By immunohistochemistry, it specifically recognizes a protein in melanocytes and melanomas. This mAb reacts with junctional and blue nevus cells and variably with fetal and neonatal melanocytes. Intradermal nevi, normal adult melanocytes, and non-melanocytic cells are negative. It does not stain tumor cells of epithelial, lymphoid, glial, or mesenchymal origin. Metastatic amelanotic melanoma can often be confused with a variety of poorly differentiated carcinomas, large cell lymphomas, and sarcomas using H & E stains alone. It is also difficult to differentiate melanoma from spindle cell carcinomas and various types of mesenchymal neoplasms. This mAb stains fetal and neonatal melanocytes, junctional and blue nevus cells, and malignant melanoma. This mAb also stains Angiomyolipoma (PEComa).

Store the gp100 antibody cocktail at 2-8°C (with azide) or aliquot and store at -20°C or colder (without azide).