This gene encodes a subunit of the asialoglycoprotein receptor. This receptor is a transmembrane protein that plays a critical role in serum glycoprotein homeostasis by mediating the endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of glycoproteins with exposed terminal galactose or N-acetylgalactosamine residues. The asialoglycoprotein receptor may facilitate hepatic infection by multiple viruses including hepatitis B, and is also a target for liver-specific drug delivery. The asialoglycoprotein receptor is a hetero-oligomeric protein composed of major and minor subunits, which are encoded by different genes. The protein encoded by ASGR1 gene is the more abundant major subunit. Recent data indicated that ASGR1 variant (Haploinsufficiency) is associated with reduced levels of non-HDL cholesterol and a reduced risk of coronary artery disease.

Full-length extracellular domain of human ASGR1 cDNA (62 – 291 aa) was constructed with codon optimization and expressed with N-terminal T7-His-TEV cleavage site Tag (29aa) fusion. This protein was expressed in E. coli as inclusion bodies. The final product was refolded using our unique “temperature shift inclusion body refolding” technology and chromatographically purified.

1. May be used for in vitro ASGR1 mediated desialylated protein endocytosis and lysosomal degradation pathway regulation study for human liver cells with this protein either as soluble factor or as coating matrix protein.

2. May be used for protein-protein interaction mapping.

3. Potential therapeutic protein for drug development, which may reduce atherosclerotic dieases.

4. As immunogen for specific antibody production.