AHCYL1, also known as IP3 receptor-binding protein released with IP3 (IRBIT), is a protein involved in multiple cellular functions including autophagy and apoptosis. Recent studies have revealed its significance in cancer biology:
It functions as a negative regulator in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) tumorigenesis by modulating cell differentiation state
Downregulation of AHCYL1 enhances stem-like properties in NSCLC cells, correlating with higher expression of stem markers POU5F1 and CD133
AHCYL1 silencing increases tumorigenicity and angiogenesis in mouse xenograft models
AHCYL1 expression is inversely correlated with proliferation marker Ki67 in NSCLC
In colorectal cancer, tissues without AHCYL1 show weaker recruitment of natural killer cells, CD8+ T cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, with poorer response to immunotherapy
The growing evidence suggests AHCYL1 acts as a tumor suppressor in multiple cancer types, making it an important research target.
Based on commercially available antibodies and published research, AHCYL1 antibodies have been validated for multiple applications:
When planning experiments, researchers should consider cross-validating results using different detection methods to strengthen confidence in findings.
The choice depends on the experimental goals:
Monoclonal AHCYL1 Antibodies:
Provide consistent lot-to-lot reproducibility (critical for longitudinal studies)
Exhibit higher specificity for a single epitope
Example: Cell Signaling Technology's AHCYL1/IRBIT (D3A5G) Rabbit mAb shows high specificity for endogenous AHCYL1 across human, mouse, rat, and monkey samples
Ideal for targeted applications requiring high precision and reproducibility
Polyclonal AHCYL1 Antibodies:
Recognize multiple epitopes, potentially providing stronger signals
May offer broader detection across species variants
Example: Proteintech's 10658-3-AP polyclonal antibody detects AHCYL1 in human, mouse, and rat samples across multiple applications
Better for applications where signal amplification is crucial
For critical research, using both antibody types in parallel provides complementary validation.
For consistent and reliable AHCYL1 detection:
Western Blotting:
Sample loading: 30 μg of protein per lane under reducing conditions
Gel conditions: 5-20% SDS-PAGE gel at 70V (stacking)/90V (resolving) for 2-3 hours
Transfer: Nitrocellulose membrane at 150 mA for 50-90 minutes
Blocking: 5% non-fat milk in TBS for 1.5 hours at room temperature
Immunohistochemistry:
Antigen retrieval: Heat-mediated in EDTA buffer (pH 8.0) or TE buffer (pH 9.0)
Alternative: Citrate buffer (pH 6.0) can be used but may provide less optimal results
Detection system: Biotin-streptavidin amplification with DAB chromogen shows good results
Immunofluorescence:
Cell fixation: 4% paraformaldehyde followed by permeabilization
Antibody dilution: 0.25-2 μg/mL range depending on cell type
Multiple validation approaches should be used in combination:
1. Knockdown/Knockout Controls:
RNAi knockdown validation has been successfully used for AHCYL1 antibodies
Example: HT-29 cells were stably transfected with AHCYL1 shRNA plasmid (Origene cat. MR208502L3V) to create knockdown controls
Specificity confirmed by reduced/absent signal in knockdown/knockout cells
2. Multi-antibody Approach:
Use antibodies targeting different epitopes of AHCYL1:
Concordant results across different antibodies strengthen validity
3. Peptide Competition:
Pre-incubate antibody with immunizing peptide
Example: For antibodies like ABIN6259835, use the synthesized peptide derived from human AHCYL1 N-terminal region
Loss of signal confirms specificity
4. Cross-species Validation:
Test across multiple species where AHCYL1 is conserved
AHCYL1 antibodies with validated reactivity across human, mouse, rat samples provide stronger confidence
AHCYL1 exhibits complex localization patterns that require careful interpretation:
Expected Localization Patterns:
Predominantly cytoplasmic localization with some nuclear presence
In normal tissues, strong AHCYL1 labeling is observed in the epithelial lining of distal airways (bronchioles)
Analytical Considerations:
Co-localization studies: Combine AHCYL1 antibody with subcellular markers for:
Endoplasmic reticulum
Nuclear membrane
Cytoskeletal elements
Cell type-specific variations:
Technical considerations:
Fixation methods can affect observed localization patterns
Paraformaldehyde fixation preserves most AHCYL1 epitopes
Use Z-stack confocal microscopy to resolve true subcellular distribution
For quantitative analysis, researchers should develop scoring systems that account for both intensity and distribution patterns.
Based on published research, these models provide robust systems for AHCYL1 investigation:
Cell Line Models:
A549 and H1299 NSCLC cell lines (well-characterized for AHCYL1 knockdown studies)
HT-29 colorectal cancer cells (validated for AHCYL1 knockdown and functional studies)
HeLa cells (consistently express detectable AHCYL1 levels suitable for antibody validation)
Tissue Models:
Lung adenocarcinoma tissues (show variable AHCYL1 expression with clinical correlation)
Colorectal cancer tissues (AHCYL1 deletion correlates with shorter survival)
Normal bronchiolar epithelium (strong AHCYL1 expression as positive control)
Animal Models:
NOD scid mice xenograft models with AHCYL1-silenced cancer cells
A549 KD-AL1-4 derived tumors show significantly larger size compared to controls
Enhanced angiogenesis observed in AHCYL1-depleted tumors
For comprehensive analysis, researchers should include both models that naturally express high and low levels of AHCYL1.
Multiple studies have identified significant correlations between AHCYL1 and clinical outcomes:
Lung Cancer:
AHCYL1 expression is inversely correlated with Ki67 (Spearman's correlation p=0.002)
Lower AHCYL1 expression associated with recurrence in lung adenocarcinoma patients
Gender association: Higher AHCYL1 expression observed in female vs. male patients
Tumorigenic effects of AHCYL1 silencing were stronger in male mice, suggesting gender-dependent tumor suppressor role
Colorectal Cancer:
AHCYL1 deletion correlates with shorter survival in CRC patients
Tissues without AHCYL1 show reduced recruitment of NK cells, CD8+ T cells, and TILs
Prognostic model based on AHCYL1 and related genes showed high predictive performance for immunotherapy response (C-index of 0.74)
These findings suggest AHCYL1 has potential as a prognostic biomarker and predictor of immunotherapy response across multiple cancer types.
When encountering signal issues with AHCYL1 antibodies, consider these methodological adjustments:
For Weak Signals:
Optimized Antigen Retrieval:
Signal Amplification:
Antibody Concentration Adjustment:
Extended Incubation:
Increase primary antibody incubation from overnight to 48 hours at 4°C
Use humidified chamber to prevent evaporation
For Nonspecific Signals:
Stringent Blocking:
Extend blocking time to 2 hours
Try different blockers (BSA, serum, commercial blockers)
Antibody Validation:
Test on known positive and negative controls
Include peptide competition controls
Buffer Optimization:
Increase salt concentration in wash buffers
Add 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 to reduce background
Sample-specific Adjustments:
For highly autofluorescent tissues, use Sudan Black B treatment
For tissues with high endogenous peroxidase, extend H₂O₂ quenching
AHCYL1 has emerging roles in stem cell biology that require specific experimental approaches:
Experimental Design Considerations:
Stem Cell Marker Co-expression Analysis:
Functional Assays:
Differentiation Dynamics:
Metabolic Profiling:
Interpretation Challenges:
AHCYL1's effects on stemness appear independent of cell proliferation rate
Changes in stemness may be partially independent of histone methylation status
Understanding these nuances is critical for correctly interpreting AHCYL1's role in stem cell biology and cancer stem cell phenotypes.
Based on validated antibody testing data, these samples consistently show reliable AHCYL1 expression:
Cell Line Controls:
Tissue Controls:
Normal bronchiolar epithelium: Shows strong AHCYL1 labeling, particularly at the epithelial lining of distal airways
Expression Systems:
Recombinant AHCYL1 expression systems can serve as positive controls
For antibodies targeting specific epitopes, synthetic peptides derived from the corresponding regions
For comprehensive validation, include samples representing different expression levels (high, medium, low) to establish detection range.
Successful multiplex approaches require careful planning:
Antibody Selection:
Choose AHCYL1 antibodies raised in different host species from other target antibodies
Example: Combine rabbit anti-AHCYL1 (HPA042589) with mouse antibodies against other targets
Verify minimal cross-reactivity between secondary antibodies
Multiplexing Protocols:
Sequential staining approach:
Complete AHCYL1 staining with one fluorophore
Block residual primary antibody binding sites
Proceed with second primary antibody
Combined co-staining approach:
Tyramide signal amplification multiplex:
Allows use of antibodies from same species
Requires microwave treatment between rounds
Analysis Considerations:
Use spectral unmixing to resolve overlapping fluorophores
Include single-stain controls for each fluorophore
Quantify co-localization using appropriate statistical methods (Pearson's coefficient, Manders' coefficient)
For rigorous quantitative analysis of AHCYL1:
IHC Scoring Systems:
In validated studies, AHCYL1 IHC staining has been scored on a 1-4 scale :
Score 1: 5% positive cells
Score 2: 20% positive cells
Score 3: 45% positive cells
Score 4: 30% positive cells
Group samples as "low" or "high" AHCYL1 expression for correlation with clinical parameters
Digital Pathology Approaches:
Whole slide imaging: Scan entire tissue sections for unbiased quantification
Machine learning algorithms: Train to recognize AHCYL1 staining patterns and intensity
Multiplex spatial analysis: Quantify AHCYL1 in relation to microenvironmental features
Correlation Analysis:
Inverse correlation between AHCYL1 and Ki67 provides internal validation
Correlate with other markers like POU5F1, CD133, MUC5B, and SFTPC
Analyze relationship with immune cell infiltration (NK cells, CD8+ T cells, TILs)
Statistical Methods:
Use Spearman's correlation for non-parametric analysis of marker associations
Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to correlate expression with clinical outcomes
Multivariate analysis to account for confounding variables
AHCYL1 has been linked to angiogenesis regulation, offering several experimental approaches:
In Vivo Angiogenesis Assessment:
AHCYL1-depleted cancer cells showed increased vessel density in xenograft models
Quantify vessel density visually in regions surrounding tumor injection sites
Correlate with increased VEGF-A protein levels observed in AHCYL1-depleted cells
Methodological Approach:
Tumor Xenograft Studies:
Inject AHCYL1 wild-type and knockdown cells subcutaneously
After tumor formation (approximately 7 days), analyze vascular patterns
Quantify vessel density using appropriate vessel markers (CD31, CD34)
Molecular Correlation:
Use AHCYL1 antibodies in combination with VEGF-A antibodies
Quantify inverse relationship between AHCYL1 and angiogenic factors
Matrigel Plug Assay:
Embed AHCYL1-manipulated cells in Matrigel
Implant subcutaneously and assess vessel infiltration
Compare vessel formation between AHCYL1-expressing and depleted conditions
Analysis Considerations:
Account for gender differences (AHCYL1 effects appear stronger in males)
Correlate angiogenesis with tumor growth metrics
Consider three-dimensional vessel architecture, not just density
AHCYL1's emerging role in immune response makes it valuable for immunotherapy research:
Clinical Correlations:
AHCYL1 deletion correlates with weaker ability to recruit NK cells, CD8+ T cells, and TILs
Tissues without AHCYL1 show poorer response to immunotherapy
Low-risk group (based on AHCYL1-related gene signature) associates with lower tumor mutational burden (TMB) and higher immunotherapy response
Experimental Design:
Immune Infiltration Analysis:
Use AHCYL1 antibodies in multiplex with immune cell markers
Quantify spatial relationships between AHCYL1 expression and immune cell density
Predictive Model Development:
Functional Validation:
Compare checkpoint inhibitor response in AHCYL1 high vs. low tumors
Correlate AHCYL1 expression with PD-L1, PD-1, and CTLA-4 expression
Methodological Considerations:
Include both hot (immune-rich) and cold (immune-poor) tumors in analysis
Control for confounding factors like tumor type, stage, and previous treatments
Consider AHCYL1 in context of broader tumor immune microenvironment
Multiple studies have identified gender-dependent aspects of AHCYL1 biology:
Observed Gender Differences:
Higher AHCYL1 expression in samples from female versus male cancer patients
Stronger tumorigenic effects of AHCYL1 silencing in male mice
Recommended Research Approaches:
Sex-disaggregated Experimental Design:
Analyze male and female samples separately
Include sufficient statistical power for both sexes
Report sex-specific results even when differences are not observed
Hormonal Context Investigation:
Examine potential interactions between AHCYL1 and hormone receptors
Consider hormonal status in clinical sample analysis
Test AHCYL1 expression under different hormonal conditions in vitro
Comparative Survival Analysis:
Stratify survival analyses by sex
Determine if AHCYL1 has differential prognostic value based on gender
Include gender as a variable in multivariate analysis models
Methodological Considerations:
Document estrous/menstrual cycle stage in female samples when possible
Consider using hormone-depleted serum conditions for in vitro studies
Apply matched case-control designs when comparing across sexes