Catenins are proteins found in complexes with cadherin cell adhesion molecules of animal cells. The first two catenins that were identified became known as alpha-catenin and beta-catenin. Alpha-catenin can bind to b-catenin and can also bind actin. Beta-catenin binds the cytoplasmic domain of some cadherins. When B-catenin was sequenced it was found to be a member of the armadillo family of proteins. These proteins have multiple copies of the so-called armadillo repeat domain which is specialized for protein-protein binding. An increase in B-catenin production has been noted in those people who have Basal Cell Carcinoma and leads to the increase in proliferation of related tumors. When B-catenin is not associated with cadherins and a-catenin, it can interact with other proteins such as Catenin Beta Interacting Protein 1 (ICAT) and adenomatosis polyposis coli (APC). Recent evidence suggests that B-catenin plays an important role in various aspects of liver biology including liver development (both embryonic and postnatal), liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy, HGF-induced hepatpomegaly, liver zonation, and pathogenesis of liver cancer. After phosphorylation, beta catenin is rapidly degraded into various fragments over time (1).
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:500-1:1000 detects phosph-beta catenin in Calyculin/Okadoic acid treated and untreated HEK293 cell 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.