VCAM-1 (~81kD) is a member of a subclass of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF). IgSF members are ligands for integrins. Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) have important roles in the immune response, immune surveillance and cell-cell recognition, especially in leukocyte-endothelial cell adhesion. CAMs on the surface of leukocytes and endothelial cells are actively involved in the recruitment of specific leukocyte subsets into different tissues. VCAM-1 is expressed on inflamed vascular endothelium, as well as on macrophage-like and dendritic cell types in both normal and inflamed tissue. Cell adhesion molecules, like VCAM-1, are upregulated on cerebral vessels during inflammatory conditions of the central nervous system such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model system for multiple sclerosis. Administration of this monoclonal antibody has been shown to inhibit or diminish clinical or pathological signs of EAE. VCAM-1 is a receptor for encephalomyocarditis virus on murine vascular endothelial cells. Expression of VCAM-1 on vascular endothelial cells is induced by TNF-alpha, IL-1, IFN-gamma or endotoxin. VCAM-1 is a ligand for the integrins alpha4beta1 (VLA-4) and alpha4beta7 (LPAM-1). These integrins are constitutively expressed by thymocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes. VCAM-1/VLA-4 interaction may play a pathophysiological role in immune responses and as well as in leukocyte emigration to sites of inflammation.
Applications:
Suitable for use in Flow Cytometry, Immunohistochemistry, Functional Assays, Immunofluorescence and Immunoprecipitation. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Flow Cytometry: 1:50
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.