Recombinant Bacillus subtilis UPF0014 membrane protein yjkA (yjkA)
Description
Introduction to Recombinant yjkA
Recombinant Bacillus subtilis UPF0014 membrane protein yjkA (yjkA) is a bioengineered version of the native yjkA protein, produced via heterologous expression systems. Classified as a UPF0014 family membrane protein (UniProt ID: O34684), it is primarily associated with Bacillus subtilis strain 168, a model gram-positive bacterium. The recombinant form is widely used in structural, functional, and biotechnological studies due to its potential role in membrane processes, though its exact biological function remains uncharacterized .
Molecular Properties
The amino acid sequence of full-length yjkA includes hydrophobic stretches (e.g., residues 1–250), suggesting transmembrane domains . Recombinant versions are often modified with affinity tags (e.g., His-tag) to facilitate purification .
Functional Inferences
While yjkA’s direct role is unclear, its classification as a UPF0014 membrane protein implies involvement in:
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Membrane transport: Potential association with ABC transporters or channel proteins .
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Membrane biogenesis: Analogous to Bacillus subtilis proteins like SpoIIIJ and YqjG, which mediate membrane protein insertion .
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Stress responses: Possible interaction with quality control systems, though not experimentally validated .
Expression and Isolation
Recombinant yjkA is produced using:
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Organisms | E. coli (most common), mammalian cells, or cell-free systems |
| Purity | >85–90% (SDS-PAGE) |
| Storage | Lyophilized powder at -20°C/-80°C; shelf life: 12 months |
Reconstitution and Handling
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Reconstitution: Deionized sterile water (0.1–1.0 mg/mL) with 5–50% glycerol .
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Stability: Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles; store working aliquots at 4°C for ≤1 week .
Functional Studies
While yjkA itself has not been directly studied, related Bacillus membrane proteins (e.g., SpoIIIJ, YqjG) demonstrate roles in:
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Membrane protein insertion: Facilitating Sec-dependent and -independent pathways .
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Respiratory complex assembly: Associating with F₁F₀-ATP synthase and cytochrome oxidase .
Comparative Analysis with Other Bacillus Membrane Proteins
| Protein | Key Features | Functional Role |
|---|---|---|
| yjkA | UPF0014 family; recombinant His-tag | Hypothetical transport/biogenesis role |
| SpoIIIJ | Oxa1p homolog; spore formation | Membrane protein insertion (post-Sec) |
| YqjG | Oxa1p homolog; complement SpoIIIJ | ATP synthase/F₀ subunit insertion |
| HtrA | Quality control protease; stress response | Protease activity modulates secretion |
Challenges and Future Directions
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Functional Elucidation: Experimental validation of yjkA’s role in membrane processes is lacking.
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Structural Insights: Cryo-EM or X-ray crystallography could resolve its conformational dynamics.
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Biotechnological Potential: Engineering yjkA variants for enhanced secretion in B. subtilis cell factories .
Product Specs
Note: While we prioritize shipping the format currently in stock, please specify your format preference during order placement for customized preparation.
Note: Standard shipping includes blue ice packs. Dry ice shipping requires advance notification and incurs additional charges.
Note: Tag type is determined during production. If you require a specific tag, please inform us for preferential development.
Target Background
KEGG: bsu:BSU12240
STRING: 224308.Bsubs1_010100006771
