B2M (ß-2-microglobulin) is the invariant light chain of the HLA antigen protein. It is low molecular weight protein. It is a membrane protein found in approximately all nucleated cells. As it is shedded from the cell membranes, it is found in body fluids as well. This gene is localized to human chromosome 6, and the encoded protein has a molecular weight of 11,800Da. It has a loop in its structure, and is composed of 99 amino acids. It is a member of the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily.
Synonyms: Anti-beta-2-Microglobulin precursor antibody produced in rabbit
Storage: -20C
Application: All Prestige Antibodies Powered by Atlas Antibodies are developed and validated by the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) project (www.proteinatlas.org)and as a result, are supported by the most extensive characterization in the industry. The Human Protein Atlas project can be subdivided into three efforts: Human Tissue Atlas, Cancer Atlas, and Human Cell Atlas. The antibodies that have been generated in support of the Tissue and Cancer Atlas projects have been tested by immunohistochemistry against hundreds of normal and disease tissues and through the recent efforts of the Human Cell Atlas project, many have been characterized by immunofluorescence to map the human proteome not only at the tissue level but now at the subcellular level. These images and the collection of this vast data set can be viewed on the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) site by clicking on the Image Gallery link. To view these protocols and other useful information about Prestige Antibodies and the HPA, visit sigma.com/prestige.
Biochem Physiol Actions: B2M (ß-2-microglobulin) is filtered during glomerular filtrations, and reabsorbed and catabolized by proximal renal tubule. It is therefore, not detectable in urine in normal conditions. Thus, it is a sensitive and early biomarker of acute kidney injury. In patients subjected to long-term hemodialysis, this protein is responsible for systemic amyloidosis. The levels of this protein are altered in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with neurological diseases such as, leptomeningeal metastasis, purulent meningitis, viral meningitis or encephalitis, and neuroborreliosis. B2M levels are also linked with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), and in patients with NHL, higher levels of B2M the prognosis is poor, and they have higher mortality risk.
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