The NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) family of proteins consists of NFAT1 (NFATc2 or NFATp), NFAT2 (NFATc1 or NFATc), NFAT3 (NFATc4) and NFAT4 (NFATc3 or NFATx). All members of this family are transcription factors with a Rel homology domain and regulate gene transcription in concert with AP-1 (Jun/Fos) to orchestrate an effective immune response (1,2). NFAT proteins are predominantly expressed in cells of the immune system, but are also expressed in skeletal muscle, keratinocytes and adipocytes, regulating cell differentiation programs in these cells (3). In resting cells, NFAT proteins are heavily phosphorylated and localized in the cytoplasm. Increased intracellular calcium concentrations activate the calcium/ calmodulin-dependent serine phosphatase calcineurin, which dephosphorylates NFAT proteins, resulting in their subsequent translocation to the nucleus (2). Termination of NFAT signaling occurs upon declining calcium concentrations and phosphorylation of NFAT by kinases such as GSK3 or CK1 (3,4). Cyclosporin A and FK506 are immunosup- pressive drugs that inhibit calcineurin and thus retain NFAT proteins in the cytoplasm (5).
Applications:
Suitable for use in Western Blot, Immunoprecipitation and Immunofluorescence (IF-IC). Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Western Blot: 1:1000. Incubate membrane with diluted antibody in 5% w/v BSA, 1X TBS, 0.1%
Tween-20 at 4 degrees C with gentle shaking, overnight.
Immunoprecipitation: 1:200.
Immunofluorescence (IF-IC) 1:50.
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage, aliquot and store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.