Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a serum glycoprotein protein produced in the liver or yolk sac of fetal staged mammals. AFP synthesis is minimal after birth and trace amount is expressed in the adult liver (1). AFP gene expression is regulated by the interactions between steroid hormone receptors and transcriptional factors in separate signal transduction pathways (2). AFP functions as a binding and transporting ligand and cell growth regulator. Elevated expression level of AFP has been implicated in colorectal, ovarian, pancreatic, testicular, and certain liver cancers. High levels of AFP is also seen in some diseases such as hepatitis and colitis. AFP is used as a screening marker for fetal abnormalities in pregnant women such as Down syndrome. Recently, AFP has been introduced as an anti-cancer drugs-ligand carrier, transporting drugs to target tumor cells, increasing anti-tumor efficiency (3).
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot, Immunoprecipitation, Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:50,000
Immunohistochemistry: 1:250-500
Immunoprecipitation: 1:50
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.
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