Human V-set domain-containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1(VTCN1)/B7H4 recombinant protein

Description of Human V-set domain-containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1(VTCN1)/B7H4 recombinant protein

Introduction

Human V-set domain-containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1 (VTCN1), also known as B7H4, is a transmembrane protein that belongs to the B7 family of immune checkpoint molecules. It is expressed on the surface of various immune cells, including T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages. VTCN1 functions as a negative regulator of T cell activation and plays a critical role in maintaining immune homeostasis.

Structure of VTCN1/B7H4 Recombinant Protein

The VTCN1/B7H4 recombinant protein is a soluble form of the full-length VTCN1 protein, which consists of 309 amino acids. It contains a signal peptide, an extracellular V-type Ig-like domain, a transmembrane domain, and a short cytoplasmic tail. The extracellular domain of VTCN1 contains two immunoglobulin-like domains, an N-terminal V-set domain and a C-terminal C1-set domain, which are responsible for binding to its receptor on T cells.

Activity of VTCN1/B7H4 Recombinant Protein

VTCN1/B7H4 recombinant protein acts as a co-inhibitory molecule that suppresses T cell activation and proliferation. It does so by binding to its receptor, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (TIM-3), on the surface of T cells. This interaction leads to the inhibition of T cell receptor signaling and the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. VTCN1/B7H4 also induces the differentiation of regulatory T cells, which further suppresses the immune response.

Application of VTCN1/B7H4 Recombinant Protein

The role of VTCN1/B7H4 in regulating T cell activity makes it a potential drug target for various immune-related diseases. Its expression has been found to be dysregulated in several types of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. Therefore, targeting VTCN1/B7H4 with recombinant protein or antibody-based therapies could have therapeutic benefits in the following diseases:

Cancer

VTCN1/B7H4 is highly expressed in many types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, lung, and renal cancer. Its overexpression has been associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis. Inhibiting VTCN1/B7H4 with recombinant protein or antibodies has shown promising results in preclinical studies, leading to the development of clinical trials for cancer treatment.

Autoimmune Diseases

VTCN1/B7H4 has been implicated in the development of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Its expression is upregulated in these diseases, and blocking its activity with recombinant protein or antibodies has been shown to reduce disease severity in animal models.

Infectious Diseases

VTCN1/B7H4 has been reported to play a role in the pathogenesis of viral and bacterial infections. It has been shown to be upregulated in response to viral infections, such as hepatitis B and C, and bacterial infections, such as tuberculosis. Inhibiting VTCN1/B7H4 with recombinant protein or antibodies has been found to enhance the immune response against these infections, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target.

Conclusion

In summary, VTCN1/B7H4 recombinant protein is a promising drug target with potential applications in various immune-related diseases. Its structure, activity, and role in regulating T cell function make it a key player in maintaining immune homeostasis. Further research and clinical trials are needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential of VTCN1/B7H4 in different diseases.