AICD Plasmids

AICD Plasmids are genetic constructs designed to express the Amyloid Precursor Protein Intracellular Domain (AICD) in various cell types. AICD is a fragment of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) that is generated through proteolytic processing and is implicated in cellular signaling, gene expression regulation, and Alzheimer's disease pathology.

Key Features

• AICD Gene: The plasmid contains the gene sequence encoding the AICD fragment. This sequence can be optimized for enhanced expression in different host cells.
• Promoters: Strong promoters (e.g., CMV, EF1α) are included to drive high-level expression of the AICD gene.
• Selectable Markers: Antibiotic resistance genes (e.g., ampicillin, kanamycin) enable the selection of successfully transformed cells.
• Multiple Cloning Sites (MCS): Allow the insertion of the AICD gene and other sequences of interest into the plasmid vector.
• Fusion Tags: Some plasmids include tags (e.g., GFP, His-tag) for easy purification and visualization of AICD.

Applications

• Alzheimer's Disease Research: Study the role of AICD in Alzheimer's disease pathology, including its effects on gene expression and cellular signaling pathways.
• Gene Regulation Studies: Investigate how AICD influences the expression of various genes and its involvement in transcriptional regulation.
• Cell Signaling: Explore the signaling pathways modulated by AICD and its interactions with other cellular proteins.
• Neurobiology: Assess the broader implications of AICD in neuronal function and health.

Methodology

• Cloning: Insert the AICD gene into the plasmid vector using molecular cloning techniques such as restriction enzyme digestion and ligation.
• Transformation: Introduce the plasmid into bacterial cells for propagation and amplification.
• Transfection: Deliver the plasmid into mammalian cells to express the AICD protein.
• Analysis: Use techniques such as Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, qPCR, and reporter assays to study AICD expression, localization, and function.