Human purified Tau (Hoffmann et al., 1997). Species Sequence Homology: human
Tau is a heterogeneous microtubule-associated protein that promotes and stabilizes microtubule assembly, especially in axons. Six isoforms with different amino-terminal inserts and different numbers of tandem repeats near the carboxy-terminus have been identified, and tau is hyperphosphorylated at approximately 25 sites by ERK, GSK-3 and CDK5 (1-2). Phosphorylation decreases the ability of tau to bind to microtubules. Neurofibrillary tangles are a major hallmark of Alzheimers disease and these tangles are bundles of paired helical filaments composed of hyperphosphorylated tau. In particular, phosphorylation of Ser396 by GSK-3 or CDK5 destabilizes microtubules in Alzheimers disease. Furthermore, inclusions of tau are found in a number of other neurodegenerative diseases, collectively known as tauopathies (1,3). Applications: Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilutions: Western Blot: 1:1000. Incubate membrane with diluted antibody in 5% BSA, 1X TBS, 0.1% Tween-20 at 4C with gentle shaking, overnight. Optimal dilution determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
