Keratins are cytoplasmic intermediate filament proteins expressed by epithelial cells. The mitotically active basal layers of most stratified squamous epithelia express 10 to 30% of their total protein as keratin. The two keratins specifically expressed in these cells are the type II keratin CK-5 and its corresponding partner, type I keratin CK-14, both of which are essential for the formation of 8-nm filaments (1). CK-5 and calretinin have been useful in different studies as immunohistochemical markers suggestive of mesothelioma, and their expression is analyzed for the histological differential diagnosis with adenocarcinomas, especially when confronting with metastatic tumors of unknown origin (2). Loss-of-function mutations in the keratin 5 gene (KRT5) affected family members and in six unrelated patients with Dowling-Degos disease (DDD), an autosomal dominant genodermatosis. This suggests a crucial role for keratins in the organization of cell adhesion, melanosome uptake, organelle transport, and nuclear anchorage (3).
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot, Immunoprecipitation, Immunohistochemistry, Immunocytochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:10,000-20,000
Immunohistochemistry: 1:100-250
Immunocytochemistry: 1:250-500
Immunoprecipitation: 1:60
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage, 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.