Actin is a major component of the cytoskeleton and is present in most cell types. It is highly specific to actin from smooth muscles. This MAb does not stain cardiac or skeletal muscle; however, it does stain myofibroblasts and myoepithelial cells. This antibody could be used together with anti-muscle specific actin and myogenin in making a diagnosis of smooth muscle and skeletal muscle tumors. In most cases of rhabdomyosarcoma, this antibody yields negative results whereas anti-muscle specific actin and myogenin are positive. Leiomyosarcomas are positive only with anti-muscle specific actin and anti-smooth muscle actin and are negative with anti-myogenin.

Optimal dilution of the Smooth Muscle Actin antibody should be determined by the researcher.

N-Terminal decapeptide of alpha smooth muscle isoform of actin was used as the immunogen for the Smooth Muscle Actin antibody.

Aliquot the Smooth Muscle Actin antibody and store frozen at -20oC or colder. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.