TYMS Antibody

This antiserum is directed against human Thymidylate Synthase and is useful in determining its presence in various assays. Because inhibition of Thymidylate Synthase prevents DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, the enzyme is an important target for cancer chemotherapeutic drugs, specifically the fluoropyrimidine group of antineoplastic drugs used to treat solid tumors. In general, this antibody can detect antigen in a variety of human cells and tissues, as well as bacteria, African green monkey, rat and mouse. Somewhat lower dilutions may be required in some non-human cell lines. Anti-Thymidylate Synthase can detect Thymidylate Synthase by immunochemistry in proliferating cell cultures and tissues but does not stain nonproliferating cells. Normal colon mucosa shows weak staining; however, some colorectal cancer specimens show very strong staining.

Store vial at -20° C prior to opening. Aliquot contents and freeze at -20° C or below for extended storage. Avoid cycles of freezing and thawing. Centrifuge product if not completely clear after standing at room temperature. This product is stable for several weeks at 4° C as an undiluted liquid. Dilute only prior to immediate use.

Anti-Thymidylate Synthase has been tested by western blot and is suitable for use in ELISA, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. The antibody recognizes the expected additional band corresponding to the ternary complex of hTS-dFUMP-reduced folate in HeLa cells treated with the TS inhibitor 5-FUdR. This event occurs in most human breast, colorectal, gastric, head and neck carcinomas. The antibody recognizes the 36,000 MW hTS. Reactivity in other immunoassays is unknown.