Keratins are resolved with two dimensional gel electrophoresis into acidic pH, <5.7, and basic, pH >6.0 subfamilies. Members of the acidic and basic subfamilies are found together in pairs. The composition of keratin pairs varies with the epithelial cell type, stage of differentiation, cellular growth environment, and disease state. Many studies have shown the usefulness of keratins as markers in cancer research and tumor diagnosis.
Applications
Suitable for use in Immunofluorescence and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution
Immunohistochemistry (Frozen & formalin/paraffin): 1-2ug/ml. For staining of formalin-fixed tissues, digest sections with trypsin at 1mg/ml PBS, 15 min at RT, or Pronase E at 1mg/ml PBS for 5 minutes at 37°C. Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Cellular Localization
Cytoplasmic
Storage and Stability
May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months after receipt. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
Form
Supplied as a liquid in 10mM PBS, pH 7.4, 0.2% BSA, 0.09% sodium azide.
Purity
Purified by Protein A/G affinity chromatography.
Specificity
Recognizes human keratins 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18 and 19. Differentiates epithelial tumors from non-epithelial tumors.