Recombinant Human KLC3 protein

KLC3 (kinesin light chain 3) is a member of the kinesin superfamily, which plays a critical role in intracellular transport by mediating the movement of cargoes along microtubules. As a regulatory subunit of the kinesin-1 motor complex, KLC3 interacts with the heavy chain (KHC) to facilitate the binding and transport of specific organelles, vesicles, and protein complexes. It is particularly noted for its involvement in spermatogenesis, where it participates in the structural organization of the sperm flagellum and acrosome formation. Dysregulation of KLC3 has been linked to male infertility and certain cancers, underscoring its biological significance.

Recombinant KLC3 protein is engineered using heterologous expression systems, such as *E. coli* or mammalian cell lines, to produce purified, functional protein for mechanistic studies. Researchers often clone the human *KLC3* gene into expression vectors, enabling controlled production with affinity tags (e.g., His-tag) for simplified purification. This recombinant approach allows for detailed investigations into KLC3’s structure, its interaction partners (e.g., kinesin heavy chains, cargo adaptors), and post-translational modifications that regulate its activity.

Studies leveraging recombinant KLC3 have advanced understanding of microtubule-dependent transport mechanisms, particularly in gamete development and neuronal trafficking. Its role in diseases, such as tumor metastasis linked to aberrant vesicle transport, has also been explored using in vitro assays and animal models. Additionally, recombinant KLC3 serves as a tool for screening therapeutic compounds targeting kinesin-mediated pathways. Ongoing research aims to elucidate its tissue-specific functions and potential as a biomarker or drug target, highlighting its relevance in both basic and applied biomedical sciences.