Recombinant Human vHL protein

The von Hippel-Lindau (vHL) protein is a tumor suppressor encoded by the *VHL* gene, mutations of which are linked to von Hippel-Lindau disease, a hereditary cancer syndrome predisposing individuals to renal cell carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, and hemangioblastomas. The vHL protein plays a critical role in cellular oxygen sensing by forming part of an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that targets hypoxia-inducible factor-alpha (HIF-α) for proteasomal degradation under normoxic conditions. This regulation prevents HIF-mediated activation of genes promoting angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and survival.

Recombinant vHL protein is engineered using expression systems like *E. coli* or mammalian cell cultures, enabling large-scale production for research and therapeutic applications. Its purified form retains functional domains, including the α-domain for binding elongin C and the β-domain for substrate recognition (e.g., HIF-α). Researchers utilize recombinant vHL to study molecular mechanisms of tumor suppression, hypoxia signaling, and protein-protein interactions. It is also vital in drug discovery, particularly for cancers with *VHL* mutations, aiding in screening compounds that restore vHL function or inhibit HIF pathways.

Additionally, recombinant vHL variants (e.g., truncations or disease-associated mutants) help elucidate structure-function relationships and pathogenicity. Its role in extracellular matrix stability and apoptosis regulation further expands its relevance in biomedical studies. By providing a controlled, high-purity protein source, recombinant vHL accelerates advancements in understanding cancer biology and developing targeted therapies.