Both p44 and p42 MAP kinases (Erk1 and Erk2) function in a protein kinase cascade that plays a critical role in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation. MAP kinases are activated by a wide variety of extracellular signals including growth and neurotrophic factors, cytokines, hormones and neuro-transmitters. Activation of MAP kinases occurs through phosphorylation of threonine and tyrosine 202 and 204 of Erk1 or 185 and 187 of rat Erk2 at the sequence T*EY* by a single upstream MAP kinase kinase (MEK). Both kinases are known to weakly autophosphorylate on tyrosine. Upon activeation, the Erks either phosphorylate a number of cytoplasmic targets or migrate to the nucleus, where they phosphorylate and activeate a number of transcription factors such as c-Fos and Elk-1.

Specificity/Sensitivity:

Phospho-Erk1/2 antibody recognizes Erk1 and Erk2 dually phosphorylated at T202/Y204 of Erk1 and T185/Y187 of Erk2, respectively. The antibody does not cross-react with the corresponding phosphor- rylated residues of either SAPK/JNK or p28 MAP kinase.

Source/Purification:

Polyclonal antibodies are produced by immunizing mice with a synthetic phosphopeptide including residue T202/Y204 of extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1 (Erk1; p44 MAPK) and residues T185/Y187 of Erk2 (p42 MAPK). Antibodies are purifyied by protein A and peptide offinity chromatogramphy.

Storage and Stability:

Each vial contains 100ul affinity purified Mouse anti-phospho-Erk1/2 antibody in a special stabilizer. Real time studies that this special stabilizer helped retain most of antibody activity for 24 months while store at 4℃.

Recommended Antibody Dilutions: