Actin, pan

Actin, an ubiquitous protein in eukaryotes, is the major component of the cytoskeleton. At least six isoforms are known in mammals. Nonmuscle beta- and gamma-actin, also known as cytoplasmic actin, are predominantly expressed in nonmuscle cells, controlling cell structure and motility (1). alpha-cardiac and alpha-skeletal actin are expressed in striated cardiac and skeletal muscles, respectively; two smooth muscle actins, alpha- and gamma-actin, are found primarily in vascular smooth muscle and enteric smooth muscle, respectively. These actin isoforms regulate contractile potentials for muscle cells (1). Actin exists mainly as a fibrous polymer, F-actin. In response to cytoskeletal reorganizing signals during processes such as cytokinesis, endocytosis, or stress, cofilin promotes fragmentation and depolymerization of F-actin, resulting in an increase in the monomeric globular form, G-actin (2). The Arp2/3 complex stabilizes F-actin fragments and promotes formation of new actin filaments (2). It has been reported that actin is hyperphosphorylated in primary breast tumors (3). Cleavage of actin under apoptotic conditions has been observed in vitro and in cardiac and skeletal muscle (4-6). Actin cleavage by caspase-3 may accelerate ubiquitin/proteosome dependent muscle proteolysis (6). Applications: Suitable for use in Western Blot and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications have not been tested. Recommended Dilutions: Western Blot: 1:1000 Immunohistochemistry:1:25 Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage, aliquot and store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.