Human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) is a human, single-stranded RNA retrovirus that causes T-cell leukemia and T-cell lymphoma. The virus activates a subset of T-helper cells called Th1cells. The result is a proliferation of Th1 cells and overproduction of Th1 related cytokines (mainly IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha). Feedback mechanisms of these cytokines cause a suppression of the Th2 lymphocytes and a reduction of Th2 cytokine production (mainly IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13). The end result is a reduction in the ability of the infected host to mount an adequate immune response to invading organisms that require a predominantly Th2 dependant response (these include parasitic infections and production of mucosal and humoral antibodies.
Source:Recombinant protein corresponding to the HTLV-1 mosiac protein, contains the gp21 and gp46 immunodominant regions, aa374-400 and aa190-207, expressed in E. coli.
Specificity:Immunoreactive with all sera of HTLV-I and HTLV-II infected individuals with antibody response to HTLV envelope.
Applications:Suitable for use as an antigen in ELISA, Western Blot and is an excellent reagent for correct detection of HTLV infections with minimal specificity problems. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
