CD8

CD8 is a transmembrane glycoprotein that serves as a co-receptor for the T-cell receptor (TCR). Like the TCR, CD8 binds to a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule that is specific for the Class I MHC protein. To function, CD8 forms a dimer, consisting of a pair of CD8 chains. The most common form of CD8 is composed of a CD8-α and CD8-β, chain, both members of the immunoglobulin superfamily with an immunoglobulin variable (IgV)-like extracellular domain connected to the membrane by a thin stalk, and an intracellular tail.

CD8 is a T-cell marker for the detection of cytotoxic/suppressor cells of blood lymphocytes. CD8 is also detected on NK cells, most thymocytes, a subpopulation of null cells and bone marrow cells. This antibody is used to distinguish between reactive and neoplastic T-cells.

CD8 is a mouse monoclonal antibody derived from tissue culture supernatant diluted in Phosphate Buffered Saline, pH 7.6, with protein base, and preserved with Sodium Azide preservative.

1. Gao G, Jakobsen B, Immunol Today. 2000;21(12):630-636
2. Rossi ML, Sanchez FC, et al. J Clin Path. 1988;41:314-319
3. Stein H, Lennart K, et al. Adv Cancer Res. 1984;42:67-147
4. Phan-Dinh-Tuy F, Niaudet P, et al. Mol Immun. 1982;19:1649-1654

1. Cut and mount 3-4 micron formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues on positive charged slides.
2. Air dry for 2 hours at 58° C.
3. Deparaffinize, dehydrate and rehydrate tissues.
4. Subject tissues to heat epitope retrieval using a suitable retrieval solution such as ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate (BSB 0020-BSB 0023) or EDTA (BSB 0030-BSB 0033).
5. Any of three heating methods may be used:
   • Electric Pressure Cooker
     Place standoff rack at base of pressure cooker. Add 1-2 inches of distilled water to the pressure cooker and turn heat to high, and incubate for 15 minutes. Open and immediately transfer slides to room temperature.
   • Water Bath Method
     Place tissues/slides in a pre-warmed staining dish or coplin jar containing the ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate or EDTA in a water bath set at 95°-99° C. Incubate for 30-60 minutes.
   • Conventional Steamer Method
     Place tissues/slides in a pre-warmed staining dish or coplin jar containing the ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate or EDTA in a Steamer, cover and steam for 30-60 minutes.
6. After heat treatment, transfer slides in ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate or EDTA to room temperature and let stand for 15-20 minutes.
7. Wash slides with IHC wash buffer or DI water.
8. Continue IHC staining protocol.