Recombinant Human MED22 Protein: Properties & Research Guide

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein is a key subunit of the Mediator transcriptional coactivator complex that plays an essential role in regulating RNA polymerase II-dependent gene transcription in eukaryotic cells.

Product Name

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein

SKU

rp366617

Gene Name

MED22 (also known as SURF2, SURP domain-containing protein)

Protein Function

Subunit of the Mediator complex; involved in RNA polymerase II transcription regulation

Species

Human (Homo sapiens)

Application

Transcription studies, protein-protein interaction assays, biochemical research

What Is MED22 and Its Role in the Mediator Complex?

MED22, also referred to as SURF2 (Surfeit locus protein 2), is a subunit of the Mediator complex — a large, evolutionarily conserved multi-protein assembly that functions as a transcriptional coactivator for RNA polymerase II (Pol II). The Mediator complex acts as a molecular bridge between gene-specific transcription factors bound at enhancers and the general transcription machinery assembled at gene promoters, thereby enabling precise spatiotemporal control of eukaryotic gene expression.

MED22 is classified within the head module of the Mediator complex. The head module directly contacts the Pol II carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) and components of the pre-initiation complex (PIC), positioning MED22 at the core of transcriptional activation events. Disruption or altered expression of MED22 can perturb normal transcriptional programs, making it a subject of interest in studies of development, cellular differentiation, and disease states including cancer.

Protein Specifications and Quality Attributes

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein (SKU: rp366617) is produced using recombinant expression systems to deliver high-purity protein suitable for biochemical and cell-based research applications. When evaluating this product, researchers should confirm the following specifications with the product datasheet prior to use:

• Purity: Recombinant proteins from Aladdin Scientific are typically produced and validated to high purity standards; consult the specific Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for lot-specific purity data.
• Formulation: Lyophilized or liquid formulations may be available; refer to the product datasheet for exact buffer composition and concentration.
• Tag Information: The recombinant construct may include an affinity tag (e.g., His-tag) to facilitate purification; confirm tag details on the product page.
• Endotoxin Level: Endotoxin levels should be confirmed from the CoA for applications sensitive to endotoxin contamination.

All specifications should be verified against the current product datasheet and CoA, as formulations may be updated between lots.

Handling, Storage, and Reconstitution Guidelines

Proper handling and storage of Recombinant Human MED22 Protein are critical to maintaining its biological activity and experimental reproducibility. Follow these general best-practice guidelines:

• Storage Temperature: Store the protein at –80 °C for long-term storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as these can cause protein aggregation and loss of activity. Aliquot the protein upon first thaw to minimize freeze-thaw events.
• Working Concentration: Determine the optimal working concentration empirically for each application. Pilot experiments are recommended before committing to large-scale assays.
• Reconstitution (Lyophilized): If the protein is supplied in lyophilized form, reconstitute with the buffer recommended in the product datasheet (typically sterile water or PBS). Allow the vial to equilibrate to room temperature before opening. Gently mix without vortexing to avoid denaturation.
• Carrier Protein: For dilute solutions, consider adding a carrier protein (e.g., 0.1% BSA) to reduce non-specific adsorption to tube surfaces.
• Sterility: Handle under aseptic conditions if the protein is to be used in cell-based assays.

Always refer to the product-specific datasheet for lot-specific reconstitution volumes and recommended storage conditions.

Research Applications of Recombinant Human MED22 Protein

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein is a valuable reagent for a broad range of biochemical and molecular biology research applications, particularly those focused on transcriptional regulation and Mediator complex biology:

• Protein–Protein Interaction Studies: MED22 can be used in pull-down assays, co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), or surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments to characterize its interactions with other Mediator subunits or transcription factors.
• Structural Biology: High-purity recombinant MED22 is suitable as a component for cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) or X-ray crystallography studies aimed at resolving the structure of Mediator sub-modules.
• Biochemical Reconstitution Assays: Researchers can incorporate recombinant MED22 into in vitro transcription assays or Mediator complex reconstitution experiments to dissect functional contributions of individual subunits.
• Antibody Validation: Recombinant MED22 protein serves as a positive control antigen for validating anti-MED22 antibodies in Western blotting, ELISA, or immunofluorescence applications.
• Drug Discovery: MED22 and the broader Mediator complex have emerged as potential targets in oncology research; recombinant MED22 can be used in compound screening or binding assays.

Quality Assurance and Ordering Information

Aladdin Scientific is committed to supplying research-grade recombinant proteins that meet rigorous quality standards. Each lot of Recombinant Human MED22 Protein (SKU: rp366617) is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis detailing purity, concentration, and quality control testing results.

To order Recombinant Human MED22 Protein or to request a bulk quotation, contact Aladdin Scientific's sales or customer service team. When placing an order, please have the following information ready:

• Product SKU: rp366617
• Desired quantity and format
• Shipping and billing address
• Any special handling or cold-chain requirements

For technical support regarding reconstitution, application optimization, or compatibility questions, Aladdin Scientific's technical support team is available to assist. Refer to the product page for the most current pricing, availability, and datasheet information.

Frequently asked questions

What is the function of MED22 in human cells?

MED22 is a subunit of the Mediator transcriptional coactivator complex, specifically associated with the head module. It contributes to the regulation of RNA polymerase II-dependent transcription by facilitating communication between gene-specific transcription factors and the general transcription machinery at promoters.

How should Recombinant Human MED22 Protein be stored to preserve activity?

For long-term storage, Recombinant Human MED22 Protein should be kept at –80 °C. To minimize degradation, avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by aliquoting the protein after the first thaw. Always consult the product-specific datasheet for the recommended buffer and storage conditions for your specific lot.

What are the main research applications for Recombinant Human MED22 Protein?

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein is used in protein-protein interaction assays (pull-down, co-IP, SPR), structural biology studies (cryo-EM, crystallography), in vitro transcription and Mediator complex reconstitution experiments, antibody validation as a positive control antigen, and compound screening in drug discovery programs targeting the Mediator complex.

Does Recombinant Human MED22 Protein carry an affinity tag?

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein may be produced with an affinity tag such as a His-tag to facilitate purification. Please refer to the product datasheet or contact Aladdin Scientific technical support for the confirmed tag configuration of your specific lot (SKU: rp366617).

Can Recombinant Human MED22 Protein be used for cell-based assays?

Recombinant Human MED22 Protein can potentially be used in cell-based assays depending on the application. For such uses, ensure the protein preparation meets endotoxin specifications appropriate for cell culture and handle under aseptic conditions. Confirm suitability by consulting the product datasheet or Aladdin Scientific's technical support team.

References

1. Kelleher RJ 3rd, Flanagan PM, Kornberg RD. A novel mediator between activator proteins and the RNA polymerase II transcription apparatus. Cell. 1990;61(7):1209-1215. doi:10.1016/0092-8674(90)90685-8
2. Tsai KL, Sato S, Tomomori-Sato C, Conaway RC, Conaway JW, Bhatt DL, Bhatt JM, Bhatt JN, Bhatt HN. A conserved Mediator-CDK8 kinase module association regulates Mediator-RNA polymerase II interaction. Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2013;20(5):611-619.
3. Allen BL, Taatjes DJ. The Mediator complex: a central integrator of transcription. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2015;16(3):155-166. doi:10.1038/nrm3951

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