Application
One of the main uses of LIF in research is in mouse embryonic stem cell culture maintenance. LIF is necessary to maintain the stem cells in an undifferentiated state while retaining their proliferative potential or pluripotency. Removal of LIF pushes stem cells toward differentiation.
Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) has been used to evaluate its effect on embryo development and aneuploidy in matured (IVM) human oocytes, in vitro.
Biochem/physiol Actions
Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) suppresses the differentiation of myoblasts. It also inhibits the activation of caspase-3 and blocks the reduction in Bcl-xL (B cell lymphoma) levels, thus, preventing doxorubicin-induced apoptosis. Along with transforming growth factor ?2 (TGF?2)/fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), LIF regulates nephrogenesis. It facilitates tubular regeneration following acute kidney failure. It plays a crucial role in neuroprotective pathways induced by preconditioning-induced oxidative stress. LIF is capable of maintaining the totipotency of embryonic stem cells. It is also involved in controlling the differentiation of embryonic stem cells, hematopoietic and neuronal cells.
General description
Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) gene is mapped on the human chromosome at 22q12.2.
Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a secreted pleiotropic glycoprotein which is a member of the gp130 signaling of interleukin-6 (IL-6) family cytokines. This protein was originally identified as a protein that prevented the growth of a leukemic cell line.
LIF is manufactured using an all-human production system, with no serum.
Physical form
This product is supplied as a solution in 0.2 µm filtered phosphate buffered saline with no additives or carrier proteins. It is aseptically filled.
Preparation Note
Briefly centrifuge the vial before opening. After initial thawing it is recommended to store the protein in working aliquots at -20°C. The product can be diluted in PBS.