Invitrogen™ Laminin Polyclonal Antibody

Description

This antibody is pan-specific and reacts well with all Laminin isoforms tested: Laminin-1 (alpha-1, beta-1, and gamma-1) and Laminin-2 (alpha-2, beta-1, and gamma-1). The antibody functionally inhibits Laminin in mouse and rat. It binds to Laminin and inhibits most, if not all, of its cell adhesion and growth promotive properties. Immunostaining is enhanced by antigen retrieval with pepsin, especially paraffin tissue. Suggested positive control: basement membranes (blood vessels of any tissue, tumors, nerve).

Laminin is a crucial glycoprotein that plays a significant role in the extracellular matrix, particularly within the basement membrane. It is composed of three subunits: alpha, beta, and gamma chains. These chains are disulfide-linked polypeptides that together form a heterotrimer, resembling the shape of a cross. The human genome encodes 11 genetically distinct laminin chains, which combine to form over 14 different laminin isoforms, each with specific tissue distributions and functions. Laminins can bind to other laminin molecules, as well as integrins and other matrix proteins, providing structural support and influencing cell differentiation, migration, and adhesion. These glycoproteins are vital during early embryonic development, where they contribute to the formation of basement membrane-like structures, even in the absence of type IV collagen. The evolutionary origin of laminin gene families can be traced back to early branching animals, providing insights into metazoan gene family development.