Anti-CD68 Antibody

CD68, cluster of differentiation, is a 110-kD transmembrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed by human monocytes and tissue macrophages. CD68 is a member of a family of hematopoietic mucin-like molecules that includes leukosialin/CD43 and stem cell antigen CD34. The CD68 gene is mapped to 17p13.1. Immunohistochemistry can be used to identify the presence of CD68, which is found in the cytoplasmic granules of a range of different blood cells. It is particularly useful as a marker for the various cells of the macrophage lineage, including monocytes, histiocytes, giant cells, Kupffer cells, and osteoclasts. This allows it to be used to distinguish diseases of otherwise similar appearance, such as the monocyte/macrophage and lymphoid forms of leukaemia (the latter being CD68 negative) . Its presence in macrophages also makes it useful in diagnosing conditions related to proliferation or abnormality of these cells, such as malignant histiocytosis, histiocytic lymphoma, and Gaucher's disease.

ATPases, Cancer, Metabolism, Neuroscience, Neurotransmission, Plasma Membrane, Protein Trafficking, Secretory Vesicles, Signal Transduction, Vesicle Transport

Gap junction protein that acts as a regulator of bladder capacity. A gap junction consists of a cluster of closely packed pairs of transmembrane channels, the connexons, through which materials of low MW diffuse from one cell to a neighboring cell. May play a critical role in the physiology of hearing by participating in the recycling of potassium to the cochlear endolymph. Negative regulator of bladder functional capacity: acts by enhancing intercellular electrical and chemical transmission, thus sensitizing bladder muscles to cholinergic neural stimuli and causing them to contract. May play a role in cell growth inhibition through the regulation of NOV expression and localization. Plays an essential role in gap junction communication in the ventricles.

1. Holness, C. L., Simmons, D. L.Molecular cloning of CD68, a human macrophage marker related to lysosomal glycoproteins.Blood 81: 1607-1613, 1993. 2. Jones, E., Quinn, C. M., See, C. G., Montgomery, D. S., Ford, M. J., Kolble, K., Gordon, S., Greaves, D. R.The linked human elongation initiation factor 4A1 (EIF4A1) and CD68 genes map to chromosome 17p13.Genomics 53: 248-250, 1998.

At -20°C for one year from date of receipt. After reconstitution, at 4°C for one month. It can also be aliquotted and stored frozen at -20°C for six months. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing.