CA19-9 (Sialyl Lewis a)

Antigen Background

CA19-9 is an epitope on the sialylated Lewis^a carbohydrate structure. Sialylated Lewis^a plays a role in cell adhesion by acting as a functional ligand for the inducible adhesion molecule E-selectin. CA19-9 and CA50 (carcinoma associated mucin antigen) are useful serum markers in the diagnosis and follow up of gastrointestinal and pancreatic cancers. In carcinoma of the pancreas, it is reported that the immunohistochemical expression of both CA19-9 and CA50 correlates with tumor differentiation, where the strongest staining is observed in well-differentiated tumors. These two markers are also reported in a number of benign lesions such as chronic pancreatitis.

Product Specific Information

Clone C241:5:1:4 reacts specifically with Sialyl Lewis^a - containing glycolipids, showing no crossreaction with Lewis^a, Lewis^b, or other structurally related molecules. The epitope recognized by NCL-L-CA19-9 is designated CA19-9.

Disclaimer

CA19-9 (Sialyl Lewis^a) is recommended for the detection of specific antigens of interest in normal and neoplastic tissues, as an adjunct to conventional histopathology using non-immunologic histochemical stains.