β2-microglobulin (β2m) is a component of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules that is present in a majority of all cells except for red blood cells. β2m is routinely shed by cells into the blood, specifically B lymphocytes and tumor cells.

As a biomarker, β2-microglobulin levels have usually been correlated with renal function. Abnormally high levels in urine alongside abnormally high levels in blood are associated with renal failure since β2m circulating in the blood is initially filtered in the kidneys by the glomeruli, then reabsorbed in the proximal tubules of the kidneys. If there is damage on one of those structures the concentrations of β2-microglobulin can increase in blood or urine respectively.

Beyond being a renal function marker, β2-microglobulin is also a type of tumor marker associated with multiple myeloma and with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In the case of multiple myeloma, serum β2m is included in the international staging system as a prognostic parameter alongside other parameters¹. For chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), β2-microglobulin is included in a prognostic model combined with other genetic, and clinical parameters in order to allow a more precise management of the disease².

β2-microglobulin is being used in different medical conditions with increasing needs by the medical community and patients. Are you ready for that?
 

(1) Greipp PR, San Miguel J, Durie BG, Crowley JJ, Barlogie B, Bladé J, Boccadoro M, Child JA, Avet-Loiseau H, Harousseau JL, Kyle RA, Lahuerta JJ, Ludwig H, Morgan G, Powles R, Shimizu K, Shustik C, Sonneveld P, Tosi P, Turesson I, Westin J. International staging system for multiple myeloma. J Clin Oncol [Internet]. 2005;23(15):3412-20. [cited: 2020 Mar 6]. Available from: https://ascopubs.org/doi/pdf/10.1200/JCO.2005.04.242. 

(2) An international prognostic index for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL-IPI): a meta-analysis of individual patient data. Lancet Oncol. 2016;17(6):779-790. 
 

What Biokit can offer you

Whether you are envisioning a panel expansion in cancer-related parameters or securing and improving your current operations related to your portfolio, we can help you with Biokit β2-microglobulin bulk reagent. The Biokit β2m bulk reagent is a latex-based immunoassay. When a sample containing β2m is mixed with the reagent, a clear agglutination occurs, which can be measured by turbidimetry.

*Standardization, on board stability and linearity studies performed using an ILab600/650 analyzer (Instrumentation Laboratory)

Biokit β2-microglobulin bulk offering consists of the following products: