Anti-a-Fetoprotein, NT (Alpha-1-fetoprotein, Alpha-fetoglobulin, Alpha-fetoprotein precursor, FETA,

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a major plasma protein produced by the yolk sac and the liver during fetal life. Alpha-fetoprotein expression in adults is often associated with hepatoma or teratoma. However, hereditary persistance of alpha-fetoprotein may also be found in individuals with no obvious pathology. This protein is thought to be the fetal counterpart of serum albumin, and the alpha-fetoprotein and albumin genes are present in tandem in the same transcriptional orientation on chromosome 4. Alpha-fetoprotein is found in monomeric as well as dimeric and trimeric forms, and binds copper, nickel, fatty acids and bilirubin. The level of alpha-fetoprotein in amniotic fluid is used to measure renal loss of protein to screen for spina bifida and anencephaly. Applications: Suitable for use in ELISA, Western Blot, and Immunohistochemistry. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: ELISA: 1:1,000, Western Blot: 1:50-1:100, Immunohistochemistry: 1:10-1:50, Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: Store product at 4°C if to be used immediately within two weeks. For long-term storage, aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing and store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable at -20°C for 12 months after receipt. Dilute required amount only prior to immediate use. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. , , Note: Applications are based on unconjugated antibody.