In Western blotting, it recognizes proteins in MW range of 265-400 kDa, identified as different glycoforms of MUC1/Mucin-1/Epithelial Marker Antigen/EMA. The alpha subunit has cell adhesive properties. It can act both as an adhesion and an anti-adhesion protein. EMA may provide a protective layer on epithelial cells against bacterial and enzyme attack. The beta subunit contains a C-terminal domain, which is involved in cell signaling, through phosphorylations and protein-protein interactions. In immunohistochemical assays, it superbly stains routine formalin/paraffin carcinoma tissues. Antibody to EMA is useful as a pan-epithelial marker for detecting early metastatic loci of carcinoma in bone marrow or liver.

Optimal dilution of the MUC1 antibody 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 minutes2. 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.

Human milk-fat globule membranes (HMFGM) was used as the immunogen for the MUC1 antibody.

Store the MUC1 antibody at 2-8oC (with azide) or aliquot and store at -20oC or colder (without azide).