beta2M is a 12 kDa Ig like glycoprotein expressed on lymphocytes, thymocytes, monocytes, granulocytes, platelets, endothelial cells and epithelial cells. It is absent on erythrocytes. Beta 2-microglobulin is the low molecular weight component of HLA antigens and as such is involved in the presentation of endogenous antigens, activation of T lymphocytes and functional emergence of natural killer cells. It is found in the serum of normal individuals and in the urine in elevated amounts in patients with Wilson disease, cadmium poisoning and other conditions leading renal tubular dysfunction. ESTs have been isolated from libraries generated using virtually every tissue in the body.
Immunogen
B2M monoclonal antibody was raised against purified B2M (Human).
Reacts with beta2-microglobulin (beta2M) associated with cell-surface MHC Class I molecules and other membrane antigens as well as with soluble beta2-microglobulin.