ALS2CR11 (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis 2 Chromosomal Region Candidate Gene 11) is a protein that has been identified in the chromosomal region associated with juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This protein is also known as C2 calcium-dependent domain-containing protein 6 (C2CD6), reflecting its structural characteristics . The significance of ALS2CR11 lies in its potential role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly ALS. While TDP-43 dysregulation has been established as a key pathological hallmark in ALS and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), the role of ALS2CR11 remains an area of active investigation. Research into proteins like ALS2CR11 may contribute to understanding disease mechanisms and potentially identifying novel biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Its investigation parallels other research efforts to find fluid biomarkers for presymptomatic or prodromal phases of ALS-FTD, which would enable earlier diagnosis and facilitate patient recruitment for clinical trials .
ALS2CR11 is known by several alternative names in the scientific literature and research databases. The primary synonyms include:
In protein databases such as UniProt, ALS2CR11 is identified by:
Primary accession number: Q53TS8
Secondary accession numbers: C9IZH7, E9PGG4, Q8NCN6, Q96LN4
Additional database identifiers include:
Understanding these alternative designations is essential when conducting literature searches or database queries to ensure comprehensive coverage of all relevant research.
ALS2CR11 has a molecular weight of approximately 71 kDa, which is important to know when validating antibody specificity in Western blot applications . The protein contains C2 calcium-dependent domains, as indicated by its alternative name (C2CD6). These domains are typically involved in calcium-dependent membrane targeting. The full protein structure has not been comprehensively characterized in the available search results, but researchers studying this protein should be aware that it likely functions in calcium-dependent cellular processes.
When designing experiments to study ALS2CR11, researchers should consider these structural features, particularly when selecting antibodies. For example, the antibody described in search result targets a synthetic peptide derived from human ALS2CR11 (amino acids 491-540), suggesting this region may contain important epitopes for antibody recognition. Similarly, the antibody in search result is raised against the C-terminal region of the protein. Understanding these structural aspects helps in experimental design, particularly for protein interaction studies, localization experiments, or functional assays that might be affected by the calcium-dependent domains.
Based on the available research data, ALS2CR11 antibodies have been validated for several experimental applications with varying performance characteristics. The selection of the appropriate antibody depends on the specific research question and experimental design.
For Western blot applications, all listed antibodies have been validated, making this the most robust application across available antibodies. For immunocytochemistry (ICC) and immunofluorescence (IF), ABIN6258698 appears to be the most versatile option, while ABIN654732 is unique in being validated for flow cytometry (FACS) applications .
When designing experiments, consider the specific epitope targeted by each antibody. For instance, the Abbexa antibody targets the C-terminal region of human ALS2CR11 , while antibody A99973 specifically recognizes amino acids 491-540 . This epitope information is crucial for applications where protein conformation or post-translational modifications might affect antibody binding.
When optimizing Western blot protocols for ALS2CR11 detection, researchers should consider several technical aspects:
Sample Preparation: ALS2CR11 has a molecular weight of 71 kDa , so standard protein extraction methods should be suitable. Use protease inhibitors in your lysis buffer to prevent degradation.
Antibody Selection and Dilution:
Blocking Conditions: Given that these are polyclonal antibodies, 5% non-fat milk or 3-5% BSA in TBST is typically sufficient for blocking non-specific binding sites.
Validation Controls: Include both positive controls (cell lines known to express ALS2CR11) and negative controls (either knockdown samples or non-expressing tissues) to confirm specificity.
Secondary Antibody Selection: For the rabbit polyclonal antibodies (Abbexa and A99973), recommended secondary antibodies include:
Detection Method: HRP-conjugated secondary antibodies with ECL substrate are commonly used, but for low expression levels, more sensitive detection methods may be required.
Troubleshooting: If experiencing high background, increase the number or duration of wash steps or further dilute the primary antibody. If signal is weak, consider longer exposure times, increased antibody concentration, or signal enhancement systems.
The Western blot validation image available for antibody A99973 demonstrates successful detection of ALS2CR11, providing evidence for the effectiveness of these protocols when properly optimized.
For developing ELISA protocols to detect ALS2CR11, researchers should consider the following methodological approaches:
Antibody Selection: Multiple antibodies are validated for ELISA applications, including ABIN6258698, ABIN3183257, the Abbexa antibody, and A99973 . Different antibodies may have different sensitivities and specificities.
Antibody Dilutions:
Plate Coating: For direct ELISA, coat plates with your sample. For sandwich ELISA, use one ALS2CR11 antibody as capture antibody and another (preferably recognizing a different epitope) as detection antibody.
Standard Curve Development: If quantifying ALS2CR11, consider using recombinant ALS2CR11 protein (such as ABIN1344951 ) as a standard to generate a calibration curve.
Sample Types: The available antibodies have been validated with human samples , with ABIN6258698 also showing reactivity with mouse samples . Consider species cross-reactivity when designing experiments.
Controls: Include both positive controls (samples known to contain ALS2CR11) and negative controls (buffer only or samples known not to contain ALS2CR11).
Detection System: For unconjugated primary antibodies, use an appropriate enzyme-conjugated secondary antibody system matched to your primary antibody host species.
Validation: Confirm ELISA results with another method such as Western blot to ensure specificity, particularly in complex biological samples.
For researchers studying ALS2CR11 in the context of neurodegenerative diseases, developing a sensitive ELISA could potentially contribute to biomarker discovery efforts similar to those being pursued for TDP-43-related biomarkers in ALS-FTD .
To investigate ALS2CR11's potential role in ALS pathogenesis, researchers can employ several advanced experimental approaches utilizing available antibodies:
Tissue Expression Profiling: Use immunohistochemistry with ALS2CR11 antibodies (like ABIN6258698, which is validated for ICC/IF ) to compare expression patterns in postmortem tissues from ALS patients versus controls. Focus on motor neurons, the primary affected cell type in ALS.
Protein-Protein Interaction Studies: Employ ALS2CR11 antibodies for co-immunoprecipitation experiments to identify interaction partners, particularly with known ALS-associated proteins like TDP-43, which is known to be dysregulated in ALS .
Subcellular Localization Studies: Use immunofluorescence with ALS2CR11 antibodies to determine if the protein's subcellular localization changes in disease states, similar to the nuclear-to-cytoplasmic mislocalization observed with TDP-43 in ALS .
Animal Model Validation: ABIN6258698 shows cross-reactivity with mouse samples , enabling studies in ALS mouse models to correlate ALS2CR11 expression or localization with disease progression.
Patient-Derived Cell Models: Apply ALS2CR11 antibodies in immunofluorescence or Western blot studies of iPSC-derived motor neurons from ALS patients versus controls to investigate expression changes.
Biomarker Investigation: Given recent advances in identifying fluid biomarkers for ALS , researchers could explore whether ALS2CR11 levels in cerebrospinal fluid or blood correlate with disease progression, using techniques like ELISA with the validated antibodies.
Functional Studies: Combine ALS2CR11 antibodies with calcium imaging techniques to investigate whether the calcium-dependent domains of ALS2CR11 (C2CD6) play a role in calcium dysregulation, which has been implicated in ALS pathogenesis.
These approaches would enable researchers to build a comprehensive understanding of ALS2CR11's potential contribution to ALS, placing it in context with established disease mechanisms like TDP-43 pathology.
When investigating interactions between ALS2CR11 and other ALS-associated proteins, researchers should consider several methodological and biological factors:
Selection of Interaction Partners: Prioritize proteins with established roles in ALS pathogenesis, such as:
Co-immunoprecipitation Approach:
Proximity Ligation Assays:
Combine ALS2CR11 antibodies with antibodies against potential interacting partners
This technique can visualize protein interactions in situ within cells or tissues with high specificity
Functional Relevance:
Disease Context:
Compare interaction patterns in normal versus disease states (using ALS patient samples or models)
Determine if interactions are altered in response to cellular stressors relevant to ALS
Technical Considerations:
Ensure antibodies used recognize native protein conformations if studying interactions in non-denaturing conditions
Consider epitope availability in protein complexes; antibodies targeting regions involved in protein-protein interactions may show reduced binding
Controls and Validation:
Understanding these potential interactions could provide insights into whether ALS2CR11 participates in established ALS pathogenic pathways or represents a novel disease mechanism.
Integrating ALS2CR11 studies with emerging biomarker research in neurodegenerative diseases requires a strategic approach that connects fundamental protein biology with clinical applications:
Correlation with Established Biomarkers: Compare ALS2CR11 expression or modifications with emerging biomarkers like the TDP-43-dependent cryptic epitope in HDGFL2, which has shown promise as an early biomarker for ALS-FTD, even in presymptomatic stages . This comparison could establish whether ALS2CR11 changes precede, coincide with, or follow other biomarker changes.
Fluid Biomarker Development:
Adapt existing ELISA protocols using validated ALS2CR11 antibodies to detect the protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood samples
Compare levels between ALS patients, those with other neurodegenerative diseases, and healthy controls
Investigate whether levels correlate with disease progression, similar to analyses performed with neurofilament light and phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain proteins
Longitudinal Studies:
Monitor ALS2CR11 levels in biological fluids from presymptomatic mutation carriers (e.g., C9orf72 mutation carriers) through disease progression
Determine if changes in ALS2CR11 could serve as early diagnostic markers or predictors of disease onset
Multiplex Biomarker Panels:
Develop assays that simultaneously measure ALS2CR11 alongside other promising biomarkers
Assess whether combinations of biomarkers provide better diagnostic or prognostic value than single markers
Target Engagement Markers:
Methodology Standardization:
Establish standardized protocols for ALS2CR11 detection in clinical samples
Conduct inter-laboratory validation to ensure reproducibility of results
Cross-Disease Comparisons:
Investigate ALS2CR11 as a potential biomarker across the ALS-FTD spectrum and related neurodegenerative conditions
Determine if it shows disease specificity or represents a more general marker of neurodegeneration
By integrating ALS2CR11 studies with broader biomarker research, researchers can potentially contribute to improving early diagnosis, patient stratification for clinical trials, and monitoring of disease progression and treatment response in ALS and related neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers working with ALS2CR11 antibodies may encounter several technical challenges. Here are common issues and strategies to address them:
Low Signal Intensity in Western Blots:
Problem: Weak or absent bands despite proper sample preparation.
Solutions:
Optimize antibody concentration (try the more concentrated end of recommended dilutions, e.g., 1/500 for Abbexa antibody or 1:500 for A99973 )
Increase protein loading (30-50 μg total protein)
Extend primary antibody incubation (overnight at 4°C)
Use enhanced chemiluminescence substrates designed for higher sensitivity
Consider membrane transfer optimization (extend transfer time for high molecular weight proteins)
Non-specific Binding and High Background:
Problem: Multiple bands or high background obscuring specific signal.
Solutions:
Increase blocking time or concentration (e.g., 5% milk/BSA for 2 hours)
More stringent washing (increase number of washes and duration)
Further dilute primary antibody
Add 0.1-0.5% Tween-20 to antibody dilution buffer
Use more specific secondary antibodies and consider cross-adsorbed versions
Cross-Reactivity Issues:
Problem: Signal in samples where ALS2CR11 should not be present.
Solutions:
Validate with positive and negative controls
Perform knockdown/knockout validation
Try alternative antibodies that target different epitopes
Pre-absorb antibody with recombinant ALS2CR11 protein as a competition control
Inconsistent ELISA Results:
Problem: High variability between replicates or experiments.
Solutions:
Standardize sample preparation methods
Carefully control incubation times and temperatures
Use automated plate washers if available
Develop a robust standard curve using recombinant ALS2CR11 protein
Consider sandwich ELISA approach using two different antibodies
Poor Immunostaining Results:
Problem: Weak or non-specific staining in ICC/IF applications.
Solutions:
Storage and Stability Issues:
Problem: Decreased antibody performance over time.
Solutions:
Store antibodies according to manufacturer recommendations (typically aliquoted at -20°C)
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Add carrier protein (BSA) to diluted antibody solutions
Check for visible precipitation before use
By systematically addressing these challenges, researchers can optimize their experimental protocols for studying ALS2CR11 in neurodegenerative disease research.
When researchers encounter unexpected molecular weight variations of ALS2CR11 in Western blot results, systematic analysis is required to determine whether these represent biologically significant variants or technical artifacts:
Expected vs. Observed Molecular Weight:
Assessment of Higher Molecular Weight Bands:
Potential biological explanations:
Ubiquitination or SUMOylation (typically adding 8-20 kDa increments)
Glycosylation (variable size increases)
Protein dimerization or complex formation (if sample preparation includes incomplete denaturation)
Validation approaches:
Treat samples with deglycosylation enzymes to determine if glycosylation contributes to size shifts
Use stronger reducing conditions to disrupt potential dimers
Perform immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry to identify modifications
Assessment of Lower Molecular Weight Bands:
Potential biological explanations:
Alternative splicing variants (check genomic databases for predicted variants)
Proteolytic cleavage products (potentially disease-relevant)
C-terminal or N-terminal truncations
Validation approaches:
Compare results using antibodies targeting different epitopes (N-terminal vs C-terminal)
Include protease inhibitors in sample preparation to determine if bands represent degradation products
Perform RT-PCR to detect alternative transcripts
Technical Considerations:
Sample preparation artifacts:
Insufficient denaturation (leading to aberrant migration)
Protein degradation during extraction
Incomplete transfer of high molecular weight proteins
Gel percentage effects:
Lower percentage gels (6-8%) provide better resolution for higher molecular weight variants
Higher percentage gels (12-15%) better resolve smaller fragments
Tissue or Cell-Type Specific Variations:
Compare patterns across different tissues or cell types
Determine if variations correlate with disease state or experimental conditions
Consider whether variations are consistent across biological replicates
Confirmation Strategies:
Peptide competition assays to confirm specificity of variant bands
siRNA knockdown to determine which bands decrease with reduced expression
Overexpression of ALS2CR11 to identify which bands increase
Mass spectrometry of excised bands for definitive identification
Understanding these variations could potentially reveal disease-relevant modifications of ALS2CR11, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative conditions where protein modifications often play important pathogenic roles.
Sample Size Determination:
Perform power analysis before beginning experiments to determine appropriate sample size
For human studies in neurodegenerative diseases, consider the inherent variability and aim for larger sample sizes when feasible
For cell culture experiments, ensure at least 3-5 biological replicates and multiple technical replicates
Normalization Strategies for Western Blot Analysis:
Normalize ALS2CR11 signal to appropriate loading controls:
Housekeeping proteins (β-actin, GAPDH, tubulin) for total protein normalization
Compartment-specific markers if studying subcellular fractions
Consider total protein normalization methods (Ponceau S, REVERT, Stain-Free technology) to avoid issues with variable housekeeping protein expression
Densitometry Quantification:
Use linear range of detection for quantification
Avoid saturated signals which prevent accurate quantification
Analyze band intensity using software like ImageJ, Image Lab, or similar programs
Apply background subtraction consistently across all samples
Statistical Tests for Two-Group Comparisons:
For normally distributed data: Independent t-test with Welch's correction if variances differ
For non-normally distributed data: Mann-Whitney U test
Report both p-values and effect sizes (Cohen's d or similar)
Statistical Tests for Multi-Group Comparisons:
For normally distributed data: One-way ANOVA with appropriate post-hoc tests (Tukey, Bonferroni, or Dunnett's depending on comparison needs)
For non-normally distributed data: Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn's post-hoc test
Control for multiple comparisons to reduce Type I error
ELISA Data Analysis:
Generate standard curves using appropriate regression models (4-parameter logistic for most ELISAs)
Report intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation
Calculate sample concentrations from the linear portion of the standard curve
Confirm that samples fall within the assay's quantifiable range
Correlation Analysis:
When comparing ALS2CR11 levels with clinical parameters or other biomarkers:
Pearson correlation for normally distributed data
Spearman correlation for non-normally distributed data
Consider multiple regression models to account for confounding variables
Longitudinal Data Analysis:
For studies tracking ALS2CR11 levels over time:
Repeated measures ANOVA or mixed-effects models
Survival analysis methods if correlating with disease progression
Reporting Standards:
Include all data points in graphical representations when possible
Report measures of central tendency AND dispersion (mean±SD or median with interquartile range)
Clearly state statistical tests used and significance thresholds
Consider graphical representation of effect sizes alongside p-values
These statistical approaches will help ensure robust, reproducible quantitative analysis of ALS2CR11 expression in comparative studies, particularly important in the context of biomarker research for neurodegenerative diseases.
Several cutting-edge technologies hold promise for advancing ALS2CR11 detection and functional characterization in neurodegenerative disease research:
Advanced Imaging Technologies:
Super-resolution microscopy (STORM, PALM, STED) could reveal precise subcellular localization of ALS2CR11 beyond the capabilities of conventional microscopy, using existing antibodies validated for immunofluorescence like ABIN6258698
Expansion microscopy could physically enlarge specimens to visualize ALS2CR11 distribution within cellular compartments
Lattice light-sheet microscopy would allow long-term live-cell imaging to track ALS2CR11 dynamics with minimal phototoxicity
Single-Cell Analysis Methods:
Single-cell proteomics could detect cell-to-cell variations in ALS2CR11 expression that might be masked in bulk tissue analysis
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) with metal-conjugated ALS2CR11 antibodies would allow simultaneous detection of multiple proteins in single cells
Spatial transcriptomics combined with immunodetection could correlate ALS2CR11 protein localization with gene expression patterns
Proximity-Based Protein Interaction Methods:
BioID or APEX proximity labeling using ALS2CR11 fusion constructs would identify neighboring proteins in living cells
Split-protein complementation assays could validate specific protein-protein interactions in cellular contexts
FRET/FLIM analyses using fluorescently-tagged ALS2CR11 could detect direct protein interactions and conformational changes
Advanced Protein Modification Analysis:
Top-down proteomics approaches could characterize intact ALS2CR11 and its proteoforms
Targeted mass spectrometry (PRM/MRM) could quantify specific ALS2CR11 peptides or post-translational modifications with high sensitivity
Phospho-specific antibodies could be developed to track activity-dependent modifications of ALS2CR11
CRISPR-Based Technologies:
CRISPR activation/inhibition (CRISPRa/CRISPRi) could modulate ALS2CR11 expression without altering the genomic sequence
CRISPR knock-in of fluorescent tags could enable live imaging of endogenous ALS2CR11
Base editing or prime editing could introduce specific mutations to study structure-function relationships
Microfluidic and Organ-on-Chip Technologies:
Microfluidic-based protein analysis could enable ultra-sensitive detection of ALS2CR11 in limited samples
Neuromuscular junction-on-chip models could explore ALS2CR11 function in a physiologically relevant context for ALS research
Blood-brain barrier models could investigate if ALS2CR11 crosses from CNS to periphery, relevant for biomarker development
Ultrasensitive Detection Methods:
Single-molecule array (Simoa) technology could detect ALS2CR11 at femtomolar concentrations in biological fluids
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) or biolayer interferometry (BLI) could characterize antibody-antigen interactions with high precision
Digital ELISA approaches could improve sensitivity for detecting ALS2CR11 in CSF or blood samples
Integration of these emerging technologies with existing antibody resources would significantly advance our understanding of ALS2CR11's role in health and disease, potentially contributing to biomarker development for neurodegenerative diseases.
The comprehensive characterization of ALS2CR11 could significantly impact personalized medicine approaches in ALS through several interconnected pathways:
Biomarker-Based Patient Stratification:
ALS2CR11 detection using validated antibodies could potentially identify distinct patient subgroups with different disease mechanisms
Combined with other biomarkers like the HDGFL2 cryptic epitope , ALS2CR11 could help create biomarker signatures for different ALS subtypes
This stratification could enable:
More homogeneous patient groups for clinical trials
Targeted therapeutic approaches based on specific disease mechanisms
More accurate prognosis prediction at individual patient level
Pharmacodynamic Monitoring:
Changes in ALS2CR11 levels or modifications could serve as indicators of target engagement in clinical trials
Similar to how researchers are using TDP-43-related biomarkers , ALS2CR11 measurements could help determine if therapeutic interventions are having desired molecular effects
This would allow:
Earlier assessment of treatment efficacy
Dose optimization for individual patients
Identification of treatment responders versus non-responders
Presymptomatic Disease Detection:
If ALS2CR11 abnormalities occur early in disease pathogenesis, antibody-based detection methods could identify individuals at risk before symptom onset
This parallels findings with TDP-43-dependent cryptic epitopes in presymptomatic C9orf72 mutation carriers
Benefits include:
Window for preventive interventions
Earlier enrollment in clinical trials when therapeutic benefit may be maximized
Extended monitoring period to understand disease progression mechanisms
Therapeutic Target Identification:
Detailed characterization of ALS2CR11 function and interactions could reveal:
Druggable pathways specific to certain patient populations
Opportunities for gene therapy approaches in cases with ALS2CR11 abnormalities
Potential for antibody-based therapeutics targeting specific ALS2CR11 conformations
Integration with Genetic Information:
Correlating ALS2CR11 expression or modifications with genetic variants could:
Identify genotype-phenotype relationships
Reveal how specific mutations affect ALS2CR11 function
Guide genetic counseling and risk assessment
Liquid Biopsy Development:
Optimized antibody-based detection methods for ALS2CR11 in blood or CSF could:
Enable non-invasive longitudinal monitoring
Facilitate repeated sampling to track disease progression
Support at-home monitoring technologies for personalized care
Treatment Response Prediction:
Baseline ALS2CR11 measurements might predict which patients will respond to specific therapies
Changes in ALS2CR11 early after treatment initiation could indicate long-term response probability
This would allow treatment plan adjustments based on individual molecular responses
These personalized medicine applications would leverage the antibody resources identified in the search results and build upon emerging biomarker approaches in the ALS-FTD field , ultimately improving patient care through more individualized treatment strategies.
When working with ALS2CR11 antibodies in neurodegenerative disease research, several critical methodological considerations should guide experimental design and execution:
Antibody Selection and Validation:
Choose antibodies based on the specific research question and required applications (WB, ELISA, ICC/IF, FACS)
Verify antibody specificity through multiple validation methods (knockdown controls, recombinant protein, multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes)
Consider the specific epitope recognized by each antibody and how this might affect detection in different experimental contexts
Species Considerations:
Technical Protocol Optimization:
Controls and Reproducibility:
Quantification and Statistical Analysis:
Use appropriate normalization methods when quantifying ALS2CR11 expression
Apply rigorous statistical approaches suited to the experimental design
Report both technical variability (assay performance) and biological variability (sample differences)
Integration with Other Methodologies:
Combine antibody-based detection with complementary approaches (e.g., mRNA expression, proteomics)
Consider how antibody-based findings can be validated using genetic or pharmacological manipulation
Interpret antibody-based results in the context of functional studies
Translational Considerations:
When developing biomarker applications, validate findings in well-characterized patient cohorts
Consider pre-analytical variables that might affect ALS2CR11 detection in clinical samples
Establish reference ranges and assess assay performance metrics (sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility)