Description
Storage
Human IFN-α1 Recombinant Protein is supplied as a lyophilized material that is very stable at -20ºC. It is recommended to reconstitute with sterile water at a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL which can be further diluted in aqueous solutions as needed. Addition of a carrier protein (0.1% HSA or BSA) is recommended for long-term storage. Once in solution, store at 4ºC and use within 1 month, or store at -20ºC to -80ºC and use within 3 months to prevent loss of potency. Aliquot to avoid multiple freeze/thaw cycles if storing reconstituted material at -20ºC to -80ºC.
Source / Purification
Recombinant human IFN-α1 was expressed in 293 cells with a C-terminal His-tag and is supplied in a lyophilized form.
Background
Interferon-α1 is a member of the type I interferon (IFN) (1) family best known for their antiviral activity. Most nucleated cells produce one or more type I IFNs in response to viral infection (2). Secreted type I IFN then induces viral protective responses in neighboring non-infected cells. Type I IFNs also enhance virus-induced apoptosis (3). Other IFN-α1 activities include enhancement of dendritic cell maturation and cytotoxic T cell activity (4). IFN-α1 binds to the IFN-αR1 and IFN-αR2 heterodimer (1). Intracellular signaling through the Jak/Stat pathway is best characterized (3). However, the PI3K, ERK, and p38 kinase pathways are also involved (5). The antiviral activities of the IFNs have led to their use in treating viral infections (4). Type I IFNs also appear to have an integral role in several autoimmune diseases (6).
Alternate Names
IFN a1; ifn-a1; IFN-alpha-1/13; IFN-alpha1; IFN13A; IFNA1; Interferon alpha-1/13; rHuInterferon alpha-1
