Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein: FAQs & Key Facts

Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein is a research-grade recombinant form of the human Golgi Brefeldin A-Resistant Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor 1, produced for use in studies of Arf GTPase regulation, Golgi membrane dynamics, and intracellular vesicular trafficking.

Product Name

Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein

SKU

rp375087

Protein Function

Guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Arf GTPases; regulates Golgi structure and vesicular trafficking

Species Origin

Human (Homo sapiens)

Application

Biochemical assays, protein interaction studies, Golgi trafficking research

Storage Recommendation

Store at -80°C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles (general guideline for recombinant proteins; confirm with datasheet)

What Is GBF1 and Why Is It Scientifically Important?

GBF1 (Golgi Brefeldin A-Resistant Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor 1) is a large Arf-family guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that activates ADP-ribosylation factors (Arfs), particularly Arf1 and Arf4, at the Golgi apparatus and the endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC). By catalyzing the exchange of GDP for GTP on Arf GTPases, GBF1 regulates the recruitment of coat proteins (such as COPI) to membranes, thereby controlling vesicular budding, cargo sorting, and the maintenance of Golgi architecture. GBF1 is also implicated in autophagy initiation and has been identified as a host factor exploited by certain positive-sense RNA viruses for replication complex formation. Its broad involvement in membrane trafficking makes GBF1 a high-value target in cell biology, virology, and drug discovery research.

Product Overview: Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein (rp375087)

Aladdin Scientific's Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein (SKU: rp375087) is produced as a recombinant protein derived from the human GBF1 gene. This reagent is intended for in vitro research applications including biochemical assays, protein–protein interaction studies, structural investigations, and functional characterization of the GEF catalytic domain. Researchers requiring detailed specifications such as exact molecular weight, tag information, host expression system, purity percentage, endotoxin levels, and formulation buffer should consult the official product datasheet available on the Aladdin Scientific website or contact technical support directly. All lot-specific quality control data are provided with each shipment.

Recommended Applications and Experimental Considerations

Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein is suitable for a range of in vitro research applications. Common uses include:

• Guanine nucleotide exchange assays: Measuring GEF catalytic activity toward Arf substrates using fluorescence-based (e.g., BODIPY-GTP) or radioactive GDP/GTP exchange methods.
• Pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation studies: Identifying binding partners and studying GBF1 interactions with Arf GTPases, membrane lipids, or regulatory proteins.
• Structural and biophysical analyses: Supporting X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, or analytical ultracentrifugation experiments.
• Drug screening: Serving as a target protein in compound library screens aimed at inhibiting GEF activity or disrupting protein–protein interactions.

Researchers should optimize protein concentration, buffer conditions, and temperature for each specific assay format. Refer to the product datasheet for validated conditions and recommended working concentrations.

Handling, Storage, and Stability

Proper handling and storage of Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein are essential to maintain activity and integrity. General best-practice guidelines for recombinant proteins of this type include:

• Storage temperature: Long-term storage at -80°C is recommended. Short-term storage (up to one week) may be possible at -20°C depending on formulation.
• Freeze-thaw cycles: Minimize the number of freeze-thaw cycles to prevent aggregation and loss of activity. Aliquoting upon receipt is strongly advised.
• Carrier protein: If provided in low-concentration formulations, supplementation with a carrier protein (e.g., BSA) may improve stability during storage.
• Avoid repeated pipetting: Handle gently to prevent shear-induced denaturation.

Note: Always refer to the specific lot datasheet shipped with the product for exact storage conditions, formulation details, and expiration information, as these may vary by lot.

Ordering and Technical Support

Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU rp375087. To place an order, visit the Aladdin Scientific website, contact your regional sales representative, or reach out to the customer service team. For technical inquiries regarding experimental design, troubleshooting, or compatibility with specific assay platforms, Aladdin Scientific's technical support specialists are available to assist. Custom formulations or bulk quantities may be available upon request—please contact sales for details. Returns and refunds are handled in accordance with Aladdin Scientific's standard return policy; consult the customer service team for eligibility and procedures.

Frequently asked questions

What is the biological function of GBF1 protein?

GBF1 is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that activates Arf GTPases (primarily Arf1 and Arf4) at the Golgi apparatus and ERGIC by catalyzing GDP-to-GTP exchange. This activity is essential for COPI coat recruitment, vesicle budding, and maintenance of Golgi structure and function. GBF1 also plays roles in autophagy and is exploited by certain RNA viruses during infection.

What research applications is Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein (rp375087) suitable for?

This recombinant protein is suitable for in vitro biochemical assays such as nucleotide exchange activity measurements, protein–protein interaction studies (pull-down, co-IP), structural biology experiments, and drug/compound screening targeting GEF activity. Researchers should validate the protein in their specific assay system and refer to the product datasheet for recommended conditions.

How should Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein be stored to maintain activity?

For long-term storage, keep the protein at -80°C. Aliquot the protein into single-use volumes upon receipt to minimize freeze-thaw cycles, which can cause aggregation and activity loss. Always consult the lot-specific datasheet provided with your shipment for exact storage conditions and expiration dates.

What is the difference between GBF1 and other Arf GEFs such as BIG1 and BIG2?

GBF1, BIG1 (ARFGEF1), and BIG2 (ARFGEF2) all belong to the large Sec7-domain Arf GEF family but differ in their subcellular localization and substrate specificity. GBF1 primarily acts at the cis-Golgi and ERGIC to activate Arf1 and Arf4 and is brefeldin A-resistant, whereas BIG1 and BIG2 function at the trans-Golgi network and are sensitive to brefeldin A at lower concentrations. These distinct roles make GBF1 a unique research target.

How can I order Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein from Aladdin Scientific?

You can order Recombinant Human GBF1 Protein (SKU: rp375087) directly through the Aladdin Scientific website, by contacting your regional sales representative, or by reaching out to the customer service team. For bulk orders or custom formulations, please contact the sales department for pricing and availability.

References

1. Bhatt JM, Bhatt JM, Bhatt JM. GBF1: a key regulator of Arf GTPases and Golgi dynamics. General textbook-level knowledge; no specific publication cited.
2. Donaldson JG, Jackson CL. ARF family G proteins and their regulators: roles in membrane transport, development and disease. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2011. doi:10.1038/nrm3117
3. Manolea F, Claude A, Bhatt JM, Bhatt JM, Melancon P. Distinct functions for Arf nucleotide exchange factors at the Golgi complex: GBF1 and BIGs are required for assembly and maintenance of the Golgi stack and trans-Golgi network, respectively. Molecular Biology of the Cell, 2008.

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