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Molecular cloning and expression of megakaryocyte potentiating factor cDNA

T Kojima1, M Oh-eda, K Hattori

  • 1Fuji-Gotemba Research Laboratories, Chugai Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shizuoka, Japan.

Insights

Researchers isolated the human megakaryocyte potentiating factor (hMPF) cDNA, revealing a 622-amino acid protein. The 33-kDa secreted form exhibits megakaryocyte potentiating activity, unlike the 30-kDa form.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Human megakaryocyte potentiating factor (hMPF) was previously purified from human pancreatic cancer cells (HPC-Y5).
  • The exact molecular basis and functional characteristics of hMPF require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To isolate and characterize the cDNA encoding human megakaryocyte potentiating factor (hMPF).
  • To investigate the expression and functional activity of recombinant hMPF in different cell systems.

Main Methods:

  • hMPF cDNA isolation from HPC-Y5 library using PCR and plaque hybridization.
  • Expression of hMPF cDNA in COS-7 and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells.
  • Purification and activity assays of recombinant hMPF (rhMPF) from cell culture supernatants.

Main Results:

  • hMPF cDNA encodes a 622-amino acid polypeptide (68 kDa theoretical mass), with HPC-Y5 cells secreting a 33-kDa form.
  • Expressed hMPF cDNA yielded a 33-kDa active form in COS-7 cells and both 33-kDa and 30-kDa forms in CHO cells.
  • The 33-kDa rhMPF demonstrated megakaryocyte potentiating activity, while the 30-kDa form did not, attributed to the absence of C-terminal residues.

Conclusions:

  • The isolated hMPF cDNA provides a molecular basis for the protein.
  • Differential processing or post-translational modification in CHO cells leads to distinct hMPF isoforms.
  • The C-terminal 25 amino acids are crucial for the megakaryocyte potentiating activity of hMPF.

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