50.5% of cases)↓ Apoptosis; ↑ Cyclin D1/E and Bcl-2; G1-S transition (p = 0.023)
Lung AdenocarcinomaAmplification in 8–12% of casesEGF-independent growth; resistance to EGFR inhibitors (e.g., erlotinib)
Breast CancerInteraction with HER2↑ Metastasis; anchorage-independent growth

Mechanisms of Oncogenesis

  • Proliferation: CRKL silencing via siRNA reduces viability in LSCC (60% mRNA suppression; p < 0.01) , NSCLC (WST-1 assay; p < 0.001) , and endometrial carcinoma (MTT assay; p < 0.001) .

  • Migration/Invasion: CRKL knockdown decreases wound healing in LSCC (20–80% reduction; p < 0.05) and glioblastoma (↓ lamellipodia formation) .

  • Anti-Apoptotic Effects: Overexpression upregulates survivin and Bcl-2 while suppressing Bax and caspase-3 cleavage .

Developmental and Non-Cancer Roles

  • Urogenital Development:

    • Crkl haploinsufficiency in mice causes renal hypoplasia and cryptorchidism .

    • CNVs encompassing CRKL are enriched in patients with congenital kidney anomalies (1.4% vs. 0.088% in controls; p = 0.0004) .

  • Cardiac Development:

    • Endocardial Crk/Crkl deletion disrupts atrioventricular valve remodeling via altered ECM deposition and reduced apoptosis .

Therapeutic Implications

  • Targeted Inhibition:

    • siRNA or CRISPR-mediated CRKL silencing reverses oncogenic phenotypes in vitro .

    • Small-molecule inhibitors disrupting CRKL-SH3 interactions (e.g., blocking RAS activation) are under preclinical evaluation .

  • Biomarker Potential:

    • CRKL amplification predicts resistance to EGFR inhibitors in NSCLC .

Future Directions

  • Elucidate CRKL’s role in immune evasion and metastasis.

  • Develop isoform-specific inhibitors to mitigate off-target effects.

  • Validate CRKL as a liquid biopsy biomarker for early cancer detection .

Product Specs

Introduction
Crk-like protein (CRKL), equipped with SH2 and SH3 domains, functions as a protein kinase. It plays a crucial role in activating both the RAS and JUN kinase signaling pathways. Additionally, CRKL exhibits the capacity to transform fibroblasts in a RAS-dependent manner. Notably, CRKL can substitute for the BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase, contribute to fibroblast transformation driven by BCR-ABL, and possess oncogenic potential.
Description
CRKL Human Recombinant, a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain, is produced in E. coli with a 20 amino acid His tag fused at its N-terminus. This recombinant protein comprises 323 amino acids (1-303 a.a.) and exhibits a molecular mass of 35.9kDa. However, its apparent size on SDS-PAGE might be higher. The purification of CRKL is achieved through proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Physical Appearance
The product is a sterile-filtered solution, appearing colorless.
Formulation
The CRKL solution is provided at a concentration of 1 mg/ml and is formulated in a buffer containing 20mM Tris-HCl (pH 8.0), 10% glycerol, 2mM DTT, and 0.1M NaCl.
Stability
For short-term storage (2-4 weeks), the product should be kept at 4°C. For extended storage, freezing at -20°C is recommended. The addition of a carrier protein (0.1% HSA or BSA) is advisable for long-term storage. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided.
Purity
The purity of CRKL is determined to be greater than 90.0% by SDS-PAGE analysis.
Synonyms
Crk-like protein, CRKL.
Source
Escherichia Coli.
Amino Acid Sequence
MGSSHHHHHH SSGLVPRGSH MSSARFDSSD RSAWYMGPVS RQEAQTRLQG QRHGMFLVRDSSTCPGDYVL SVSENSRVSH YIINSLPNRR FKIGDQEFDH LPALLEFYKI HYLDTTTLIE PAPRYPSPPM GSVSAPNLPT AEDNLEYVRT LYDFPGNDAE DLPFKKGEIL VIIEKPEEQW WSARNKDGRV GMIPVPYVEK LVRSSPHGKH GNRNSNSYGI PEPAHAYAQP QTTTPLPAVS GSPGAAITPL PSTQNGPVFA KAIQKRVPCA YDKTALALEV GDIVKVTRMN INGQWEGEVN GRKGLFPFTH VKIFDPQNPD ENE.

Q&A

What is the fundamental role of CRKL in human cellular signaling?

CRKL functions as an adapter protein containing SH2 and SH3 domains that mediate protein-protein interactions in various signaling pathways. When approaching this question methodologically, researchers should employ both computational and biological validation approaches. As Kohane argues, there are situations where "an overwhelming set of 'lightly used' previously published data can be re-explored to even greater effect and greater applicability than a narrow set of biological experiments" . For CRKL research, this might involve meta-analysis of existing datasets before conducting new experimental validation.

How does CRKL structure relate to its function in human cells?

When investigating structure-function relationships, researchers should consider that "Like proteins, many RNA molecules can fold into three-dimensional structures that catalyze reactions and regulate gene expression" . Similarly, understanding CRKL's structural characteristics requires both computational modeling and experimental validation. Researchers should design experiments that allow for clear hypothesis testing about how specific domains contribute to CRKL function, following principles of good experimental design where "the observations or measurements should be obtained to answer a query in a valid, efficient and economical way" .

What are the primary experimental models used to study CRKL in human systems?

When selecting experimental models, consider the observation that "biological results from an in vitro experiment in a non-human model organism under conditions having little to do with those experienced in the course of human pathology" may be suspect . Experimental design should include appropriate controls and validation steps. Consider the following comparative approach to model systems:

Model SystemAdvantagesLimitationsBest Applications
Human cell linesDirect relevance to human biologyLimited physiological contextMolecular mechanisms, protein interactions
Mouse modelsIn vivo context, genetic manipulationSpecies differencesSignaling pathways, tissue-specific functions
Computational modelsLarge-scale data integrationRequires validationPathway analysis, structure prediction

How should experimental design address CRKL's role in specific signaling pathways?

When designing experiments, researchers must understand that "the designing of the experiment and the analysis of obtained data are inseparable" . For CRKL research, this means clearly defining experimental units, treatments, and sampling units before beginning. "If the experiment is designed properly keeping in mind the question, then the data generated is valid and proper analysis of data provides the valid statistical inferences" . Therefore, when studying CRKL's role in specific pathways, researchers should:

  • Define clear hypotheses about pathway interactions

  • Design appropriate controls for each signaling component

  • Account for potential cross-talk between pathways

  • Establish clear metrics for measuring pathway activation

What are the methodological challenges in studying CRKL phosphorylation states?

When investigating protein phosphorylation, researchers face analytical challenges similar to those described in computational biology: "Can we establish a scientific theory or at least a reliable set of heuristics as to when such investigations are sufficient?" For CRKL phosphorylation studies, researchers should employ multiple complementary techniques (mass spectrometry, phospho-specific antibodies, kinase assays) to address the methodological limitations of each approach. The experimental design should include appropriate controls and validation steps, considering that "the unexplained random part of the variation in any experiment is termed as experimental error" .

How can researchers effectively address conflicting data about CRKL function?

Conflicting data is common in complex biological systems. Kohane recounts presenting findings where "after my presentation, colleagues expressed skepticism about the validity and interest of these results, given that the analysis brought together so many disparate conditions and organisms" . When facing contradictory results about CRKL function, researchers should:

  • Evaluate methodological differences between studies

  • Consider biological context variations

  • Examine whether conflicting data might represent different aspects of CRKL function

  • Design experiments specifically to address and reconcile contradictions

How can multidisciplinary teams effectively collaborate on CRKL research?

Studies show that "even when collaborators are in the same location (a best case scenario), fewer than a third of collaborations succeed" . For CRKL research that often spans structural biology, cell signaling, and disease models, effective collaboration requires attention to proximity. The "Allen Curve" suggests that "When coworkers are located more than 30 meters from one another, a collaboration's effectiveness declines precipitously" . Teams should implement regular in-person meetings when possible, and for distanced collaboration, develop structured communication protocols.

What factors contribute to successful computational and experimental integration in CRKL research?

According to the "Theory of Remote Scientific Collaboration" (TORSC), successful collaboration depends on "collaboration readiness, technical readiness, modularity of tasks, and a management plan" . When integrating computational predictions with experimental validation of CRKL function, researchers should:

  • Establish clear roles between computational and experimental scientists

  • Develop shared terminology and understanding of each approach's limitations

  • Create modular project components with clear integration points

  • Implement regular review of both computational predictions and experimental results

How should researchers design collaborative studies that bridge clinical and basic science aspects of CRKL?

Multi-institutional collaborations face particular challenges, as "collaborations involving more institutions actually generated fewer positive outcomes" . For CRKL research spanning clinical and basic science domains, researchers should implement structured knowledge transfer processes, including:

  • Regular inter-institutional meetings

  • Shared databases and analysis pipelines

  • Clear division of responsibilities

  • Documentation of methodological approaches across institutions

What statistical approaches are most appropriate for analyzing complex CRKL signaling networks?

When analyzing complex signaling networks, researchers should recognize that "if the experiment is not well designed, the validity of the statistical inferences is questionable and may be invalid" . For CRKL network analysis, appropriate statistical approaches should:

  • Account for multiple testing when examining numerous pathway components

  • Consider both direct and indirect interactions

  • Adjust for potential confounding variables

  • Implement appropriate normalization for different experimental conditions

How can researchers effectively integrate computational predictions with experimental data about CRKL function?

Integrating computational and experimental approaches remains challenging. Kohane notes the "failure of the bio-computation community's confidence in their own methodology and a similar failure in our ability to educate our broader biological investigational community regarding what constitutes a figure of merit in a modern computationally-assisted scientific investigation" . When integrating computational predictions with experimental data for CRKL, researchers should:

  • Clearly define the strengths and limitations of each approach

  • Establish validation criteria before beginning analysis

  • Consider using Bayesian approaches to update predictions based on experimental findings

  • Document both confirmatory and contradictory results between computational and experimental approaches

What are best practices for addressing variability in CRKL expression and activation across different human tissues?

When studying biological variation, researchers should recognize that "replication" is "the repetition of the experimental situation by replicating the experimental unit" . For addressing variability in CRKL expression and function, researchers should:

  • Design sampling strategies that account for biological variability

  • Use appropriate statistical methods to quantify variation

  • Consider hierarchical or mixed models that can account for nested sources of variation

  • Report both means and measures of variability in publications

How should researchers apply single-cell analysis techniques to understand CRKL function in heterogeneous populations?

Single-cell approaches require specialized experimental design considerations. As noted for experimental design generally, researchers must clearly identify "the object that is measured in an experiment" (the sampling unit), which "may be different from the experimental unit" . For single-cell studies of CRKL, researchers should:

  • Establish clear cellular identification and isolation protocols

  • Develop appropriate controls for technical variability

  • Consider computational approaches for handling high-dimensional data

  • Validate findings across multiple single-cell platforms

What are emerging technologies that may transform our understanding of CRKL dynamics in human systems?

When evaluating new technologies, researchers should consider both "technical readiness" for adoption and the potential impact on understanding fundamental biology . For CRKL research, promising technologies include:

  • Live-cell imaging of CRKL dynamics

  • Optogenetic control of CRKL activation

  • CRISPR-based functional genomics

  • AI-driven prediction of CRKL interaction networks

Each of these approaches requires rigorous validation, following the principle that "the designing of the experiment and the analysis of obtained data are inseparable" .

Product Science Overview

Introduction

The V-crk Sarcoma Virus CT10 Oncogene Homolog (Avian)-Like, commonly referred to as CRK, is a gene that encodes a member of the CRK family of adaptor proteins. These proteins are involved in signal transduction pathways that regulate various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. The human recombinant form of this gene is of particular interest in cancer research due to its role in oncogenesis.

Historical Context

The CRK gene was originally identified in the CT10 avian sarcoma virus, where it was found to be responsible for the transformation of normal cells into cancerous cells. This discovery highlighted the gene’s potential role in oncogenesis and spurred further research into its function and mechanisms.

Molecular Structure and Function

CRK proteins contain SH2 (Src Homology 2) and SH3 (Src Homology 3) domains, which allow them to interact with other proteins involved in signal transduction. The SH2 domain binds to phosphorylated tyrosine residues on target proteins, while the SH3 domain interacts with proline-rich sequences. These interactions facilitate the assembly of multi-protein complexes that transmit signals from cell surface receptors to intracellular targets.

Biological Functions

CRK proteins play a crucial role in various cellular processes:

  • Cell Proliferation: CRK proteins are involved in the regulation of cell division and growth. They transmit signals from growth factor receptors to downstream effectors that promote cell cycle progression.
  • Cell Migration: CRK proteins are essential for cell movement and are involved in processes such as wound healing and embryonic development. They regulate the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton, which is necessary for cell motility.
  • Cell Differentiation: CRK proteins influence the differentiation of cells into specialized cell types. They are involved in signaling pathways that determine cell fate during development.
Role in Cancer

CRK proteins have been implicated in the development and progression of various cancers. Overexpression of CRK has been observed in several types of tumors, including lung, breast, and colorectal cancers . The oncogenic potential of CRK is attributed to its ability to promote cell proliferation, inhibit apoptosis (programmed cell death), and enhance cell migration and invasion. These properties contribute to tumor growth and metastasis.

Regulatory Mechanisms

The activity of CRK proteins is regulated by phosphorylation. Tyrosine phosphorylation of CRK proteins can either activate or inhibit their function, depending on the context. Additionally, CRK proteins are subject to regulation by other signaling molecules, such as kinases and phosphatases, which modulate their interactions with target proteins.

Research and Therapeutic Implications

Given its role in oncogenesis, CRK is a potential target for cancer therapy. Inhibitors that block the interactions of CRK with its binding partners or prevent its phosphorylation could potentially disrupt the signaling pathways that drive tumor growth. Ongoing research aims to develop such therapeutic strategies and to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying CRK function.

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