Anti-Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M) Monoclonal Antibody for WB, IF-P, IHC-P, ELISA - P01023

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: Alpha-2-Macroglobulin (A2M) Function and Localization

• Alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) is a large plasma glycoprotein encoded by the A2M gene (also known as CPAMD5) and belongs to the alpha-macroglobulin family, which includes C3 and PZP-like proteins.
• A2M functions as a broad-spectrum protease inhibitor, capable of inhibiting all four classes of proteinases (serine, cysteine, aspartic, and metalloproteases) through a unique “trapping” mechanism.
• The trapping mechanism involves a bait region that contains specific cleavage sites; upon proteolytic cleavage, a conformational change traps the protease, blocking access to high molecular weight substrates while leaving activity toward small substrates intact.
• Following bait region cleavage, a thioester bond within A2M is hydrolyzed, leading to covalent binding of the protein to the trapped protease, which is then cleared from circulation.
• A2M is secreted and primarily found in plasma, where it serves as a key regulator of proteolytic activity in the bloodstream and tissues.
• The protein undergoes post-translational modifications including glycosylation and the formation of disulfide bonds and the characteristic thioester bond essential for its protease-trapping function.
• A2M also features an isopeptide bond and has been identified as a serine protease inhibitor; its structure has been solved and it is a reference proteome component.
• As a secreted glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 163 kDa, A2M plays critical roles in innate immunity, inflammation, and tissue remodeling by controlling excessive proteolysis.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen spans residues 1200–1300 in the C-terminal region; consider this epitope location when designing blocking or competition assays.
• For Western blot, expect a band at ~163 kDa; optimize gel percentage and transfer conditions to ensure efficient blotting of high molecular weight proteins.
• This antibody is suitable for ELISA and IHC on paraffin-embedded sections; validate in the relevant sample system with appropriate controls.
• Cross-reactivity with mouse and rat A2M has been reported, but sequence alignment should be checked if quantitative comparisons across species are required.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio supports diagnostic manufacturers and researchers with one-stop access to IVD raw materials, from concept to clinic. For A2M and other protease inhibitor targets, we offer validated monoclonal antibodies, antibody pairs, and ancillary reagents to accelerate your assay development. Our sourcing expertise covers rare targets and bulk supply needs, bridging the gap between research and commercial production.