Hemopexin, a globulin (beta-glycoprotein) synthesized by liver, accounts for about 1.4% of total serum protein. Like albumin, it binds heme with high affinity and transports it to liver for salvage of the iron. Human hemopexin consists of a single polypeptide chain of 439 amino acids (~50-57kD, carbohydrate ~23%; plasma concn in human 0.8-1 mg/ml). Structurally hemopexin consists of two similar halves of ~two hundred amino acid residues connected by a histidine rich hinge region. Each half is itself formed by the repetition of a basic unit of some 35 to 45 residues. Hemopexin has been found in the serum of all mammals studied and it is polymorphic in rabbits and swine. Hemopexin is an acute phase protein that is elevated 2-3 fold in rat serum and plasma as a result of inflammation and arthritis. Hemopexin provides a convenient marker of inflammation and tissue injury in the rat.Recent studies have demonstrated that hemopexin acts as an extracellular antioxidant against hemoglobin- mediated damage in inflammation. Hemopexin protects against heme toxicity and conserves and recycles iron. Abnormal levels of hemopexin are associated with hemolytic anemia, chronic neuromuscular disease, and acute intermittent porphyria.Source:Hemopexin, from a pool of rat serumApplications: Suitable for use in ELISA and Western Blot. Other applications not tested.Recommended Dilution:ELISA: 0.1-1ug/mlWestern Blot: load 100-500ng/lane and probe with antibodiesOptimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.Storage and Stability:May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.