IL-12 (interleukin 12) is a proinflammatory cytokine and plays an important role in protection against pathogens. IL-12 is a potent regulator of cell mediated immune responses and it induces IFN (interferon)-? production by NK (natural killer) and T cells. Among its biological activities IL-12 promotes the growth and activity of activated NK, CD4+ and CD8+ cells and induces the development of IFN-? producing Th1 (T helper) cells. Polymorphisms in the IL-12 gene are associated with risk of rheumatoid arthritis. It also exhibits anti-tumor activities by enhancing Th1 adaptive immunity and cytotoxic T lymphocyte functions.
General description
IL-12 (interleukin 12) is produced by activated monocytes/macrophage cells, B lymphocytes and connective tissue type mast cells. Recombinant Human IL-12 is a 75kDa heterodimeric glycoprotein consisting of disulfide-linked 35kDa (p35) and 40kDa (p40) subunits (503 total amino acid residues).
Physical form
Lyophilized from 0.5x PBS, pH 7.2.
Reconstitution
Centrifuge the vial prior to opening. Reconstitute in 1x PBS, pH 7.2-7.4 to a concentration of 0.2 mg/ml. Do not vortex. This solution can be stored at 2-8°C for up to 1 week. For extended storage, it is recommended to further dilute in a buffer containing a carrier protein (example 0.1% BSA) and store in working aliquots at -20°C to -80°C.