Thermo Fisher Scientific IkB alpha Polyclonal Antibody

Applications

Western Blot (WB)

• Tested Dilution: 0.5–2 µg/mL

Product Specifications

Product Specific Information

• Suggested positive control: Daudi cells

Target Information

IkB-alpha is a 40 kDa protein that functions to inhibit NF-kappaB activity. This inhibition occurs via protein-protein interaction between I kappaB proteins and NF-kappaB dimers in the cytosol. The interaction of IkB-alpha with NF-kappaB masks the nuclear localization sequence of NF-kappaB, preventing its translocation to the nucleus.

A variety of stimuli can activate gene expression by liberating NF-kappaB through the degradation of IkB-alpha. These stimuli include:

• Proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta)
• Chemokines, PMA, growth factors
• LPS, UV irradiation, viral infection
• Various chemical and physical stresses

In humans, the gene is located on the q arm of chromosome 14. Activation of NF-kappaB requires phosphorylation of IkB on specific serine residues (Ser32 and Ser36), leading to its targeted degradation. IkB kinase alpha (IKK alpha), previously designated CHUK, interacts with IkB-alpha and phosphorylates it at these sites, which trigger degradation.

IKK alpha is critical for NF-kappaB activation in response to proinflammatory cytokines. Phosphorylation of IkB by IKK alpha is stimulated by NFkB-inducing kinase (NIK), a central regulator for NFkB activation in response to TNF and IL-1. The functional IKK complex contains three subunits—IKK alpha, IKK beta, and IKK gamma—each contributing to IkB phosphorylation.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. Not for resale without express authorization.