Transthyretin Recombinant Proteins 

Transthyretin (TTR) recombinant proteins are engineered versions of the native protein, a tetrameric transport protein primarily responsible for carrying thyroxine (T4) and retinol-binding protein (RBP) in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. TTR is highly conserved across species and plays a critical role in thyroid hormone distribution and vitamin A metabolism. 

Content on TTR Recombinant Proteins

• Structure and Function
  • TTR is a 55 kDa tetramer composed of four identical subunits, each with a central β-sheet and binding sites for T4 and RBP.
  • It functions as a transporter of:
    • Thyroxine (T4): Regulates systemic thyroid hormone levels.
    • Retinol-binding protein (RBP): Mediates retinol (vitamin A) transport in complex with RBP.
  • TTR also plays a protective role in neurodegenerative conditions by scavenging amyloidogenic peptides.
• Expression Systems
  • Prokaryotic Systems (e.g., E. coli): Used for producing monomeric or modified forms of TTR.
  • Eukaryotic Systems (e.g., mammalian or insect cells): Preserve post-translational modifications and native tetrameric structure.

Applications of TTR Recombinant Proteins

• Amyloidosis Research
  • Study the role of TTR in amyloid fibril formation, particularly in transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR).
  • Investigate the structural and biochemical mechanisms of TTR aggregation and its inhibition.
• Thyroid Hormone Transport
  • Examine TTR’s role in transporting thyroxine and maintaining thyroid hormone homeostasis.
  • Study alterations in TTR function in thyroid disorders.
• Vitamin A Metabolism
  • Analyze TTR’s interaction with RBP and its role in retinol transport.
  • Study disruptions in vitamin A delivery associated with metabolic or genetic disorders.
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
  • Investigate TTR’s protective role against neurotoxic amyloid beta aggregation in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Explore TTR’s neuroprotective mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications.

TTR recombinant proteins are essential tools for advancing research in metabolic, neurological, and amyloidogenic disorders, providing critical insights into the biology of transthyretin and its therapeutic potential.