Grp78/BiP (hamster), (recombinant)

Grp78, a 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein also known as BiP or immunoglobulin heavy chain binding protein, is a stress-response protein induced by agents or conditions that adversely affect endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function. This protein is essential for the proper glycosylation, folding and assembly of many membrane bound and secreted proteins. Grp78 is critical for maintenance of cell homeostasis and the prevention of apoptosis. Grp78 protein levels provide a reliable biomarker of hypoglycemia as well as serve a neuroprotective function in neurons exposed to glutamate and oxidative stress. Reduced Grp78 levels occur in the brains of Alzheimer’s Disease patients, and decreased Grp78 expression appears to be associated with missense mutations in the human presenilin-1 (PS1) gene. The induction of the Grp78 protein is associated with the development of drug-resistance to anti-tumor drugs.