Description

The primary mechanism by which cytotoxic T cells eliminate virally infected cells is by granule exocytosis. The release of cytotoxic granule contents by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) triggers apoptotic target cell death. CTL granules contain a poreforming protein, perforin, and a group of serine proteases called granzymes. In the classic model, perforins create holes in the target cell membrane, allowing entrance of the granzymes. Granzyme A and B are the predominant granzymes activated after CTL activation, but each act via an independent apoptotic pathway; granzyme B is activated immediately, while granzyme A acts hours later. The physiological substrates for granzyme A in the apoptotic pathwayhave not been identified. Studies involving mice which are deficient in both granzyme A and B suggest a model whereby the granzyme B pathway may have evolved as the major apoptotic pathway with the granzyme A pathway acting as a backup. Granzyme B has been shown to induce apoptosis and to cleave a number of substrates which are similar in specificity to those of the caspase family of proteinases. Granzyme B can cleave substrates, such as DNA-PKcs, and nuclear mitotic apparatus protein (NuMA). Furthermore, Granzyme B can also cleave substrates such as Bid and DFF45 in a caspase-independent fashion. However, further research is needed to delineate the exact role of caspases in cytotoxic T lymphocyte-induced apoptosis involving Granzyme B. Granzyme B migrates at approximately 32 kDa in SDS/PAGE. Clone 2C5/F5 recognizes human and rat granzyme B.

Format

Suggested Companion Products

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. 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.
3. Please refer to www.bdbiosciences.com/pharmingen/protocols for technical protocols.