Recombinant Human MDA5 protein (ab112423)

RNA helicase that, through its ATP-dependent unwinding of RNA, may function to promote message degradation by specific RNases. Seems to have growth suppressive properties. Involved in innate immune defense against viruses. Upon interaction with intracellular dsRNA produced during viral replication, triggers a transduction cascade involving MAVS/IPS1, which results in the activation of NF-kappa-B, IRF3 and IRF7 and the induction of the expression of antiviral cytokines such as IFN-beta and RANTES (CCL5). ATPase activity is specifically induced by dsRNA. Essential for the production of interferons in response to picornaviruses.

Widely expressed, at a low level. Expression is detected at slightly highest levels in placenta, pancreas and spleen and at barely levels in detectable brain, testis and lung.

Genetic variation in IFIH1 is associated with diabetes mellitus insulin-dependent type 19 (IDDM19) [MIM:610155]. A multifactorial disorder of glucose homeostasis that is characterized by susceptibility to ketoacidosis in the absence of insulin therapy. Clinical fetaures are polydipsia, polyphagia and polyuria which result from hyperglycemia-induced osmotic diuresis and secondary thirst. These derangements result in long-term complications that affect the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels.
Note=IFIH1 is the CADM-140 autoantigen, involved in clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM). This is a chronic inflammatory disorder that shows typical skin manifestations of dermatomyositis but has no or little evidence of clinical myositis. Anti-CADM-140 antibodies appear to be specific to dermatomyositis, especially CADM. Patients with anti-CADM-140 antibodies frequently develop life-threatening acute progressive interstitial lung disease (ILD).

Belongs to the helicase family.
Contains 2 CARD domains.
Contains 1 helicase ATP-binding domain.
Contains 1 helicase C-terminal domain.

During apoptosis, processed into 3 cleavage products. The helicase-containing fragment, once liberated from the CARD domains, translocate from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. The processed protein significantly sensitizes cells to DNA degradation.

Cytoplasm. Nucleus. May be found in the nucleus, during apoptosis.