Anti-SCF KITLG Antibody

Stem cell factor (SCF) is the ligand of the c-Kit oncogene and is expressed by various structural and inflammatory cells in the airways. Binding of SCF by the c-Kit receptor leads to homodimerization of the receptor and the activation of signalling pathways such as PI-3, PLC-gamma, Jak/STAT, and MAP kinase pathways. SCF expression leads to the induction of mast cell survival and the expression and release of histamine, pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The inhibition of the SCF/c-Kit pathway leads to a decrease in histamine levels, mast cell and eosinophil infiltration, IL-4 production and airway hyperresponsiveness, suggesting this pathway may be a useful therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases such as asthma. At least two isoforms of SCF are known to exist.

Anti-SCF antibody was raised against a peptide corresponding to 18 amino acids near the center of human SCF. The immunogen is located within amino acids 100-150 of SCF.

Ligand for the receptor-type protein-tyrosine kinase KIT. Plays an essential role in the regulation of cell survival and proliferation, hematopoiesis, stem cell maintenance, gametogenesis, mast cell development, migration and function, and in melanogenesis. KITLG/SCF binding can activate several signaling pathways. Promotes phosphorylation of PIK3R1, the regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and subsequent activation of the kinase AKT1. KITLG/SCF and KIT also transmit signals via GRB2 and activation of RAS, RAF1 and the MAP kinases MAPK1/ERK2 and/or MAPK3/ERK1. KITLG/SCF and KIT promote activation of STAT family members STAT1, STAT3 and STAT5. KITLG/SCF and KIT promote activation of PLCG1, leading to the production of the cellular signaling molecules diacylglycerol and inositol 1,4,5- trisphosphate. KITLG/SCF acts synergistically with other cytokines, probably interleukins.