The protein encoded by this gene is a gastric aspartyl protease that functions as a disulfide-linked homodimer. This protease, which is a member of the peptidase C1 family, has a specificity similar to that of pepsin A and cathepsin D. It is an intracellular proteinase that does not appear to be involved in the digestion of dietary protein and is found in highest concentration in the surface of epithelial mucus-producing cells of the stomach. It is the first aspartic proteinase expressed in the fetal stomach and is found in more than half of gastric cancers. It appears, therefore, to be an oncofetal antigen. Transcript variants utilizing alternative polyadenylation signals and two transcript variants encoding different isoforms exist for this gene. Applications: Suitable for use in Western Blot. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months after receipt. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
