IL-6 is produced by many different cell types. The main sources in vivo are stimulated monocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. Macrophages, T cells and B lymphocytes, granulocytes, smooth muscle cells, eosinophils, chondrocytes, osteoblasts, mast cells, glial cells, and keratinocytes also produce IL-6 after stimulation. IL-6 is a member of a family of cytokines, which also includes LIF, CNTF, Oncostatin M, IL-11, and CT-1. All known members of the IL-6 cytokine family induce hepatic expression of acute phase proteins. The IL-6 receptor is expressed on T cells, mitogen-activated B cells, peripheral monocytes and some macrophage and B cell derived tumor cell types. It is not expressed in resting B cells but in resting T cells. The IL-6 receptor is a strongly glycosylated protein of 80 kDa and a length of 449 amino acids. It has been designated CD126.
Aliases- IL-6, IL6
- Recombinant Rat Interleukin-6 (IL6)
Formulation- Recombinant rat Interleukin-6 was lyophilized from a 0.2 µm filtered PBS solution.
Endotoxin Level- <1.0 EU/µg of recombinant protein as determined by the LAL method.
Storage Condition- The lyophilized protein is stable for at least one year from date of receipt at -70°C. Upon reconstitution, this cytokine can be stored in working aliquots at +2° to +8°C for one month, or at -20°C for six months, with a carrier protein without detectable loss of activity. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles.