Protein A, Fc Binding Grade

Biochemical Physiological Actions : Protein A is a highly stable cell surface receptor produced by several strains of Staphylococcus aureus. It consists of a single polypeptide chain of molecular weight 42 kDa, containing four repetitive domains rich in aspartic and glutamic acids but devoid of cysteine. It contains little or no carbohydrate and only 4 tyrosine residues and no tryptophans. Protein A is capable of binding to the Fc portion of immunoglobulins, especially IgGs, from a large number of species. One protein A molecule has been shown to bind at least 2 molecules of IgG simultaneously. The IgG binding domain of Protein A consists of three anti-parallel a-helicies, the third of which is disrupted when the protein is complexed with the Fc region of the immunoglobulins. Protein A will bind the Fc portion of human IgG subclasses, IgM, IgA and IgE; and mouse IgG1 (weakly), IgG2a, and IgG2b. Protein A also binds IgGs from other species, including monkey, rabbit, pig, guinea pig, dog, and cat. Protein A also participates in a number of different protective biological functions including anti-tumor, toxic, and carcinogenic activities. In addition to acting as an immunomodulator, it also has antifungal and antiparasitic properties.