Anti-CD257 (B Lymphocyte Stimulator, BLyS, B-cell-activating Factor, BAFF, Dendritic Cell-derived TN

Human CD257 (B cell activating factor, BAFF,TALL-1, Blys, THANK) and CD256 (APRIL, a proliferation inducing ligand) are both type II molecules belonging to the TNF superfamily (TNFSFL #13b and 13 respectively). They are expressed by non-B cells, and are down regulated by mitogenic stimulation (2). BAFF and APRIL bind to at least two receptors: CD267 (TACI, transmembrane activator and CAML-interactor) and CD269 (BCMA, B cell maturation antigen), both of which are restricted to B cells (3,4). Ligation of these receptors with recombinant BAFF dramatically increases IgM production by peripheral blood B cells (1). A third receptor CD268 (BAFFR) is specific for BAFF has also been described (5). BAFF and BAFFR knockout mice have a reduced numbers of mature B cells in the periphery, however TACI and BCMA knockouts do not share this phenotype, suggesting that BAFF-R may the primary receptor for BAFF in mice (8,9,10). Cell surface BAFF can be proteolytically cleaved to form a soluble trimeric molecule (2). Levels of soluble BAFF correspond with levels of autoantibodies in Sjogren's Syndrome (11). Applications: Suitable for use in ELISA and Flow Cytometry. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. 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. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.