Merck, SRP3091-10UG, IL-31 human

General description
IL-31 (interleukin 31) is a T-cell expressed four helix bundle cytokine that functions as a ligand for a heterodimeric receptor composed of IL-31 receptor A (IL-31RA) and oncostatin M receptor (OSMR). The latter is expressed in epithelial cells and keratinocytes. IL-31 is a member of the gp130/IL-6 (glycoprotein 130) cytokine family. This protein is released by CD4⁺T cells, and is activated by Th2 (T-helper) cells, peripheral blood and skin-homing CD45RO⁺ CLA⁺ (cutaneous lymphocyte-associated antigen-positive) T cells and MCs (mast cells).
Recombinant IL-31 is a 15.8kDa protein containing 141 amino acid residues.
Biochem/physiol Actions
IL-31 (interleukin 31) is implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders such as alopecia, atopic dermatitis, itching, airway hypersensitivity, inflammatory bowel disease, and hepatitis B related liver failure. It is a specific and sensitive marker for tuberculous pleurisy, and is capable of differentiating it from malignant pleural effusion. In humans, this cytokine shows significant elevated expression in pruritic, such as atopic dermatitis, but not in non-pruritic, such as psoriasis, forms of chronic skin inflammation. IL-31 is also implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic spontaneous urticaria, prurigo nodularis, and primary cutaneous lymphomas. Variants in this gene might be linked with the development of mastocytosis and the induction of pruritus in mastocytosis patients.
Physical form
Lyophilized from 10 mM Sodium Phosphate, pH 7.5.
Preparation Note
Centrifuge the vial prior to opening. Reconstitute in water to a concentration of 0.1-1.0 mg/ml. Do not vortex. This solution can be stored at 2-8°C for up to 1 week. For extended storage, it is recommended to further dilute in a buffer containing a carrier protein (example 0.1% BSA) and store in working aliquots at -20°C to -80°C.
Other Notes
SHTLPVRLLR PSDDVQKIVE ELQSLSKMLL KDVEEEKGVL VSQNYTLPCL SPDAQPPNNI HSPAIRAYLK TIRQLDNKSV IDEIIEHLDK LIFQDAPETN ISVPTDTHEC KRFILTISQQ FSECMDLALK SLTSGAQQAT T