Anti-C8 alpha

C8 is a component of the complement system and contains three polypeptides, alpha, beta and gamma. This gene encodes the alpha subunit of C8. C8 participates in the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC). The MAC assembles on bacterial membranes to form a pore, permitting disruption of bacterial membrane organization. Mutations in this gene cause complement C8 alpha-gamma deficiency. [provided by RefSeq, Nov 2008], Protein function: Constituent of the membrane attack complex (MAC) that plays a key role in the innate and adaptive immune response by forming pores in the plasma membrane of target cells. C8A inserts into the target membrane, but does not form pores by itself. [The UniProt Consortium] Recommended dilutions: WB 1:500-2000, ELISA 1:10000-20000. Cellular localization: Secreted. Cell membrane, Multi-pass membrane protein. Secreted as soluble protein. Inserts into the cell membrane of target cells.