Products Description
Melittin Peptide Powder: Nature's Potent Bioactive Agent
Melittin Peptide Powder is the principal active component of European honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom, comprising approximately 50% of its dry weight. This potent 26-amino acid peptide is renowned for its unique amphipathic structure and diverse biological activities. While historically studied for its hemolytic and cytotoxic properties, contemporary research focuses on its potential therapeutic applications in areas including immunology, oncology, and antimicrobial therapy. Our high-purity Melittin Powder is strictly for research purposes, offering scientists a tool to explore novel biological mechanisms [1].
Biophysical & Chemical Parameters Table
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Melittin Peptide Powder |
| CAS Number | 20449-79-0 |
| Sequence | Gly-Ile-Gly-Ala-Val-Leu-Lys-Val-Leu-Thr-Thr-Gly-Leu-Pro-Ala-Leu-Ile-Ser-Trp-Ile-Lys-Arg-Lys-Arg-Gln-Gln |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₃₁H₂₂₉N₃₉O₃₁ |
| Molecular Weight | 2846.46 g/mol |
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥ 98% |
| Appearance | White to off-white lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and saline |
Mechanism of Action: A Multi-Target Bioactive Peptide
Melittin's biological activity stems from its unique structure and interaction with cell membranes.
- Membrane Interaction & Lysis: The peptide's amphipathic alpha-helical structure allows it to embed into lipid bilayers. At high concentrations, it forms transmembrane pores that disrupt membrane integrity, leading to cell lysis [2].
- Phospholipase A2 Activation: Melittin acts as a potent activator of endogenous phospholipase A2 (PLA2), synergistically enhancing the enzymatic breakdown of phospholipids and amplifying inflammatory and signaling responses [3].
- Intracellular Signaling Modulation: Beyond membrane disruption, research indicates melittin can inhibit calmodulin activity and various protein kinases, while also potentially activating phospholipase C, thereby influencing multiple intracellular signaling pathways relevant to cell proliferation and inflammation [4].
Research Applications & Potential Benefits
- Immunological Research: Investigated for its ability to modulate immune cell function and cytokine production, with potential implications for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions [5].
- Microbiological Studies: Demonstrates broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses in preclinical models, primarily through membrane disruption mechanisms.
- Oncological Investigation: Studied for its cytotoxic effects on various cancer cell lines, with research exploring its potential as a selective agent in targeted therapies.
- Neuroscientific Exploration: Being examined for its neuro-modulatory and neuro-protective properties in specific experimental contexts.
Research Formulation Guidance
For laboratory use only. Not for human or veterinary consumption.
- Solubilization: Reconstitute in sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or deionized water to prepare a stock solution (e.g., 1 mg/mL).
- In Vitro Applications: For cell culture studies, serial dilutions from the stock solution are recommended to determine appropriate working concentrations for specific cell lines.
- Control Experiments: Always include proper controls to account for potential membrane-disruptive effects in experimental designs.
- Stability: Store lyophilized powder at -20°C. Aliquot reconstituted solutions to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and store at -80°C for long-term stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the primary research focus for Melittin today?
A: Current research primarily explores its targeted therapeutic potential, particularly in developing melittin-based conjugates for specific cell targeting in oncology and its role as an immunomodulatory agent, moving beyond its historical characterization as a general cytolysin [5].
Q: How does Melittin's purity impact research outcomes?
A: High purity (>95%) is crucial for reproducible experimental results, ensuring that observed biological effects are attributable to melittin itself rather than impurities or related peptides that may be present in crude venom preparations.
Q: What safety precautions are necessary when handling Melittin?
A: Researchers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, lab coat, and eye protection. Use caution when handling the powder and solutions, especially at high concentrations, due to its potent membrane-disruptive activity.
Q: Can Melittin be used in drug delivery system research?
A: Yes, its membrane-interactive properties make it a subject of interest in designing drug delivery mechanisms, such as in liposomal formulations or as a component of targeted toxin therapies, though these applications are strictly investigational.
Q: How should the powder be stored?
A: The lyophilized powder should be stored desiccated at -20°C. Reconstituted solutions should be aliquoted and stored at -80°C to maintain stability and prevent microbial growth.
Contact Us
Advance your investigative studies with high-purity Melittin Peptide Powder, a versatile tool for exploring membrane biology, immunology, and novel therapeutic strategies.
Contact us today to request a certificate of analysis, discuss your specific research requirements, and place an order. E-mail: ella.zhang@huilinbio-tech.com.
References
- Habermann, E. (1972). Bee and wasp venoms. Science, 177(4046), 314-322.
- Raghuraman, H., & Chattopadhyay, A. (2007). Melittin: a membrane-active peptide with diverse functions. Bioscience Reports, 27(4-5), 189-223.
- Shkenderov, S., & Koburova, K. (1982). Adolapin--a newly isolated analgetic and anti-inflammatory polypeptide from bee venom. Toxicon, 20(1), 317-321.
- Gajski, G., & Garaj-Vrhovac, V. (2013). Melittin: a lytic peptide with anticancer properties. Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 36(2), 697-705.
- Lee, G., & Bae, H. (2016). Anti-inflammatory applications of melittin, a major component of bee venom: Detailed mechanism of action and adverse effects. Molecules, 21(5), 616.
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