MTACP2 Antibody

Introduction to MeCP2 Antibodies

MeCP2 antibodies are immunological tools designed to detect and study the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2, a chromatin-associated protein that modulates gene expression by binding methylated DNA. MeCP2 dysfunction is linked to RTT, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder . These antibodies are essential for investigating MeCP2's dual roles as a transcriptional activator and repressor , its cell-type-specific expression, and its isoforms (MeCP2E1 and MeCP2E2) .

Key Applications of MeCP2 Antibodies

MeCP2 antibodies are validated for diverse techniques:

Isoform-Specific Antibodies

• MeCP2E1 vs. MeCP2E2:

  • Anti-MeCP2E1 (chicken polyclonal) shows no cross-reactivity with MeCP2E2 and detects endogenous MeCP2E1 in murine brain .

  • MeCP2 (D4F3) XP® Rabbit mAb (#3456) recognizes both isoforms (A and B) without cross-reacting with other MBD proteins .

Knockout Validation

• ab195393: No signal in MECP2 knockout HCT116 or U-87 MG cells .

• PA1-887: Validated in Mecp2 null mice .

Isoform-Specific Expression in the Brain

• MeCP2E1 constitutes >90% of total MeCP2 in murine neurons and is absent in astrocytes .

• Transgenic MeCP2E1 rescues RTT phenotypes in mice, highlighting its therapeutic potential .

Role in Gene Regulation

• MeCP2 binds promoters of genes like Sst and Mef2c, acting as both activator and repressor .

• Electrochemiluminescence immunoassays (ECLIAs) quantify MeCP2 levels in nuclear extracts, aiding drug development .

X-Inactivation Studies

• Rat monoclonal antibodies quantify X-inactivation skewing in heterozygous female Mecp2 knockout mice .

Challenges and Considerations

• Cross-Reactivity: Some antibodies detect non-specific bands; rigorous validation using knockout controls is essential .

• Epitope Localization: Most antibodies target the C-terminal domain, while few recognize the N-terminus .