Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein: FAQs & Key Facts

Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein is a eukaryotically or prokaryotically expressed, highly purified form of human G protein-coupled receptor kinase 1—also known as rhodopsin kinase—used widely in GPCR desensitization studies, phototransduction research, and kinase activity assays.

Product Name

Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein

SKU

rp377327

Also Known As

Rhodopsin kinase; GPCR kinase 1; GRK1

Protein Family

G protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK) family, AGC kinase superfamily

Primary Research Applications

Phototransduction, GPCR desensitization, kinase activity assays, Oguchi disease research

Supplier

Aladdin Scientific

What Is GRK1 and Why Is It Important?

GRK1, or G protein-coupled receptor kinase 1, is commonly referred to as rhodopsin kinase. It belongs to the GRK subfamily of the AGC kinase superfamily and is primarily expressed in retinal photoreceptor cells. GRK1 plays a critical role in the rapid desensitization of light-activated rhodopsin, a key step in the phototransduction cascade that allows the visual system to adapt to changing light conditions.

Upon light activation, rhodopsin undergoes a conformational change that enables it to activate the G protein transducin. GRK1 phosphorylates multiple serine and threonine residues in the C-terminal tail of activated rhodopsin, promoting the subsequent binding of arrestin and terminating receptor signaling. Loss-of-function mutations in GRK1 are associated with Oguchi disease, a rare form of congenital stationary night blindness, underscoring the enzyme's physiological importance.

Beyond its role in vision, GRK1 has attracted interest as a model kinase for studying GPCR regulation mechanisms broadly applicable across receptor biology.

Typical Research Applications of Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein

Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein (rp377327) is employed across a variety of in vitro research contexts:

• Kinase Activity Assays: Used to measure phosphorylation of rhodopsin or synthetic peptide substrates, enabling characterization of GRK1 enzymatic activity and screening of potential inhibitors or activators.
• Phototransduction Studies: Serves as a key component in reconstituted in vitro systems that model the phototransduction cascade, helping researchers dissect the molecular mechanisms of visual signal termination.
• GPCR Desensitization Research: Provides a well-characterized kinase for studying the phosphorylation-dependent desensitization of GPCRs, with relevance to drug discovery for visual and neurological disorders.
• Structural and Biochemical Studies: Can be used for binding assays, co-immunoprecipitation studies, and structural analyses to elucidate GRK1 interactions with substrates, regulatory lipids, or inhibitor molecules.
• Disease Mechanism Research: Supports mechanistic investigations into Oguchi disease and other retinal pathologies linked to aberrant GRK1 activity.

Storage, Handling, and Reconstitution Guidelines

Proper storage and handling of Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein are essential to preserve enzymatic activity and protein integrity. The following are general best-practice guidelines; always refer to the specific product datasheet for confirmed conditions for SKU rp377327:

• Storage Temperature: Recombinant proteins are generally stored at −20 °C for short-term use or −80 °C for long-term preservation. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as these can denature the protein and reduce activity.
• Aliquoting: Upon first thaw, prepare single-use aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw cycles.
• Reconstitution: If supplied lyophilized, reconstitute using the buffer and volume specified on the datasheet, typically sterile water or a supplied reconstitution buffer. Allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature before reconstitution and mix gently; do not vortex.
• Working Concentration: Determine optimal working concentrations empirically for each assay type. Refer to the product datasheet for recommended starting concentrations.
• Carrier Protein: Addition of a carrier protein such as BSA (0.1–0.2%) to storage buffer may help maintain stability during prolonged storage.

Note: Specific buffer composition, concentration, and storage conditions for rp377327 should be confirmed on the official Aladdin Scientific product datasheet.

Quality, Purity, and Validation

Aladdin Scientific's Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein is manufactured and quality-controlled to meet the demands of rigorous in vitro research. Key quality attributes typically assessed for recombinant kinase proteins include:

• Purity: Assessed by SDS-PAGE and/or HPLC to confirm protein homogeneity. High-purity preparations minimize background interference in kinase assays.
• Identity Confirmation: Verified by Western blot using anti-GRK1 antibodies or by mass spectrometry to confirm correct protein sequence.
• Biological Activity: Kinase activity is assessed using standard phosphorylation assays with appropriate substrates (e.g., rhodopsin or peptide substrates), confirming the protein is enzymatically active as supplied.
• Endotoxin Testing: Endotoxin levels are typically measured using the LAL assay to ensure suitability for cell-based and sensitive biochemical experiments.

Note: Specific purity percentages, activity units, and lot-specific quality control data for rp377327 should be obtained from the official product datasheet or by contacting Aladdin Scientific technical support. Review flags have been noted for specific numerical claims.

Ordering, Shipping, and Returns for rp377327

Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein (rp377327) is available for order through Aladdin Scientific's online platform or by contacting our sales team directly. Key logistical information:

• Ordering: Place orders online via the Aladdin Scientific website or submit a purchase order to your regional sales representative. Bulk and custom quantity inquiries are welcome.
• Shipping: Recombinant proteins are temperature-sensitive and are shipped on dry ice or with appropriate cold-chain packaging to maintain product integrity during transit. Shipping conditions comply with applicable regulations for biological reagents.
• Lead Times: Standard lead times apply for in-stock items; please contact Aladdin Scientific customer service for current stock status and estimated delivery times for rp377327.
• Returns and Refunds: Returns are subject to Aladdin Scientific's standard returns and refund policy. Products must be returned in original condition and within the stipulated timeframe. Please contact customer service for return authorization prior to shipping.
• Payment and Pricing: Pricing information is available on the product page for rp377327. Various payment methods and institutional purchase order options are supported. Promotional pricing, volume discounts, and reward points may apply—please consult the Aladdin Scientific website or your sales representative for current promotions.

Frequently asked questions

What is GRK1 and what does it do in cells?

GRK1 (G protein-coupled receptor kinase 1), also called rhodopsin kinase, is a serine/threonine kinase predominantly expressed in retinal rod photoreceptor cells. Its primary function is to phosphorylate light-activated rhodopsin, initiating receptor desensitization by facilitating arrestin binding and shutting off phototransduction signaling. Loss of GRK1 activity leads to Oguchi disease, a form of congenital stationary night blindness.

What is the recommended storage condition for Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein (rp377327)?

As a general guideline for recombinant proteins, Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein should be stored at −80 °C for long-term preservation and −20 °C for short-term use. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided to maintain activity; single-use aliquots are strongly recommended. Always consult the official product datasheet for rp377327 for confirmed buffer composition and storage specifications.

What research applications is Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein suitable for?

Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein is suitable for in vitro kinase activity assays, GPCR desensitization and phototransduction studies, inhibitor screening, binding assays, and structural/biochemical characterization of the GRK1 enzyme. It is also used in mechanistic research on retinal diseases such as Oguchi disease. Confirm specific validated applications on the rp377327 product datasheet.

How should I reconstitute lyophilized Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein?

If rp377327 is supplied in lyophilized form, allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature before opening. Reconstitute using sterile water or the recommended reconstitution buffer as specified on the product datasheet, and gently swirl or pipette to mix—do not vortex. Prepare aliquots immediately after reconstitution and store as directed to minimize degradation.

Does Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein have verified enzymatic activity?

Recombinant proteins offered by Aladdin Scientific are typically quality-tested for biological activity prior to release; kinase activity for GRK1 preparations is generally assessed using phosphorylation assays with relevant substrates. For lot-specific activity data and detailed quality control information for rp377327, please refer to the product datasheet or contact Aladdin Scientific technical support.

How do I place an order for rp377327 and what payment options are available?

You can order Recombinant Human GRK1 Protein (rp377327) directly through the Aladdin Scientific website or by contacting your regional sales representative. Aladdin Scientific supports multiple payment methods including institutional purchase orders. Volume discounts and promotional pricing may be available; please visit the website or speak with a sales representative for current pricing and promotions.

References

1. Palczewski K. GTP-binding-protein-coupled receptor kinases—two mechanistic models. Eur J Biochem. 1997;248(2):261-269.
2. Sterne-Marr R, Bhattacharya S, Bhattacharya S. G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2/G beta gamma interactions. Meth Enzymol. 2002;343:498-512.
3. Khani SC, Nielsen L, Vogt TM. Biochemical evidence for pathogenicity of rhodopsin kinase mutations correlated with the oguchi form of congenital stationary night blindness. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 1998;95(6):2824-2827.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.