This protein is a member of the keratin family. The keratins are intermediate filament proteins responsible for the structural integrity of epithelial cells and are subdivided into cytokeratins and hair keratins. The type I cytokeratins consist of acidic proteins which are arranged in pairs of heterotypic keratin chains. Unlike its related family members, this smallest known acidic cytokeratin is not paired with a basic cytokeratin in epithelial cells. It is specifically expressed in the periderm, the transiently superficial layer that envelopes the developing epidermis. Keratin 19 is not expressed in hepatocytes, therefore, antibody to keratin 19 is useful in the identification of liver metastasis. The degree of keratin 19 positivity in breast cancer distinguishes malignant from benign tumors. Keratin 19 is often co-expressed with keratin 7
Applications:
Suitable for use in Immunofluorescence and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Immunofluorescence : 1:50-1:100
Immunohistochemistry (paraffin-embedded sections): 1:500 Staining of formalin-fixed tissues requires digesting tissue sections with pepsin for 30 min at 37C. Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Recommended Positive Control:
Skin
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, add glycerol (40-50%) and aliquot. 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.