Background |
Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) has three isoforms (TGF-beta1, TGF-beta2, and TGF-beta3) with similar functions. The cytokine is a homodimer linked by disulfide bind. Inside cells, the cytokine forms a small latent complex with latent associated peptide (LAP). This small complex binds to latent TGF-beta binding protein (LTBP) to be secreted to extra-cellular matrix. Disassociation of the latent proteins from TGF-beta results in the release of the cytokine to its receptor. The process is called activation, which can be influenced by various factors, including proteases, metalloproteases, extreme pH, mild acidic condition, reactive oxygen species and integrins. TGF-beta is an anti-proliferation factor in normal cells. It increases the synthesis of p15 and p21, which can block the cyclin: CDK complex, and causes cells to stop at G1 phase. The cytokine can induce apoptosis through both SMAD and DAXX pathways. In cancer cells, TGF-beta signaling is altered and TGF-beta no longer stops cell proliferation. |
Application info |
Western Blot: This antibody, when used at concentration of 50-500ng/mL, will allow visualization of 100-500ng/lane of TGF-beta. Neutralizing Activity: This antibody neutralizes TGF-beta activity in vitro and in vivo. In an inhibition assay of CCL/64 cell growth and in a NRK-49F colony forming assay, the antibody neutralized TGF-beta bioactivities. The effect of micro-injection of this antibody into one blastomere of two cell stage Xenopus embryos indicated that it was also able to neutralize the bioactivity of TGF-beta in vivo. Immunohistochemistry: Can be used in immunohistochemical applications to locate TGF-beta within tissues. |