Caspases are a family of cysteine proteases that are key mediators of programmed cell death or apoptosis. The precursor form of all caspases is composed of a prodomain, and large and small catalytic subunits. The active forms of caspases are generated by several stimuli including ligand-receptor interactions, growth factor deprivation and inhibitors of cellular functions. All known caspases require cleavage adjacent to aspartates to liberate one large and one small subunit, which associate into tetramer to form the active enzyme. Caspase-1/ICE (IL-1b converting enzyme) is similar to the cell death gene CED-3 of Caenorhabditilis elegans and regulates multiple proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1b and interferon-gamma-inducing factor.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 0.5-2ug/ml
Immunohistochemistry: Paraffin
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Positive Control:
HeLa or NIH 3T3
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.