Alpha Actin Antibody / ACTA2 (smooth muscle)

Actin is a major component of the cytoskeleton and is present in most cell types. This mAb is highly specific to actin from smooth muscles. Its epitope lies in the first four N-terminal amino acids. This mAb does not stain cardiac or skeletal muscle; however, it does stain myofibroblasts and myoepithelial cells. This antibody could be used together with anti-muscle specific actin and myogenin in making a diagnosis of smooth muscle and skeletal muscle tumors. In most cases of rhabdomyosarcoma, this antibody yields negative results whereas anti-muscle specific actin and myogenin are positive. Leiomyosarcomas are positive only with anti-muscle specific actin and anti-smooth muscle actin and are negative with anti-myogenin.