Anti-Cytokeratin 18

Encoded by the KRT18 gene, the protein recognized by this antibody is the type I intermediate filament chain keratin 18. With Cytokeratin 8, Cytokeratin 18 is expressed in single layer epithelial tissues of the body and are involved in interleukin-6 (IL-6)-mediated barrier protection. When phosphorylated, Cytokeratin 18 also plays a role in filament reorganization. Diseases related to this gene include cryptogenic cirrhosis and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. The Anti-Cytokeratin 18 Antibody does not react with stratified squamous epithelia but reacts with epithelial tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, lung, breast, pancreas, ovary, and thyroid. This antibody is also useful in studies which involve differentiating cells of epithelial origin from hematopoietic cells.