Anti-Oct-4 (POU5F1)

Oct-4 (POU5F1) is a transcription factor that is expressed in undifferentiated embryonic stem cells and germ cells during normal development (1). A network of key factors that includes Oct-4, Nanog and Sox2, is necessary for the maintenance of pluripotent potential. Downregulation of Oct-4 has been shown to trigger cell differentiation (2,3). Oct-4 has also been shown to be a useful marker for germ cell tumors (4). Stem cells are crucial ingredients in the progressive restriction of cellular developmental capacity during mammalian embryogenesis. Until recently, only embryonic stem cells (ESC) had been shown to exhibit the potential to differentiate into cells of the all three germ layers. However, adult stem cells (ASC) can regain pluripotency (potential to differentiate into various lineages) if transferred from one stem-cell microenvironment into another. The transcription factor OCT4, expressed in ESCs and germ cells, is strongly implicated in the process of maintaining as well as regaining stem-cell pluripotency and functions as a key regulator of mammalian germline development. Oct3/4 maintains developmental potency and governs distinct fates of embryonic stem cells. A moderate increase in expression causes differentiation into primitive endoderm and mesoderm. In contrast, repression of Oct3/4 induces loss of pluripotency and dedifferentiation to trophectoderm. Thus, a critical amount of Oct3/4 is required to sustain stem cell self-renewal, and up- or downregulation induces divergent developmental programs. Data suggest that Oct3/4 is a master regulator of pluripotency that controls lineage commitment. Applications: Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Western Blot: 1:1000, Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. For long-term storage and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, aliquot and store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months 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.