IFN alpha Monoclonal Antibody (MMHA-2), Invitrogen™

Description

Specificity: Neutralizes human interferon alpha; binds to human IFN alpha with high affinity (Ka=10^9 M^-1). Activity: Interferon was titrated with the use of the cytopathic effect inhibition assay, where 1 unit/mL of interferon was necessary to produce an endpoint of 50%. One neutralization unit is defined as the amount of serum required to neutralize one unit of human IFN alpha to an endpoint of 50%. Purity is >95%. Endotoxin level <1 EU/ug. Store at -20°C for short-term use (less than 6 months). For long-term storage, aliquot and store at -70°C or below for retention of full activity. Refreezing should be done on dry ice or in a dry ice/alcohol bath. Further dilution of the product should be in buffers containing protein such as 0.1% BSA. Packaged by and distributed for PBL Assay Science.

IFN alpha (Interferon alpha) is a Type I interferon belonging to a family of structurally related, species-specific proteins exclusive to vertebrates. The interaction of IFN-alpha with its receptor component result in the activation of a number of signaling pathways which are mainly involved in innate immune response against viral infection. In humans, the gene for IFN alpha is located on on chromosome 9. The type I interferons consist of 14 different alpha isoforms (subtypes with slightly different specificities), and single beta, omega, epsilon and kappa isoforms. Homologous molecules are found in many species, including rats and mice (and most mammals), and have been identified in birds, reptiles and fish species. IFN alpha is produced primarily by plasmacytoid dendritic cells, is a potent component of the anti-viral innate immune response and modulates adaptive immunity. Diseases associated with the dysfunction of IFN alpha include Hepatitis C and Hepatitis.