Cytochrome C

Cytochrome c is located in the mitochondria of all aerobic cells and is involved in the electron transport system that functions in oxidative phosphorylation. It accepts electrons from cytochrome b and transfers them to cytochrome oxidase. In the process, the iron of the heme group, which is identical to that of hemoglobin and myoglobin, shifts from the ferrous to the ferric state (1). Recent progress in studies on apoptosis has revealed that cytochrome c is a pro-apoptotic factor. It is released from its places on the outer surface of the inner mitochondrial membrane at early steps of apoptosis and, combining with some cytosolic proteins, activates conversion of the latent apoptosis-promoting protease pro-caspase-9 to its active form. Cytochrome c release can be initiated by the pro-apoptotic protein Bax. This process is blocked by the anti-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL (2). Also, differences in amino acid composition of cytochrome c have also been used as markers of biochemical evolution. Applications: Suitable for use in ELISA, Western Blot, Immunoprecipitation, Immunohistochemistry, and Immunocytochemistry. Other applications have not been tested. Recommended Dilution: Western Blot: 1:250-500 Immunohistochemistry: 1:100-250 Immunocytochemistry: 1:50-100 Immunoprecipitation: 1:50 Optimal dilutions to be determined by researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage, aliquot and store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer. Manufactured incorporating RabMAb(R) technology under Epitomics US patents, No 5,675,063 and 7,429,487, owned by Abcam.