Overview
HTERT is the reverse transcriptase component of human telomerase, an enzyme that adds repetitive DNA sequences to chromosome ends (telomeres). It plays a pivotal role in cellular immortality by counteracting telomere shortening during cell division. While most somatic cells silence HTERT expression, it is reactivated in ~90% of human cancers, making it a key biomarker and therapeutic target. First cloned in 1997, HTERT's gene is located on chromosome 5p15.33. The protein contains conserved reverse transcriptase motifs and a telomerase-specific T-motif. Unlike viral reverse transcriptases, HTERT specifically recognizes telomeric RNA (hTR) as its template for telomere elongation.
Physical and Chemical Properties
As a 1132-amino acid protein, HTERT has a molecular weight of ~127 kDa and an isoelectric point around pH 6.5. It requires magnesium ions for catalytic activity and shows optimal function at physiological temperature (37°C) and pH (7.0-7.5). The protein forms a ribonucleoprotein complex with hTR and dyskerin. HTERT exhibits poor solubility in non-aqueous solutions. In research settings, it's commonly supplied in lyophilized form with stabilizing buffers (e.g., Tris-HCl, glycerol) or as pre-diluted solutions. Activity is highly sensitive to freeze-thaw cycles, requiring aliquoting for storage at -80°C with carrier proteins like BSA.
Main Applications
In oncology, HTERT serves as both a diagnostic marker (via RT-PCR detection in liquid biopsies) and a therapeutic target (through small-molecule inhibitors or immunotherapy). Its overexpression immortalizes primary cells for bioproduction, enabling consistent cell line development. Regenerative medicine utilizes HTERT to extend the replicative lifespan of therapeutic cells like mesenchymal stem cells. However, strict controls are necessary to avoid malignant transformation. Research-grade HTERT is also essential for telomerase activity assays (TRAP assays) and mechanistic studies of aging pathways.
Safety and Storage
As a human-derived protein, HTERT requires Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) handling precautions. Use gloves, lab coats, and eye protection when handling. Avoid inhalation or skin contact with lyophilized powder, which may cause irritation. For storage, maintain lyophilized HTERT at -20°C in a desiccator. Reconstituted solutions should be aliquoted and stored at -80°C with cryoprotectants. Activity typically remains stable for 6-12 months under these conditions. Always centrifuge lyophilized vials before opening to prevent protein loss.
B2B Procurement Guide
When sourcing HTERT for research, prioritize suppliers providing: 1) Certificate of Analysis with purity data (SDS-PAGE/Coomassie), 2) Specific activity units (e.g., TRAP assay results), 3) Endotoxin levels (<1 EU/µg), and 4) Batch-to-batch consistency documentation. For clinical-grade applications (e.g., cell therapy), ensure compliance with cGMP standards and request full traceability documentation. Large-scale buyers (10+ mg) should negotiate bulk pricing and confirm stability data for long-term storage. Consider vendors offering custom formulations (e.g., carrier-free options) for specific experimental needs.
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