Lambda Chain (B cells)

An antibody is a Y-shaped glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily. Antibodies are produced by B lymphocytes, and utilized by the immune system to identify and neutralize bacteria, viruses and other foreign targets. Two large heavy and two small light chains connected by disulfide bonds comprise the basic structural antibody unit, and form the antibody Y shape.\nThere are two types of immunoglobulin light chains in mammals, lambda and kappa. Each B lymphocyte expresses only one class, either lambda or kappa. Once determined, the class remains fixed for the life of the B lymphocyte. The total kappa to lambda ratio is approximately 2:1 in serum from a healthy individual, measuring intact whole antibodies and 1:1.5 if measuring free light chains. A highly divergent kappa to lambda ratio can be indicative of a malignancy or inflammatory condition. Antibody reacts with free lambda chains as well as lambda chains in intact immunolobulins. The antibody detects lambda on B lymphocytes or plasma cells, but does not react with T cells, monocytes, granulocytes because these cell types do not express lambda. The lambda antibody is also useful in immunophenotyping or identifying leukemias, plasmacytomas, and some non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. The restricted expression of a single light chain class, either kappa or lambda, is common feature among them. Demonstration of antibody clonality in an infiltrate, such as the expression of only lambda to the exclusion of kappa, indicates that the infiltrate is likely clonal and potentially malignant.\n\nApplications: \nSuitable for use in Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.\n\nRecommended Dilution:\nImmunohistochemistry(Paraffin): 1:100-1:200\nOptimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.\n\nStorage and Stability:\nMay be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.

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