Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Mouse Monoclonal Antibody for WB, IF/ICC, ELISA - P02771

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: Alpha-fetoprotein Function and Localization

• Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), also known as alpha-1-fetoprotein and alpha-fetoglobulin, is a secreted glycoprotein belonging to the albumin family.
• AFP binds copper, nickel, and fatty acids, and also exhibits moderate bilirubin-binding ability, though less efficiently than serum albumin.
• Only a minor fraction (less than 2%) of human AFP demonstrates estrogen-binding properties, indicating limited hormonal ligand interaction.
• It is predominantly synthesized by the fetal liver and yolk sac, and is most abundant in fetal plasma; levels decline sharply after birth and are low in healthy adults.
• The protein is rich in post-translational modifications, including glycosylation, phosphorylation, and sulfation, and contains multiple disulfide bonds.
• Structurally, it features repetitive domains and is classified as a secreted, metal-binding phosphoprotein.
• As a well-established clinical biomarker, elevated serum AFP levels are associated with hepatocellular carcinoma, germ cell tumors, and fetal developmental disorders, making it a critical target for diagnostic antibody development.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen covers nearly the full-length mature protein (amino acids 19–609), which may provide epitopes across multiple domains; consider epitope mapping if domain-specific detection is required.
• For Western blot, the reported protein weight is 69 kDa; however, due to glycosylation, the observed band may shift, and reducing/non-reducing conditions can be tested for optimal resolution.
• In immunofluorescence/ICC, AFP is secreted and may exhibit a vesicular or extracellular staining pattern; proper fixation and permeabilization (if required) should be validated for the target cell type.
• For ELISA applications, pair testing with detection antibodies recognizing non-overlapping epitopes is recommended to avoid competition; the recombinant immunogen can serve as a positive control.
• Cross-reactivity with mouse AFP is reported; when using mouse models, endogenous AFP may be detected; include appropriate controls to distinguish exogenous from endogenous signals.
• Serum/plasma samples are typical for AFP detection; consider sample dilution optimization due to high AFP concentration in certain conditions.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio provides diagnostic manufacturers, laboratories, and research institutes with one-stop access to IVD raw materials, technical services, and consulting—covering every stage from concept to clinic. Our portfolio includes validated antibody pairs, optimized monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, bulk ancillary reagents, and rare target raw-material sourcing, all tailored to streamline your AFP-focused diagnostic assay development. As your dedicated sourcing partner, we ensure a reliable supply chain for critical biomarkers like alpha-fetoprotein, supporting prenatal screening, oncology, and liver disease applications.