Cloning, prokaryotic expression of cattle Ghrelin gene and biological activity detection of the expressed protein

Abstract:

The cDNA of cattle Ghrelin gene was amplified from abomasum fundic gland mRNA of Qinchuan Cattle by RT-PCR. PCR product was cloned into the T vector pGEM-T to construct pGh-T1 for sequencing. Then the cDNA was subcloned into the prokaryotic expressing plasmid vector pET32a(+) and transformed into host Escherichia coli strain BL2l (DE3) for expression. The expression of pGh-32 mature Ghrelin protein was induced by IPTG and was identified by SDS-PAGE. The expression product was observed with soluble protein and inclusion body. Western-blotting showed that the recombinant protein was recognized by his-antibody specifically. The protein was purified by Ni-NTA column and was used to inject rabbits to obtain polyclona antibody. ELISA result showed that the antibody titer was 1:12 800. The immunohistochemistry test between the hypothalamus arcuate nucleus and the antibody showed that fusion protein had biological activity. This will provide a basis for further study on the biological function of Ghrelin protein to growth and development and fat deposition of cattle.