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High quality tubulin and microtubule-associated proteins: tau, MAP1 and MAP2 as research tools

Reference Number TO 11-00053

Challenge

The western world is facing unprecedented demographic changes that will have a substantial impact on the whole of society. Major medical challenges of an increased life expectancy include a higher frequency of neurodegenerative diseases. Already today, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disorders affect the life of millions and pose a growing threat to public health. A lot of research has still to be done to discover the molecular causes of neurodegenerative diseases and to develop therapeutic strategies. For several neuronal disorders a relation to tubulin and microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) is known, making these proteins promising targets and research items.

High quality tubulin and microtubule-associated proteins: tau, MAP1 and MAP2 as research tools

Technology

Highly purified tubulin accompanied by MAPs  is isolated from porcine brains after repeated cycles of temperature-dependent disassembly and reassembly. Tubulin and the different MAPs are seperated by ion exchange chromatography, ultracentrifugation, and ultrafiltration.  Biological activity is tested in vitro by a standard assembly assay based on the property of tau and MAP2 to promote microtubule formation from pure tubulin.

Commercial Opportunity

Highly purified tubulin, tau protein and MAP2 are offered as research tools for laboratory uses.