Recombinant Mouse Tyrosine-protein kinase Mer (Mertk), partial, is a genetically engineered protein derived from the mouse Mertk gene. This protein is produced in mammalian cells and is designed to mimic the function of the native Mer tyrosine kinase, which plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including the clearance of apoptotic cells and regulation of immune responses .
The Mertk protein belongs to the Tyro3/Axl/Mer (TAM) family of receptor tyrosine kinases. It consists of two immunoglobulin-like domains, two fibronectin type-III domains, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic kinase domain . The recombinant version of this protein is expressed with a C-terminal 10xHis tag for purification purposes and includes amino acids 19-497 of the mouse Mertk sequence .
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Protein Type | Recombinant Tyrosine-protein kinase Mer (Mertk) |
| Expression System | Mammalian cells |
| Purity | Greater than 95% by SDS-PAGE |
| Tag | C-terminal 10xHis tag |
| Amino Acid Range | 19-497 |
The Mer tyrosine kinase is involved in several biological processes:
Apoptotic Cell Clearance: Mer plays a critical role in the recognition and engulfment of apoptotic cells by macrophages, contributing to the resolution of inflammation .
Immune Regulation: It acts as an innate immune checkpoint, influencing macrophage polarization and cytokine production .
Cell Signaling: Mer signaling affects various pathways, including PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK, impacting cell survival and proliferation .
Research on recombinant Mertk has focused on its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in cancer treatment. Mertk has been shown to regulate cell apoptosis and proliferation, making it a target for tumor therapy . Additionally, studies have explored its role in modulating immune responses and its potential as a therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases .
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Cancer Therapy | Targeting Mertk to modulate apoptosis and proliferation in cancer cells |
| Immune Regulation | Investigating Mertk's role in immune checkpoint modulation and inflammatory disease management |
| Apoptotic Cell Clearance | Studying Mertk's function in resolving inflammation through apoptotic cell removal |