Recombinant Human CNTF Protein

Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor (CNTF) is a potent survival factor for neurons and oligodendrocytes. CNTF has also been shown to prevent the degeneration of motor axons after axotomy. CNTF is highly conserved across species and exhibits cross-species activities. Human and rat CNTF share approximately 83% homology in their protein sequence. CNTF is structurally related to IL6, IL11, LIF and OSM. All of these four helix bundle cytokines share gp130 as a signal transducing subunit in their receptor complexes. CNTF, like FGF acidic, FGF basic, and PD-ECGF (platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor), does not possess a signal sequence that would allow secretion of the factor by classical secretion pathways. The mechanism underlying the release of CNTF is unknown.

Generally, lyophilized proteins are stable for up to 12 months when stored at -20 to -80°C. Reconstituted protein solution can be stored at 4-8°C for 2-7 days. Aliquots of reconstituted samples are stable at < -20°C for 3 months.