Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the immune system. It is primarily produced by activated T cells, mast cells, and basophils. IL-4 is involved in the differentiation of naive helper T cells (Th0 cells) into Th2 cells. Once differentiated, Th2 cells produce additional IL-4, which further promotes the differentiation process. This cytokine is also essential for the class switching of B cells to produce IgE and IgG1 antibodies in mice .
IL-4 exerts its effects by binding to the IL-4 receptor (IL-4R), which is composed of the IL-4R alpha chain (CD124) and the common gamma chain (γc). The binding of IL-4 to its receptor activates the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, leading to the transcription of various genes involved in immune responses .
Mouse anti-human IL-4 antibodies are monoclonal antibodies developed in mice that specifically target human IL-4. These antibodies are used in various research applications, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and neutralization assays .
One commonly used mouse anti-human IL-4 antibody is clone 25463 (49/20), which recognizes the human IL-4 receptor subunit alpha (CD124). This antibody can block IL-4 receptor-mediated bioactivities induced by IL-4 or IL-13 . The antibody is purified and prepared by affinity chromatography on Protein A from ascites, and it is typically stored in phosphate-buffered saline with 0.5% trehalose as a stabilizer .
Mouse anti-human IL-4 antibodies are valuable tools in immunological research. They are used to study the role of IL-4 in various immune responses and to investigate the mechanisms underlying allergic reactions, asthma, and other Th2-mediated diseases. By blocking IL-4 signaling, these antibodies can help researchers understand the pathways involved in immune regulation and identify potential therapeutic targets for treating immune-related disorders .