IL-13 is an immunoregulatory cytokine produced primarily by activated Th2 cells, and also by mast cells and NK cells. Targeted deletion of IL-13 in mice resulted in impaired Th2 cell development and indicated an important role for IL-13 in the expulsion of gastrointestinal parasites. IL-13 exerts anti-inflammatory effects on monocytes and macrophages and it inhibits the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1b, TNF-a, IL-6 and IL-8. IL-13 has also been shown to enhance B cell proliferation and to induce isotype switching resulting in increased production of IgE. Blocking of IL-13 activity inhibits the pathophysiology of asthma. Human and murine IL-13 is cross-species reactive. Recombinant rat IL-13 is a 12.3kD protein consisting of 113aa.
Source:
Recombinant protein corresponding to rat IL-13, expressed in E.coli.
Biological Activity:
Determined by the dose-dependent proliferation of TF-1 cells. The ED50 was found to be <5ng/ml.
Specific Activity:
>2x10e5units/mg.
Endotoxin:
<0.1ng/ug (1EU/ug)
AA Sequence:
TPGPVRRSTS PPVALRELIE ELSNITQDQK TSLCNSSIVW SVDLTAGGFC AALESLTNIS SCNAIHRTQR ILNGLCNQKA SDVASSPPDT KIEVAQFISK LLNYSKQLFR YGH
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.