Rabbit antibody to the Tyrosine Kinase Receptor A (TrkA): whole serum

TrkA is a member of the neurotrophic tyrosine kinase receptor family. It is a membrane-bound receptor that upon neurotrophin binding, phosphorylates itself and members of the MAPK pathway. TrkA is required for high-affinity binding to nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-3 and neurotrophin-4/5 but not brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). TrkA leads to cell differentiations and may play a role in specifying sensory neuron subtypes. It has a crucial role in the development and function of the nociceptive reception system as well as establishment of thermal regulation via sweating. SUBUNIT: Exists in a dynamic equilibrium between monomeric (low affinity) and dimeric (high affinity) structures. SUBCELLULAR LOCATION: Cell membrane, single-pass type I membrane protein. Endocytosed to the endosomes upon treatment of cells with NGF. ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTS: 2 named isoforms produced by alternative splicing. Both isoforms have similar biological properties. TISSUE SPECIFICITY: Isoform TrkA-II is primarily expressed in neuronal cells. Isoform TrkA-I is found in non-neuronal tissues. Mutations in TrkA have been associated with congenital insensitivity to pain, anhidrosis, self-mutalating behaviour, mental retardation and cancer.

After reconstitution keep aliquots at -20AC for a higher stability, and at 4AC with an appropriate antibacterial agent. Glycerol (1:1) may be added for an additional stability. Avoid repetitive freeze/thaw cycles.

Lyophilised

Reacts with human, rat and mouse TrkA. Other species not yet tested.

Specificity was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. When used for immunohistochemistry in rat dorsal root ganglia, staining is restricted to the known distribution of TrkA, that is in small, nociceptive neurons.