Beta-2-Microglobulin PET Kit

Beta-2-Microglobulin PET Kit is for the quantitative determination of beta-2-microglobulin (B2M) in human plasma or serum. B2M is a low molecular mass protein of Mr 11 815. B2M is synthesized in all nucleated cells, and is associated with the heavy chain of the class I major histocompatibility complex. B2M is mainly catabolized by renal glomerular filtration followed by reabsorption in the proximal tubules and subsequent degradation. Upon activation of the immune system both B and T lymphocytes actively release B2M into circulation. In several disorders the B2M level has been found to be higher than expected when considering the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). These disorders are AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, many lymphoproliferative and myeloproliferative diseases as well as several non-hematological malignancies (1). The B2M/cystatin C ratio has also been shown to be a promising marker of lymphoproliferation in patients with normal or mildly impaired renal function (2).

The kit can be used for measuring B2M in the range 0.5-20 mg/L. The kit contains immunoparticles, i.e. polyclonal rabbit antibody to B2M covalently coupled to polystyrene particles, and, in addition, calibrators, controls and buffers. All reagents are ready for use. A detailed working procedure and Application Notes for Cobas and Hitachi automated instruments are supplied with the kit.