Specificity: Recognizes the human CD59 cell surface antigen, an 18-20kD GPI linked glycoprotein broadly expressed by human leucocytes and erythrocytes. Clone YTH53.1 has been shown to block the normal function of CD59. Removal of sodium azide is recommended prior to use in functional assays. XXX recommend the use of EQU003 for this purpose. CD59 is expressed by erythrocytes, and therefore staining in whole blood systems requires a higher concentration of antibody.