Caveolins are a family of integral membrane proteins which are the principal components of caveolae membranes. Cavoleae are flask-shaped plasma membrane invaginations whose exact cellular function is not yet clear. Caveolins may act as scaffolding proteins within caveolar membranes by compartmentalizing and concentrating signaling molecules. Various classes of signaling molecules, including G-protein subunits, receptor and non-receptor tyrosine kinases, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and small GTPases, bind caveolin-1 through its 'caveolin-scaffolding domain'. Currently, three different forms of caveolins are known: caveolin-1 (or VIP21), caveolin-2 and caveolin-3 (or M-caveolin). Structurally they seem to have N-terminal and C-terminal hydrophilic segments and a long central transmembrane domain that probably forms a hairpin in the membrane. Both extremities are known to face the cytoplasm. Caveolae are enriched with cholesterol and caveolin-1 is one of the few proteins that binds cholesterol tightly and specifically.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:500-1:1000
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Positive Control:
NIH/3T3 cells
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.