Description

The caspase family of cysteine proteases plays a key role in apoptosis and inflammation. Caspase-3 is a key protease that is activated during the early stages of apoptosis and, like other members of the caspase family, is synthesized as an inactive pro-enzyme that is processed in cells undergoing apoptosis by self-proteolysis and/or cleavage by another protease. The processed forms of caspases consist of large (17-22 kDa) and small (10-12 kDa) subunits which associate to form an active enzyme. Active caspase-3, a marker for cells undergoing apoptosis, consists of a heterodimer of 17 and 12 kDa subunits which is derived from the 32 kDa pro-enzyme. Active caspase-3 proteolytically cleaves and activates other caspases, as well as relevant targets in the cytoplasm, e.g., D4-GDI and Bcl-2, and in the nucleus (e.g. PARP).This antibody has been reported to specifically recognize the active form of caspase-3 in human and mouse cells.It has not been reported to recognize the pro-enzyme form of caspase-3.

Format

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Preparation and Storage

Store undiluted at 4°C.The monoclonal antibody was purified from tissue culture supernatant or ascites by affinity chromatography.

Product Notices

1. Since applications vary, each investigator should titrate the reagent to obtain optimal results.
2. Please refer to www.bdbiosciences.com/pharmingen/protocols for technical protocols.
3. Caution: Sodium azide yields highly toxic hydrazoic acid under acidic conditions. Dilute azide compounds in running water before discarding to avoid accumulation of potentially explosive deposits in plumbing.