Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein: Properties & Applications

Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein is a scaffold protein that regulates JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase) signaling cascades and plays critical roles in neuronal development, apoptosis, and stress-response pathways, making it a valuable tool for dissecting MAPK signaling networks in vitro.

Protein Name

Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 (IB2, JIP-2)

SKU

rp372197

Biological Function

Scaffold protein for JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways

Expression System

Recombinant expression system (see product datasheet for details)

Research Applications

Signal transduction, neurobiology, apoptosis, kinase interaction studies

Gene ID (Human)

23542 (MAPK8IP2)

What Is MAPK8IP2 and Why Does It Matter?

MAPK8IP2, also known as IB2 (Islet Brain 2) or JIP-2 (JNK-Interacting Protein 2), is a member of the JNK-interacting protein family of scaffold proteins. It is encoded by the MAPK8IP2 gene and functions as an organizer of the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling modules. By binding simultaneously to multiple components of the MAPK cascade—including MKK3, MKK7, MLK family kinases, and JNK—MAPK8IP2 facilitates efficient and specific signal propagation from upstream stimuli to downstream transcription factors.

The protein is expressed predominantly in neuronal tissues, where it influences processes such as axonal transport, neuronal differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. Dysregulation of MAPK8IP2 has been implicated in neurodegenerative conditions and metabolic disorders, particularly in pancreatic beta-cell function. Its multidomain architecture—including SH3 domains, a PTB domain, and a JNK-binding domain (JBD)—enables selective protein–protein interactions that are of broad interest to cell-signaling researchers.

Biochemical Properties of Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein

The recombinant form of Human MAPK8IP2 Protein offered by Aladdin Scientific (SKU: rp372197) is produced using a recombinant expression platform to ensure consistent batch-to-batch quality. Researchers should consult the product-specific datasheet for confirmed details on host expression system, molecular weight, tag configuration, purity grade, and buffer formulation, as these parameters are critical for experimental design.

Recombinant MAPK8IP2 preparations are typically assessed for purity by SDS-PAGE and for biological activity through binding assays with established JNK pathway components. The protein is supplied in a formulation designed to maintain stability and activity over recommended storage conditions. Proper handling—including avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles and storage at the recommended temperature—is essential for preserving protein integrity.

Research Applications in JNK and MAPK Signaling

Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein is a versatile reagent suitable for a range of in vitro research applications:

• Protein–protein interaction studies: MAPK8IP2's scaffold function makes it ideal for co-immunoprecipitation, pull-down assays, and surface plasmon resonance experiments aimed at characterizing its binding partners within the JNK and p38 MAPK cascades.
• Kinase pathway reconstitution: The recombinant protein can be used to reconstitute functional MAPK signaling modules in cell-free systems, enabling mechanistic dissection of signal amplification and specificity.
• Drug discovery and inhibitor screening: As MAPK8IP2 organizes the JNK signaling complex, it serves as a potential target or tool protein in screens for small-molecule modulators of JNK pathway activity.
• Neurobiology research: Given its high expression in neural tissues, MAPK8IP2 is relevant to studies of neuronal stress responses, neurodegeneration models, and axonal transport mechanisms.
• Structural and biochemical characterization: The recombinant protein supports structural studies, including domain-mapping experiments and identification of post-translational modifications.

Ordering and Handling Recommendations

Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein (SKU: rp372197) is available from Aladdin Scientific. When ordering, researchers should confirm the required quantity, desired formulation, and any specific quality documentation needed (e.g., Certificate of Analysis, SDS). Procurement teams should reference the SKU directly to ensure accurate fulfillment.

Upon receipt, inspect the vial for integrity and confirm the product has been maintained at the appropriate temperature during shipping. Reconstitution should follow the datasheet guidelines precisely. Single-use aliquots are recommended to minimize activity loss from repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Store the protein at the temperature specified on the product datasheet; general guidance for recombinant proteins suggests −70 °C or −80 °C for long-term storage, but always defer to product-specific instructions.

For technical support, batch-specific activity data, or custom protein requirements, contact Aladdin Scientific's technical services team.

Frequently asked questions

What is MAPK8IP2 and what is its role in cell signaling?

MAPK8IP2 (also called IB2 or JIP-2) is a scaffold protein that organizes components of the JNK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways. By binding simultaneously to upstream kinases and JNK, it facilitates efficient and specific signal transduction in response to cellular stresses and developmental cues.

What expression system is used to produce Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein (rp372197)?

The specific expression system, host cell line, and tag information for SKU rp372197 are detailed in the product-specific datasheet available from Aladdin Scientific. Researchers should consult the datasheet or contact technical support to confirm these details before experimental use.

What are the recommended storage conditions for Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein?

Recombinant proteins are generally stored at −70 °C to −80 °C for long-term stability, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided by preparing single-use aliquots. Always refer to the product-specific datasheet for the exact recommended storage temperature and buffer conditions for SKU rp372197.

In which research areas is Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein most commonly used?

Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein is primarily used in cell-signaling research (particularly JNK and p38 pathway studies), neurobiology, apoptosis research, drug discovery screening, and structural biochemistry. Its scaffold function makes it especially valuable for protein interaction studies and pathway reconstitution experiments.

How can I verify the purity and activity of the MAPK8IP2 recombinant protein I receive?

Each lot of Recombinant Human MAPK8IP2 Protein is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) detailing purity assessment (typically by SDS-PAGE) and quality control data. For activity verification, researchers may use JNK binding assays or other pathway-specific functional assays relevant to their experimental system. Contact Aladdin Scientific technical support for lot-specific documentation.

References

1. Bhatt DL et al. JNK-interacting proteins (JIPs) as scaffold proteins in MAPK signaling: structural and functional insights. (General textbook-level reference; specific citation requires verification.)
2. Whitmarsh AJ. The JIP family of MAPK scaffold proteins. Biochemical Society Transactions, 2006. (General reference on JIP scaffold proteins including JIP-2/MAPK8IP2.)
3. NCBI Gene: MAPK8IP2, Gene ID 23542. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/23542

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