Bak (Bcl-2 Homologous Antagonist Killer)

Apoptosis or programmed cell death is a physiological cellular process characterized by cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, DNA fragmentation, and release of Cytochrome C from the mitochondria. It is utilized by the organism to get rid of unwanted cells, which is critical for normal development and homeostasis of an organism. Disregulation of normal apoptosis process have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, viral infections, etc. Programmed cell death occurs through complex cascades of cell signaling in which Bcl2 family members, among others, play an important role.The Bcl2 family of proteins regulate apoptosis as well as execute death signals at the mitochondrion. Bak or Bcl2 homologous antagonist is a member of the Bcl2 family of holologous proteins which function in the regulation of apoptosis. The Bcl-2 related proteins interact with one another through the formation of homo and heterodimers. The susceptibility of cells to apoptotic stimuli is thought to be controlled by the relativeratios of the different Bcl2 family proteins. Bak is a 211 aa protein (24kD) which has been demonstrated to accelerate the rate of apoptosis in growth factor deprived murine lymphoid, neuronal and fibroblastic cell lines. Bak has been localized by immunohistochemistry to the cytosol of cells and stains in a punctate pattern characteristic of other bcl2 family proteins, which have been localized to intracellular organelles. Immunohistochemical studies further show that Bak expression is widespread, and may show some correlation with the apoptopic state of cells. Applications: Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: 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 and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, aliquot 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.