Unconjugated Myeloperoxidase antibody (19H2)

Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is a heme containing enzyme that is abundantly expressed in the azurophilic granules of polymorphonuclear (PMN) phagocytes. It plays an important role in the host defense against a range of microorganisms. During PMN activation, MPO catalyzes the oxidation of halides to form hypohalus acids including hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a potent oxidant and antimicrobial agent. MPO is believed to be involved in tissue injury and the pathogenesis of lung cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis. It has also been associated with the atherogenic modification of low density lipoprotein and may play a role in the initiation and progression of cardiovascular diseases. In the clinical setting, an increased MPO level in patient’s blood serves as a risk marker for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. It is also used to predict the early risk of myocardial infarction and the risk of cardiovascular complications in patients presenting with chest pain. Reports suggest that MPO may also be useful as a biomarker to predict outcomes independently of other well known risk markers including troponins, creatine kinase MB isoform and C-reactive protein.