Akt, initially identified as the cellular homolog to the retro-viral oncogene v-Akt, is part of the phosphatidyl 3'-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling pathway that is activated by diverse cellular stimuli and regulates critical cellular functions such as cell growth, proliferation, and survival. Following phosphorylation of the second messenger PIP2 by PI3K, Akt, translocates to the cell membrane where it is activated by phosphoinositide-dependent kinase (PDK) 1 and PDK2. The active Akt, is then able to phosphorylate and activate its substrates, including those that are important for cell proliferation and survival such as TOR and the Bcl-2 homolog Bad. Negative regulation of the PI3K- Akt signaling pathway is mainly accomplished by the lipid phosphatase activity of PTEN which catalyzes the conversion of PIP3 to PIP2, thereby preventing the activation of Akt. Inactivation of this gene often results in excessive Akt activity, often leading to the formation of malignant tumors. Human Akt gene is mapped to chromosome 14q32.32.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:500-1:1000
Immunohistochemistry (paraffin): 1:50-1:100
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.