APO-1 (Fas, CD95) ELISA

Programmed Cell Death and APO-1/Fas (CD95): An Overview

Introduction to Apoptosis: Programmed cell death, commonly known as apoptosis, is a fundamental mechanism in eukaryotic cells that orchestrates cell death with precision. This process is essential for various physiological functions including:

• Tumor Regression: Apoptosis eliminates cancerous cells, aiding in the regression of tumors.
• Embryonic Development: Regulates cell death during development to shape tissues and organs.
• Immune System Homeostasis: Ensures the removal of autoreactive B and T cells, maintaining immune system balance.

Morphological and Biochemical Characteristics of Apoptosis:

• Morphological Changes: Includes nuclear condensation, membrane blebbing, and cell shrinkage.
• Biochemical Features: Characterized by rapid DNA fragmentation, which can be detected using specific assays.

APO-1/Fas (CD95):

• Overview: APO-1, also known as Fas or CD95, is a member of the TNF/NGF receptor superfamily. It is a glycosylated surface protein with a molecular weight of approximately 48 kDa and a single transmembrane domain.
• Expression: APO-1 is expressed across various human B and T cell lines, several tumor cells, and numerous normal human tissues. Its widespread distribution underscores its importance in mammalian development and immune regulation.
• Function: Activation of APO-1 by its ligand or anti-APO-1 monoclonal antibodies triggers apoptosis in target cells. This signaling pathway plays a critical role in:
• Immune Regulation: Induces the death of cells that are potentially autoreactive or otherwise detrimental.
• Tumor Surveillance: Helps the immune system eliminate cancerous cells.
• Soluble APO-1 (sAPO-1):
• Levels in Disease: Elevated levels of sAPO-1 have been observed in the serum of patients with malignant B- and T-cell leukemias and systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Hypothesis: sAPO-1 might inhibit the apoptosis-inducing effects of the APO-1 ligand, allowing tumor cells to evade immune surveillance and potentially contributing to leukemogenesis.

Implications for Research and Therapy:

• Diagnostic Marker: Elevated sAPO-1 levels could serve as a biomarker for certain cancers and autoimmune diseases.
• Therapeutic Target: Understanding the role of sAPO-1 in immune evasion and cancer progression could lead to novel therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating APO-1 signaling.

Conclusion: APO-1/Fas (CD95) plays a critical role in the regulation of apoptosis, impacting immune system function and cancer progression. The study of sAPO-1 levels in various diseases offers valuable insights into its potential role as a therapeutic target and diagnostic marker.

This ELISA Kit from Tecan IBL International is for research use only.

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