Anti-Interleukin 6 Receptor (CD126, IL-6R)

Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine that exerts its activities by binding to a high­affinity receptor complex consisting of two membrane glycoproteins: an 80kD ligand binding subunit (IL-6Ra/CD126) and a 130kD nonligand- binding signal-transducing subunit (gp130/CD130). The mouse IL-6Ra cDNA encodes a precursor type I transmembrane protein of 460 amino acids (aa) that contains a 19aa signal sequence, a 345aa extracellular ligand binding domain, a 21aa transmembrane region and a 75aa cytoplasmic segment. The extracellular segment contains an Ig-like and a fibronectin-type III domain, plus a membrane proximal WSXWS motif. In their extracellular regions, mouse IL-6Ra shares 89%, 51% and 50% aa identity with rat, human and porcine IL-6Ra, respectively. Unlike gp130 that is expressed ubiquitously, the cellular distribution of IL-6Ra is predominantly limited to hepatocytes and leukocyte subpopulations such as monocytes, neutrophils, T and B cells. Soluble IL-6Ra has been found in various body fluids. Two soluble receptor isoforms that arise either from proteolytic cleavage of the membrane-bound IL-6Ra, or by alternative mRNA splicing (reported only in human) have been described. Soluble IL-6Ra binds IL-6 with an affinity similar to that of the membrane-bound IL-6Ra. More importantly, the soluble IL-6Ra/IL-6 complex is capable of interacting with the membrane-bound gp130 to activate cells that lack an integral membrane IL-6Ra. It has been documented that elevated soluble IL-6R is associated with numerous diseases including arthritic lesions, multiple myeloma and Crohn's disease. Applications: Suitable for use in Direct ELISA, Western Blot and Immunocytochemistry. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilutions: Western Blot: 1ug/ml detects IL-6Ra in recombinant mouse IL-6Ra., Immunocytochemistry: 8-25ug/ml detects IL-6Ra in immersion fixed mouse splenocytes., Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: Lyophilized powder may be stored at -20°C. Stable for 12 months after receipt at -20°C. Reconstitute with sterile PBS. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20°C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.