Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates diverse T and B cell responses including cell proliferation, survival and gene expression. Produced by mast cells, T cells and bone marrow stromal cells, IL-4 regulates the differentiation of naive CD4+ T cells into helper Th2 cells, characterized by their cytokine-secretion profile that includes secretion of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-13, which favor a humoral immune response. Another dominant function of IL-4 is the regulation of immunoglobulin class switching to the IgG1 and IgE isotypes. Excessive IL-4 production by Th2 cells has been associated with elevated IgE production and allergy. Recombinant murine IL-4 is a 13.5kD globular protein containing 120 amino acid residues.
AA Sequence: MHIHGCDKNH LREIIGILNE VTGEGTPCTE MDVPNVLTAT KNTTESELVC RASKVLRIFY LKHGKTPCLK KNSSVLMELQ RLFRAFRCLD SSISCTMNES KSTSLKDFLE SLKSIMQMDY S
Biological Activity: Fully biologically active when compared to standards. The ED50 was determined by the dose-dependent proliferation of murine HT-2 cells is < 2ng/ml, corresponding to a specific activity of > 5 x 105 units/mg.
Responding Cells (partial list): B cells and certain T cells
Concentration Range for most in vitro applications: 0.5-5ng/ml
Storage and Stability:
Lyophilized powder is stable for at least 12 months at -20 degrees C Reconstituted product must be stored in working aliquots at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.