The WM53 monoclonal antibody specifically recognizes CD33 which is also known as Sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 3 (Siglec-3) or gp67. CD33 is a 67 kDa type I transmembrane glycoprotein that is variably expressed on myeloid progenitors, monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, basophils, mast cells, and on some activated T cells and NK cells. Normal lymphocytes, platelets, erythrocytes and pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells do not express the CD33 antigen. This glycoprotein reportedly functions as a sialic acid-dependent cell adhesion molecule and this function can be modulated by endogenous sialoglycoconjugates when CD33 is expressed on the membrane.
The antibody was conjugated to BD Horizon™ BV421 which is part of the BD Horizon Brilliant™ Violet family of dyes. With an Ex Max near 407 nm and Em Max near 421 nm, BD Horizon™ BV421 can be excited by the violet laser (405 nm) and detected with a 450/50 nm filter. BD Horizon™ BV421 conjugates are very bright, often exhibiting a 10 fold improvement in brightness compared to Pacific Blue™ conjugates. Due to nearly identical excitation and emission properties but different spillover characteristics, BD Horizon™ BV421, Pacific Blue™, and BD Horizon™ V450 cannot be used simultaneously.