Recombinant Human IFITM1 protein

Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 1 (IFITM1) is a member of the IFITM family, which plays critical roles in innate immunity, particularly in restricting viral infections. Encoded by an interferon-stimulated gene (ISG), IFITM1 is upregulated in response to interferons (IFNs) during viral or bacterial challenges. It is a small, single-pass transmembrane protein localized to endolysosomal and plasma membranes, where it disrupts viral entry by altering membrane fluidity or trapping viral particles in intracellular compartments. IFITM1 is notably effective against enveloped viruses, including influenza, dengue, Zika, and coronaviruses, though its activity varies across pathogens.

Recombinant IFITM1 protein is engineered using expression systems like *E. coli* or mammalian cells to study its structure, antiviral mechanisms, and interactions. Its production enables detailed biochemical analyses, such as mapping domains responsible for membrane curvature modulation or viral restriction. Recombinant forms are also used to develop therapeutic strategies, such as enhancing cellular antiviral defenses or designing peptide mimics. However, challenges persist in maintaining its native conformation post-purification due to its transmembrane nature and lipid-dependent functionality.

Beyond virology, IFITM1 is implicated in cancer, where it exhibits dual roles—either suppressing metastasis by inhibiting cell migration or promoting tumor growth via immune evasion. Recombinant IFITM1 aids in deciphering these context-dependent effects, offering insights into tissue-specific signaling pathways. Despite progress, unresolved questions remain about its regulation, post-translational modifications, and species-specific antiviral spectra. Ongoing research leverages recombinant IFITM1 to address these gaps, bridging fundamental biology with translational applications in infectious diseases and oncology.