Microphthalmia-associated Transcription Factor (MITF) Recombinant Proteins are vital in the study of gene regulation, particularly in melanocytes, where MITF plays a key role in the development, function, and survival of these pigment-producing cells. MITF is also significant in the regulation of various genes involved in pigmentation, cell cycle progression, and apoptosis.

Technical Details

Structure:

• MITF is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix-leucine zipper (bHLH-LZ) transcription factor family.
• It functions as a homodimer or heterodimer, binding to E-box sequences in DNA to regulate target gene transcription.

Production:

• MITF recombinant proteins are produced using recombinant DNA technology, typically in E. coli or mammalian expression systems.
• The recombinant production ensures high purity and activity, allowing for detailed functional studies.

Applications:

• Gene Regulation Studies:
  • Used to investigate the transcriptional regulation of genes involved in pigmentation and melanocyte function.
  • Helps in understanding the regulatory mechanisms underlying melanogenesis.
• Cancer Research:
  • MITF is a critical factor in melanoma development and progression.
  • Studying MITF function and regulation provides insights into melanoma biology and potential therapeutic targets.
• Developmental Biology:
  • MITF plays a role in the development of neural crest-derived cells, including melanocytes, osteoclasts, and mast cells.
  • Recombinant MITF proteins help elucidate its role in cell differentiation and development.
• Disease Models:
  • Used in creating models for diseases like Waardenburg syndrome and Tietz syndrome, which are linked to mutations in the MITF gene.
  • Facilitates the study of the molecular basis of these genetic disorders.

Analytical Methods:

• Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA): To study DNA-binding activity.
• Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP): To identify MITF target genes and binding sites in vivo.
• Reporter Assays: To assess transcriptional activity.
• Western Blotting: For protein expression analysis.