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 ACTA2 antibody cocktail should be determined by the researcher.

1. Staining of formalin-fixed tissues requires boiling tissue sections in pH 9 10mM Tris with 1mM EDTA for 10-20 min followed by cooling at RT for 20 min.2. The prediluted format is supplied in a dropper bottle and is optimized for use in IHC. After epitope retrieval step (if required), drip mAb solution onto the tissue section and incubate at RT for 30 min.

An N-terminal decapeptide of the alpha smooth muscle isoform of Actin (1A4) and recombinant full-length human protein (ACTA2/791) were used as the immunogen for the ACTA2 antibody cocktail.

Store the ACTA2 antibody cocktail at 2-8oC (with azide) or aliquot and store at -20oC or colder (without azide).