Anti-CRF/CRH Antibody Picoband®

This gene encodes a member of the corticotropin-releasing factor family. The encoded preproprotein is proteolytically processed to generate the mature neuropeptide hormone. In response to stress, this hormone is secreted by the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, binds to corticotropin releasing hormone receptors and stimulates the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone from the pituitary gland. Marked reduction in this protein has been observed in association with Alzheimer's disease. Autosomal recessive hypothalamic corticotropin deficiency has multiple and potentially fatal metabolic consequences including hypoglycemia and hepatitis. In addition to production in the hypothalamus, this protein is also synthesized in peripheral tissues, such as T lymphocytes, and is highly expressed in the placenta. In the placenta it is a marker that determines the length of gestation and the timing of parturition and delivery. A rapid increase in circulating levels of the hormone occurs at the onset of parturition, suggesting that, in addition to its metabolic functions, this protein may act as a trigger for parturition.

1. Arbiser, J. L., Morton, C. C., Bruns, G. A. P., Majzoub, J. A. Human corticotropin releasing hormone gene is located on the long arm of chromosome 8. Cytogenet. Cell Genet. 47: 113-116, 1988. 2. Asakura, H., Zwain, I. H., Yen, S. S. C. Expression of genes encoding corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), type 1 CRF receptor, and CRF-binding protein and localization of the gene products in the human ovary. J. Clin. Endocr. Metab. 82: 2720-2725, 1997. 3. Behan, D. P., Heinrichs, S. C., Troncoso, J. C., Liu, X.-J., Kawas, C. H., Ling, N., De Souza, E. B. Displacement of corticotropin releasing factor from its binding protein as a possible treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Nature 378: 284-287, 1995.

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.