KRT20 Antibody

Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is a type of intermediate filament protein that plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of epithelial cells. It is part of the cytoskeleton, which provides mechanical support and helps maintain cell shape. CK20 is specifically expressed in certain types of epithelial cells, including those in the gastrointestinal tract, urothelium, and Merkel cells.

CK20 is a 46 kDa protein that belongs to the type I (acidic) cytokeratin subfamily. It is less acidic compared to other type I cytokeratins. The protein is encoded by the KRT20 gene and is involved in the formation of intermediate filaments, which are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of epithelial cells .

CK20 is predominantly expressed in the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and colon. It is also found in the urothelium and Merkel cells. The expression pattern of CK20 makes it a valuable marker in diagnostic pathology, particularly in the identification and classification of carcinomas originating from these tissues .

Monoclonal mouse anti-human CK20 antibodies, such as Clone Ks 20.8, are widely used in immunohistochemistry (IHC) to detect CK20 expression in tissue samples. These antibodies are useful in differentiating between various types of carcinomas. For example, CK20 labeling is observed in the majority of adenocarcinomas of the colon, mucinous ovarian tumors, transitional-cell carcinomas, and Merkel cell carcinomas .

The IHC procedure involves the use of monoclonal mouse anti-human CK20 antibodies to stain tissue sections. The staining helps pathologists visualize the presence and distribution of CK20 in the tissue, aiding in the diagnosis and classification of tumors. The antibody is provided in a liquid form, typically as purified mouse IgG from ascitic fluid, and is used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and morphological studies .