Caspases are a family of cysteine proteases that can be divided into the apoptotic and inflammatory caspase subfamilies. Unlike the apoptotic caspases, members of the inflammatory subfamily are generally not involved in cell death but are associated with the immune response to microbial pathogens. Members of this subfamily include caspase-1, -4, -5, and -12. Activation of these caspases results in the cleavage and activation of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1b and IL-18. Caspase-4 was initially identified as a homologous protein to Caspase-1 and the C. elegans Ced-3 which could induce apoptosis in transfected cells. More recent studies have shown that it can be activated by ER stress and has been suggested to be involved in multiple neuronal pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease. The rodent homolog is known as Caspase 4 and Caspase 11.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Immunohistochemistry (Formalin fixed paraffin embedded): 10ug/ml
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.