Recombinant, human C-reactive protein expressed in E. coli. CRP is a major acute-phase plasma protein that is dramatically elevated in patients with acute-phase conditions. Composed of five identical noncovalently linked subunits. Exhibits Ca2+-dependent binding to a variety of substrates. Important in diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Suitable for immunological studies. In purified states and in plasma the monomeric form (M.W. ~21 kDa) aggregates as a cyclic pentamer.
C-reactive protein (CRP) plays a key role in the complement pathway, apoptosis, phagocytosis, nitric oxide (NO) release, and the production of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. It participates in the uptake of low-density lipoprotein in macrophages. CRP levels are elevated in people suffering from appendicitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and meningitis. It plays a vital role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. Hence it is used as a marker of infection and cardiovascular events.
