This gene is a member of the PDGF/VEGF growth factor family and encodes a protein that is often found as a disulfide linked homodimer. This protein is a glycosylated mitogen that specifically acts on endothelial cells and has various effects, including mediating increased vascular permeability, inducing angiogenesis, vasculogenesis and endothelial cell growth, promoting cell migration, and inhibiting apoptosis. Elevated levels of this protein is linked to POEMS syndrome, also known as Crow-Fukase syndrome. Mutations in this gene have been associated with proliferative and nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. Alternatively spliced transcript variants, encoding either freely secreted or cell-associated isoforms, have been characterized. There is also evidence for the use of non-AUG (CUG) translation initiation sites upstream of, and in-frame with the first AUG, leading to additional isoforms.Sample Type:Serum, plasma, cell culture supernates, tissue homogenates, cell lysates and urineIntended Use:For the quantitative determination of human vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) concentrations in serum, plasma, cell culture supernates, tissue homogenates, cell lysates and urine. Sensitivity:25.297pg/mlRange:31.25-2000pg/mlSpecificity:This assay has high sensitivity and excellent specificity for detection of human VEGF. No significant cross-reactivity or interference between human VEGF and analogues was observed.Test Principle:This BioAssay employs the quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique. An antibody specific for VEGF has been pre-coated onto a microplate. Standards and samples are pipetted into the wells and any VEGF present is bound by the immobilized antibody. After removing any unbound substances, a biotin-conjugated antibody specific for VEGF is added to the wells. After washing, avidin conjugated Horseradish Peroxidase (HRP) is added to the wells. Following a wash to remove any unbound avidin-enzyme reagent, a substrate solution is added to the wells and color develops in proportion to the amount of VEGF bound in the initial step. The color development is stopped and the intensity of the color is measured. Kit Components:Assay plate (12x8 coated Microwells), 1x96 wellsStandard (Freeze dried), 2x vials Biotin-antibody (100X), 1x120ul HRP-avidin (100X), 1x120ul Biotin-antibody Diluent, 1x15ml HRP-avidin Diluent, 1x15ml Sample Diluent, 1x50ml Wash Buffer (25X), 1x20ml TMB Substrate, 1x10ml Stop Solution, 1x10ml Adhesive Strip (For 96 wells), 4x strips Instruction manual Storage and Stability:Store powder at 4°C liquid at -20°C. Store other components at 4°C. Stable for at least 6 months For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.