Recombinant Rat IL-13 (113 a.a.)

Interleukin 13 (IL-13) is a cytokine secreted by many cell types, but especially T helper type 2 (T_h2) cells¹, that is an important mediator of allergic inflammation and disease. IL-13 induces its effects through a multi-subunit receptor that includes the alpha chain of the IL-4 receptor (IL-4Rα), which is also a component of the IL-4 receptor, and at least one of two known IL-13-specific binding chains.¹ The functions of IL-13 overlap considerably with those of IL-4. Although IL-13 is associated primarily with the induction of airway disease, it also has anti-inflammatory properties. IL-13 induces many features of allergic lung disease, including airway hyperresponsiveness, goblet cell metaplasia and mucus hypersecretion, which all contribute to airway obstruction.

The biological activity of Rat Interleukin-13, 113 a.a., is determined by by the dose-dependent proliferation of TF-1 cells. The expected ED₅₀ for this effect is 2 x 10⁵ units/mg.

TPGPVRRSTS PPVALRELIE ELSNITQDQK TSLCNSSIVW SVDLTAGGFC AALESLTNIS SCNAIHRTQR ILNGLCNQKA SDVASSPPDT KIEVAQFISK LLNYSKQLFR YGH

The lyophilized protein should be stored desiccated at -20°C. The reconstituted protein can be stored for at least one week at 4°C. For long-term storage of the reconstituted protein, aliquot into working volumes and store at -20°C in a manual defrost freezer. Avoid Repeated Freeze Thaw Cycles.

1. Wynn TA. et al. (2003) Annu Rev Immunol. 21: 425