Follistatin (FST) is a single-chain glycosylated protein of gonadal origin, originally identified as an antagonist of activin and suppressor of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis/secretion. Alternative splicing of FST mRNA generates the two isoforms FS315 and FS288, the latter of which is the main cell-surface form and binds with high affinity to surface heparan sulphate proteoglycans, whilst FS315 binds with only low-affinity, and is considered to be the main circulating form of follistatin. As well as activin, FST interacts with other growth factors such as bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) -2, -4 and -7, myostatin, and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9), playing a key role in cellular differentiation/proliferation, embryonic development and tissue repair.
Applications:
Suitable for use in ELISA, Western Blot, and Immunohistochemistry (paraffin). Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Positive Control:
Testis
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, 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.