AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) antibodies are utilized in research and clinical diagnostics to detect and study Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), a key regulator in reproductive and developmental biology. AMH is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the Sertoli cells in males and by the granulosa cells in females. It plays a crucial role in sexual differentiation during embryonic development and in regulating ovarian function in adults.
Structure and Function of AMH
- Structure:
- Domains: AMH is a dimeric glycoprotein composed of two identical subunits linked by disulfide bonds.
- Precursor: Synthesized as a prohormone, which is cleaved into the active form.
- Functions:
- In Males:
- Sexual Differentiation: AMH causes the regression of Müllerian ducts during fetal development, preventing the formation of female reproductive structures.
- In Females:
- Ovarian Reserve: AMH is produced by granulosa cells of preantral and small antral follicles; its levels reflect the number of remaining follicles (ovarian reserve).
- In Males:
Applications of AMH Antibodies
- Western Blotting:
- Purpose: Detect and quantify AMH protein levels in cell or tissue extracts.
- Application: Study AMH expression and analyze protein modifications.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC):
- Purpose: Localize AMH in tissue sections.
- Application: Investigate AMH expression in ovarian and testicular tissues, and analyze changes in pathological conditions.
- Immunoassay (ELISA):
- Purpose: Quantify AMH levels in serum or other biological fluids.
- Application: Measure AMH levels for assessing ovarian reserve in females and diagnosing conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and premature ovarian failure.
- Immunoprecipitation (IP):
- Purpose: Enrich AMH proteins from cell lysates.
- Application: Study protein interactions and post-translational modifications.
- Flow Cytometry:
- Purpose: Analyze AMH expression on the cell surface.
- Application: Quantify cell surface expression and monitor changes in response to treatments.
Mechanism of Detection
- Specificity: AMH antibodies bind specifically to AMH, allowing for precise detection.
- Signal Detection: Various methods such as chemiluminescence, fluorescence, or colorimetric assays are used to visualize antibody binding in different assay formats.
Advantages of Using AMH Antibodies
- High Specificity: Ensures accurate detection of AMH with minimal cross-reactivity.
- Versatility: Suitable for multiple techniques, including Western blotting, IHC, ELISA, and flow cytometry.
- Sensitivity: Allows for the detection of AMH even at low concentrations in complex samples.
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