C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein found in the blood in response to inflammation (an acute-phase protein). CRP is synthesized by the liver in responce to factors released by fat cells (adipocytes). It is a member of the pentraxin family of proteins.
CRP is a member of the class of acute-phase reactants as its levels rise dramatically during inflammatory processes occurring in the body. This increment is due to a rise in the plasma concentration of IL-6, which is produced predominantly by macrophages as well as adipocytes. CRP binds to phosphocholine on microbes. It is thought to assist in complement binding to foreign and damaged cells and enhances phagocytosis by macrophages, which express a receptor for CRP. It is also believed to play another important role in innate immunity, as an early defense system against infections.
CRP rises up to 50,000-fold in acute inflammation, such as infection. It rises above normal limits within 6 hours, and peaks at 48 hours. Its half-life is constant, and therefore its level is mainly determined by the rate of production (and hence the severity of the precipitating cause). Serum amyloid A is a related acute-phase marker that responds rapidly in similar circumstances.
Applications:
Suitable for use in ELISA. 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 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.