Achaete Scute homolog 2 (also known as mammalian aschaete-scute homolog 2 or Mash2) is a nuclear protein expressed specifically in the extravillous trophoblasts of developing placenta. Placental development involves control by the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Achaete Scute homolog 2, which may regulate HIF (hypoxia) in the formation of spongiotrophoblasts. Targeted mutagenesis of Achaete Scute homolog 2 yielded loss of function results in embryonic lethality at midgestation due to placental failure associated with a lack of spongiotrophoblasts and reduced labyrinthine trophoblast layers. In addition to healthy placental development, Achaete Scute proteins may also be involved in the determination of neuronal precursors in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Achaete Scute homolog 2 has also been implicated as a controller of intestinal stem cell fate and is essential for the maintenance of adult intestinal stem cells.
This gene is a member of the basic helix-loop-helix (BHLH) family of transcription factors. It activates transcription by binding to the E box (5'-CANNTG-3'). Dimerization with other BHLH proteins is required for efficient DNA binding. Involved in the determination of the neuronal precursors in the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot and Immunocytochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1ug/ml on 10ug of human placenta tissue lysate.
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.