β2 microglobulin also known as B2M is a component of MHC class I molecules, MHC class I molecules have α1, α2, and α3 proteins which are present on all nucleated cells (excludes red blood cells). In humans, the β2 microglobulin protein is encoded by the B2M gene. β2 microglobulin associates not only with the alpha chain of MHC class I molecules, but also with class I-like molecules such as CD1 (5 genes in humans), MR1, the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), and Qa-1 (a form of alloantigen). Nevertheless, the β2 microglobulin gene is outside of the MHC (HLA) locus, on a different chromosome. An additional function is association with the HFE protein, together regulating the expression of hepcidin in the liver which targets the iron transporter ferroportin on the basolateral membrane of enterocytes and cell membrane of macrophages for degradation resulting in decreased iron uptake from food and decreased iron release from recycled red blood cells in the MPS (mononuclear phagocyte system) respectively. Loss of this function causes iron excess and hemochromatosis. In cytomegalovirus infection, a viral protein binds to β2 microglobulin, preventing assembly of MHC class I molecules and their transport to the plasma membrane.

Beta-2-microglobulin
Beta-2-microglobulin form pI 5.3
B2M
CDABP0092, HDCMA22P

p61769

WB,IHC,IF,ICC,IP,FC

WB 1:2000
IHC 1:1000
IF 1:100-1:400
ICC 1:1000
IP 1-2μg/sample
FC 1:1000

Human

Rabbit

Predicted size: 14 kDa

Secreted, Cell surface.

Recombinant Rabbit monoclonal

IgG

Protein A affinity purified.

Liquid

PBS (pH7.4), 0.1% BSA, 40% Glycerol. Preservative: 0.05% Sodium Azide.

Store at +4°C short term. Store at -20°C long term. Avoid freeze / thaw cycle.