The ASGR2 antibody targets the asialoglycoprotein receptor 2 (ASGR2), a C-type lectin involved in the endocytosis of desialylated plasma glycoproteins. ASGR2 forms a functional receptor complex with ASGR1 to mediate the clearance of glycoproteins with terminal galactose or N-acetylgalactosamine residues . This antibody is critical for studying liver-specific protein trafficking, immune regulation, and disease mechanisms linked to glycoprotein metabolism.
ASGR2 antibodies are typically monoclonal and designed to bind specific epitopes within the ASGR2 protein. Key structural and functional details include:
The antibody’s paratope binds to unique epitopes on ASGR2, enabling precise detection in assays. ASGR2’s interaction with the complement system’s mannose-binding protein suggests a role in immune complex clearance .
ASGR2 antibodies are validated for multiple experimental approaches:
ASGR2 antibodies aid in studying:
Endocytosis: Mediates the uptake of desialylated glycoproteins, critical for liver homeostasis .
Immune Regulation: Interacts with the complement system to clear immune complexes .
Cancer Research: ASGR2 expression in liver tumors may influence therapeutic targeting .
While not yet widely used in clinical settings, ASGR2 antibodies have potential in:
Liver Disease Diagnostics: Monitoring ASGR2 expression in hepatitis or cirrhosis.
Therapeutic Antibody Development: Targeting ASGR2 for drug delivery to hepatocytes.
| Antibody | Type | Applications | Target Region | Observed Band Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAB9970 | Rabbit Monoclonal | WB, FC, IHC | Gln80-Ala311 | ~45 kDa | |
| ab200196 | Rabbit Recombinant | IP, WB, IHC-P | Full-length ASGR2 | 46 kDa |
Emerging research may explore ASGR2 antibodies in:
Vaccine Development: Studying ASGR2’s role in viral entry or immune evasion.
Biomarker Discovery: Identifying ASGR2 as a prognostic marker in liver diseases.
ASH2L (Absent, Small, or Homeotic-like 2) is a 628 amino acid protein that contains a nuclear localization signal and PHD finger motif, suggesting its function as a transcription regulator. The gene encodes two isoforms through alternative splicing: ASH2L1 (the full-length protein) and ASH2L2 (missing the first 94 amino acid residues found in ASH2L1) . ASH2L shares approximately 60% homology with Drosophila ash2, which positively regulates expression of certain genes in early development . It is particularly important in epigenetic research because it forms part of histone methyltransferase complexes that regulate chromatin structure and gene expression.
ASH2L is highly expressed in specific tissues including fetal liver, testis, and leukemia cell lines with erythroid and megakaryocytic potential (such as K562, Hel, and Dami), suggesting its importance in development and potential roles in certain malignancies . Its involvement in epigenetic regulation makes it a critical target for researchers investigating transcriptional control, development, and disease mechanisms.
Western blotting to detect ASH2L protein expression levels in cell or tissue lysates
Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays to identify ASH2L-associated genomic regions
Immunoprecipitation (IP) to study protein-protein interactions
Immunofluorescence to visualize subcellular localization of ASH2L
When selecting an ASH2L antibody, researchers should verify the specific applications validated by the manufacturer and consider performing preliminary validation experiments to confirm suitability for their particular experimental system.
Validating antibody specificity is critical for ensuring reliable research results. For ASH2L antibodies, consider the following validation approaches:
Positive and negative controls: Use cell lines known to express (e.g., K562, Hel, Dami) or not express ASH2L .
Multiple detection methods: Verify results using complementary techniques (e.g., if using IHC, confirm with Western blot).
Peptide competition assay: Pre-incubate the antibody with the immunizing peptide prior to application to confirm specific binding.
Genetic approaches: Use ASH2L knockdown or knockout samples as negative controls. The signal should be significantly reduced or eliminated in these samples.
Cross-reactivity testing: Test the antibody against related proteins, particularly if working with models where homologs exist.
For recombinant antibodies, reviewing the structural information and production method can provide additional confidence in specificity. When possible, compare results from multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes of ASH2L to further validate findings.
When preparing samples for detecting ASH2L in Western blots, researchers should follow these methodological steps:
Lysis buffer selection: Use RIPA buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl pH 7.4, 150 mM NaCl, 1% NP-40, 0.5% sodium deoxycholate, 0.1% SDS) supplemented with protease inhibitors to efficiently extract nuclear proteins.
Sample preparation:
For cell lines: Harvest 1-5 × 10^6 cells and lyse in 300-500 μL lysis buffer
For tissues: Homogenize 20-50 mg tissue in 500-1000 μL lysis buffer
Protein denaturation: Heat samples at 95°C for 5 minutes in Laemmli buffer containing DTT or β-mercaptoethanol.
Gel selection: Use 8-10% SDS-PAGE gels to achieve optimal separation of ASH2L (expected MW: ~70 kDa).
Transfer conditions: Transfer to PVDF membrane at 100V for 60-90 minutes in standard transfer buffer.
Blocking: Block with 5% non-fat dry milk in TBST for 1 hour at room temperature.
Antibody incubation: Dilute primary antibody according to manufacturer recommendations (typically 1:1000 to 1:2000) and incubate overnight at 4°C.
For optimal results, include positive control samples such as lysates from cell lines known to express ASH2L (e.g., K562) . When troubleshooting, consider that nuclear proteins like ASH2L may require more rigorous extraction methods than cytoplasmic proteins.
Optimizing ChIP protocols for ASH2L antibodies requires careful consideration of several parameters given ASH2L's role as a nuclear protein involved in chromatin regulation:
Crosslinking optimization: Since ASH2L is part of protein complexes that interact with chromatin, a dual crosslinking approach is recommended:
Perform protein-protein crosslinking with DSG (disuccinimidyl glutarate, 2 mM) for 30 minutes at room temperature
Follow with standard formaldehyde crosslinking (1% for 10 minutes)
Chromatin fragmentation:
For sonication: 10-15 cycles (30 seconds ON/30 seconds OFF) to achieve fragments of 200-500 bp
For enzymatic shearing: Optimize digestion time with micrococcal nuclease (MNase)
Antibody selection and validation:
Use antibodies validated specifically for ChIP applications
Perform preliminary IP experiments to confirm the antibody's ability to pull down ASH2L
Consider using antibodies targeting different epitopes to validate findings
Blocking and pre-clearing:
Use 1-2 μg of antibody per 25-30 μg of chromatin
Pre-clear chromatin with protein A/G beads before adding the antibody
Include IgG controls matched to the host species of the ASH2L antibody
Washing stringency:
Employ increasingly stringent washing buffers (low salt, high salt, LiCl, TE)
Monitor signal-to-noise ratio and adjust washing conditions accordingly
Elution and reverse crosslinking:
Elute at 65°C with SDS-containing buffer
Reverse crosslinks overnight at 65°C
For ChIP-seq applications, additional quality control steps should include library preparation with adequate controls and verification of enrichment by qPCR at known target genes before sequencing.
ASH2L participates in multiprotein complexes, making co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) a valuable approach for studying its interactions. Key methodological considerations include:
Lysis conditions:
Use gentler lysis buffers (e.g., 20 mM Tris-HCl pH 7.5, 150 mM NaCl, 1% NP-40, 2 mM EDTA) supplemented with protease inhibitors
Avoid harsh detergents that might disrupt protein-protein interactions
Include phosphatase inhibitors to preserve phosphorylation-dependent interactions
Nuclear extraction:
Since ASH2L is primarily nuclear, employ nuclear extraction kits or protocols
Consider using specialized nuclear complex co-IP buffers containing low concentrations of detergents
Antibody orientation:
Consider both direct approaches (using anti-ASH2L antibodies) and reverse co-IP (using antibodies against suspected interaction partners)
Use 2-5 μg antibody per 500 μg protein extract
Controls:
Include isotype-matched IgG controls
Consider input samples (5-10% of starting material)
Include known interaction partners as positive controls
Use ASH2L-depleted samples as negative controls
Detection methods:
Western blotting with antibodies against known or suspected interaction partners
Consider mass spectrometry for unbiased identification of novel interactions
For confirmation, perform reciprocal co-IPs with antibodies against interaction partners
By optimizing these parameters, researchers can effectively capture and analyze ASH2L-containing protein complexes, providing insights into its functional roles in transcriptional regulation and epigenetic modifications.
When faced with conflicting results from different ASH2L antibodies, systematic troubleshooting and comparative analysis are essential:
Epitope mapping analysis:
Compare the epitope regions targeted by each antibody
Antibodies targeting different domains may yield different results due to:
Epitope masking in protein complexes
Conformational changes affecting epitope accessibility
Post-translational modifications near the epitope region
Isoform specificity assessment:
Validation experiments:
Perform knockdown/knockout experiments with each antibody
Use recombinant ASH2L proteins as positive controls
Conduct peptide competition assays to confirm specificity
Cross-reactivity investigation:
Check for potential cross-reactivity with related proteins
Review the validation data provided by manufacturers
Consider testing in multiple species if working across model organisms
Methodological differences:
Evaluate if discrepancies are application-specific (e.g., an antibody works for Western blot but not IHC)
Adjust protocols for each antibody according to manufacturer recommendations
Multiplexing ASH2L antibodies with other epigenetic markers enables comprehensive analysis of chromatin regulatory landscapes. Effective strategies include:
Compatible antibody selection:
Choose antibodies raised in different host species to avoid cross-reactivity
Select antibodies with non-overlapping emission spectra for fluorescence applications
Verify that epitope unmasking protocols are compatible for all targets
Sequential immunostaining approaches:
For IHC/IF applications, employ tyramide signal amplification (TSA) for sequential detection
Use complete antibody stripping between rounds of staining (verify stripping efficiency)
Consider spectral unmixing for fluorophores with overlapping spectra
Multi-parametric flow cytometry:
Optimize compensation when including ASH2L with other nuclear markers
Include proper FMO (fluorescence minus one) controls
Consider using metal-conjugated antibodies for mass cytometry (CyTOF) to expand multiplexing capacity
Co-immunoprecipitation sequential approaches:
Perform tandem immunoprecipitation to isolate complexes containing multiple markers
Elute under native conditions after first IP, then perform second IP
Analyze by Western blot or mass spectrometry
Chromatin studies:
For sequential ChIP (re-ChIP), optimize elution conditions between immunoprecipitations
Consider CUT&RUN or CUT&Tag approaches for improved sensitivity
Implement ChIP-seq with multiple antibodies in parallel with integrative bioinformatic analysis
When designing multiplexed experiments, carefully validate each antibody individually before combining them, and include appropriate single-stained controls to ensure accurate interpretation of results.
Non-specific binding is a common challenge when working with antibodies for nuclear proteins like ASH2L. Here are methodological approaches to address this issue:
Optimization of blocking conditions:
Test different blocking agents (BSA, non-fat milk, normal serum, commercial blockers)
Extend blocking time (2-3 hours at room temperature or overnight at 4°C)
Add 0.1-0.5% Triton X-100 or Tween-20 to blocking buffer to reduce hydrophobic interactions
Antibody dilution optimization:
Perform titration experiments to identify optimal antibody concentration
Consider using higher dilutions combined with longer incubation times
For Western blots, test dilutions between 1:500 and 1:5000
Pre-adsorption techniques:
Pre-incubate antibody with tissues or cells from species not expressing the target
Use tissue powder from non-expressing samples for pre-adsorption
Consider commercial antibody pre-adsorption kits
Buffer modifications:
Increase salt concentration in wash buffers (up to 500 mM NaCl)
Add low concentrations of SDS (0.1-0.2%) to wash buffers
Include competing proteins (e.g., 0.1-1% BSA) in antibody dilution buffer
Sample preparation refinements:
Ensure complete blocking of endogenous peroxidases for IHC applications
Optimize antigen retrieval methods (heat-induced vs. enzymatic)
Test different fixation methods and durations
By systematically implementing these strategies, researchers can significantly reduce non-specific binding and improve the signal-to-noise ratio when using ASH2L antibodies across different applications.
Proper controls are essential for validating the specificity of ASH2L antibodies. Based on the available information and standard practices in antibody validation, the following controls are recommended:
Positive Controls:
Cell lines with known ASH2L expression:
Tissues with high ASH2L expression:
Recombinant standards:
Purified recombinant ASH2L protein
Cells transfected with ASH2L expression vectors (with appropriate tags)
Negative Controls:
Genetic controls:
Cells with CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ASH2L knockout
Cells treated with validated ASH2L siRNA/shRNA (verify knockdown efficiency)
Immunological controls:
Isotype-matched irrelevant antibodies
Primary antibody omission controls
Peptide competition assays using the immunizing peptide
Cross-species controls:
Samples from species where the antibody is not expected to react
Samples lacking the epitope region (if using domain-specific antibodies)
For comprehensive validation, researchers should implement multiple controls from both categories and document the results thoroughly. This approach provides a robust framework for confirming antibody specificity and ensuring reliable experimental outcomes.
Rigorous analysis and interpretation of quantitative data from ASH2L detection assays require attention to several methodological considerations:
Normalization strategies:
For Western blots:
Normalize to loading controls (β-actin, GAPDH for whole cell lysates; Lamin B, Histone H3 for nuclear fractions)
Consider using total protein normalization methods (e.g., stain-free technology)
For qPCR following ChIP:
Normalize to input DNA (typically 1-10% of starting material)
Include IgG controls to establish background levels
Consider using spike-in controls for between-sample normalization
Dynamic range considerations:
Ensure signal falls within the linear range of detection
Generate standard curves using recombinant protein or serially diluted positive controls
Avoid saturated signals that compromise quantitative analysis
Statistical analysis:
Apply appropriate statistical tests based on experimental design
For comparing multiple groups, use ANOVA with appropriate post-hoc tests
Include sufficient biological replicates (minimum n=3) for meaningful statistical analysis
Comparative analysis:
When comparing ASH2L levels across conditions:
Data visualization:
Present data with appropriate error bars (standard deviation or standard error)
Consider using dot plots alongside bar graphs to show individual data points
For complex datasets, use heatmaps or principal component analysis to identify patterns
Interpreting isoform-specific data:
Multiple factors can influence the reproducibility of results when working with ASH2L antibodies. Understanding and controlling these variables is essential for generating consistent and reliable data:
Antibody-related factors:
Lot-to-lot variability: Document lot numbers and validate new lots
Storage conditions: Maintain appropriate temperature and avoid freeze-thaw cycles
Concentration consistency: Use the same working concentration across experiments
Age of antibody: Monitor potential degradation over time
Sample preparation variables:
Fixation methods and duration (for IHC/IF): Standardize protocols
Extraction buffers: Use consistent formulations for protein isolation
Cell culture conditions: Control passage number, confluence, and growth conditions
Tissue preservation: Standardize collection, fixation, and storage methods
Protocol standardization:
Incubation times and temperatures: Maintain consistency
Washing steps: Standardize duration, buffer composition, and number of washes
Detection systems: Use the same detection method across experiments
Equipment settings: Maintain consistent instrument parameters
Biological variability:
Cell/tissue heterogeneity: Account for inherent biological variation
Expression level fluctuations: Consider temporal dynamics of ASH2L expression
Microenvironment influences: Control for cellular stress, density, and other factors
Data analysis consistency:
Quantification methods: Use the same image analysis algorithms
Region selection: Establish criteria for selecting regions of interest
Threshold determination: Apply consistent thresholding rules
Normalization approaches: Standardize reference controls
Documentation practices:
Maintain detailed experimental records
Document all protocol modifications
Report comprehensive methodological details in publications
Consider pre-registration of experimental protocols
Implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and rigorous quality control measures will significantly enhance the reproducibility of experiments utilizing ASH2L antibodies across different applications and research questions.
Single-cell analysis represents a frontier in understanding cellular heterogeneity in complex tissues. ASH2L antibodies can be integrated into these approaches through several methodological strategies:
Single-cell proteomics approaches:
Mass cytometry (CyTOF): Metal-conjugated ASH2L antibodies enable multiparameter analysis
Single-cell Western blotting: Microfluidic platforms allow protein analysis at single-cell resolution
Imaging mass cytometry: Combines tissue imaging with single-cell resolution proteomic analysis
Spatial transcriptomics integration:
Correlate ASH2L protein localization with transcriptional profiles in tissue sections
Combine immunofluorescence with in situ RNA detection methods
Implement sequential immunofluorescence to combine ASH2L with other markers
Single-cell epigenomic applications:
Single-cell CUT&Tag: Adapt CUT&Tag protocols for single-cell suspensions using ASH2L antibodies
scChIP-seq: Optimize chromatin immunoprecipitation for low input material
Combine with single-cell ATAC-seq to correlate chromatin accessibility with ASH2L binding
Multiomics integration strategies:
CITE-seq adaptation: Develop oligonucleotide-conjugated ASH2L antibodies
Fixed and permeabilized cell approaches for nuclear protein detection
Computational integration of protein, transcriptome, and epigenome data
Technical considerations:
Antibody specificity becomes even more critical at single-cell resolution
Background signal must be rigorously controlled
Validation using orthogonal methods is essential
Careful batch correction and normalization are required
As these techniques continue to evolve, ASH2L antibodies will play an increasingly important role in dissecting epigenetic heterogeneity at the single-cell level, providing insights into developmental processes and disease mechanisms with unprecedented resolution.
Developing isoform-specific antibodies for distinguishing between ASH2L1 and ASH2L2 presents several technical challenges that researchers must address:
Epitope selection constraints:
Validation complexities:
Requiring genetic models expressing only one isoform
Need for recombinant protein standards of each isoform
Development of isoform-specific knockdown/knockout models
Technical production challenges:
Ensuring proper protein folding of recombinant antigens
Maintaining native conformation of epitopes
Addressing potential post-translational modifications
Cross-reactivity issues:
Preventing reactivity with related protein family members
Minimizing non-specific binding to other nuclear proteins
Ensuring specificity across applications (Western blot, IHC, ChIP)
Application-specific optimization:
Different fixation methods may affect epitope accessibility differently for each isoform
Buffer conditions may influence isoform-specific detection
Antibody performance may vary across applications
Current approaches to address these challenges include:
Developing monoclonal antibodies against unique junction sequences at the N-terminus
Using synthetic peptides representing isoform-specific regions as immunogens
Implementing rigorous validation using isoform-specific expression systems
Combining antibody detection with molecular techniques (e.g., RT-PCR) to confirm isoform identity
As research into ASH2L function progresses, developing reliable isoform-specific antibodies will be crucial for understanding the distinct roles of ASH2L1 and ASH2L2 in different cellular contexts and disease states.
Integrating ASH2L antibodies into high-throughput drug screening platforms enables the identification of compounds that modulate ASH2L-containing complexes, with applications in epigenetic drug discovery. Key methodological approaches include:
High-content imaging screens:
Develop automated immunofluorescence workflows using ASH2L antibodies
Quantify changes in nuclear localization, protein levels, or co-localization with other factors
Implement machine learning algorithms for image analysis
Screen compound libraries for molecules affecting ASH2L distribution or expression
AlphaLISA/HTRF assay development:
Design homogeneous assays using ASH2L antibodies coupled to donor beads
Monitor protein-protein interactions or complex formation
Adapt for 384 or 1536-well format for ultra-high-throughput screening
Include appropriate controls for signal specificity
Cell-based reporter systems:
Generate cell lines with reporters linked to ASH2L-regulated promoters
Validate reporter response using ASH2L knockdown/overexpression
Confirm hits using direct ASH2L antibody-based detection methods
Scale for primary and secondary screening campaigns
Targeted degradation approaches:
Screen for compounds that induce ASH2L degradation
Utilize ASH2L antibodies to quantify protein levels in response to treatment
Develop PROTAC (Proteolysis Targeting Chimera) molecules targeting ASH2L
Monitor specificity using western blotting with isoform-specific antibodies
Biochemical screening platforms:
Develop reconstituted systems with purified ASH2L-containing complexes
Screen for inhibitors of enzymatic activity (e.g., histone methyltransferase activity)
Confirm hits using cell-based assays with ASH2L antibody readouts
Profile binding kinetics and selectivity of lead compounds
Implementation considerations include:
Optimization of antibody concentrations for signal-to-background ratio
Development of robust positive and negative controls
Establishment of Z' factor >0.5 for assay quality
Consideration of assay stability over time and plate-to-plate variability
These approaches enable the identification of chemical probes and potential therapeutic candidates targeting ASH2L-dependent epigenetic regulatory pathways in various disease contexts.
While ASH2L antibodies are valuable research tools, their application in therapeutic development faces several important limitations that researchers must consider:
Target accessibility challenges:
ASH2L is primarily a nuclear protein, requiring antibody internalization and nuclear localization
The blood-brain barrier limits CNS delivery for neurological applications
Intracellular delivery systems remain inefficient for nuclear proteins
Specificity concerns:
Current antibodies may not distinguish between normal and disease-specific forms
Cross-reactivity with related proteins could lead to off-target effects
Tissue-specific differences in ASH2L complex formation may affect antibody binding
Functional limitations:
Most research antibodies lack engineered Fc regions required for therapeutic efficacy
Antibodies recognizing functional epitopes may be limited
Static binding may not address the dynamic nature of ASH2L-containing complexes
Technical development barriers:
Humanization requirements for non-human derived antibodies
Need for optimization of pharmacokinetic properties
Manufacturing challenges for consistent production
Stability and formulation issues for clinical applications
Therapeutic strategy considerations:
Limited understanding of tissue-specific roles complicates therapeutic index
Unclear consequences of long-term ASH2L targeting
Potential for compensatory mechanisms
Challenges in patient stratification for precision medicine approaches
Alternative approaches to consider:
Development of intrabodies (intracellular antibodies) with nuclear localization signals
Use of antibody-drug conjugates targeting cell surface markers to deliver ASH2L-modulating payloads
Exploration of small molecules identified through antibody-based screening
Application of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) informed by antibody epitope mapping
As the field advances, addressing these limitations through technological innovations and deeper biological understanding will be essential for translating ASH2L research into therapeutic applications.
Transparent and comprehensive reporting of ASH2L antibody data is essential for research reproducibility and data interpretation. Researchers should adhere to the following best practices when publishing results:
Detailed antibody information:
Complete antibody identification (manufacturer, catalog number, lot number, RRID)
Clone information for monoclonal antibodies or immunogen details for polyclonals
Species, isotype, and antibody format (full IgG, Fab, etc.)
Concentration used in each application (e.g., 1:1000 dilution or 2 μg/mL)
Validation documentation:
Methodological transparency:
Provide complete protocols or detailed methods for antibody-based applications
Specify buffer compositions, incubation times, and temperatures
Document antigen retrieval methods for IHC/IF applications
Describe image acquisition parameters and analysis methods
Results presentation:
Include representative images of controls alongside experimental results
Provide full, uncropped blot images in supplementary materials
Include molecular weight markers on all Western blot images
Present quantitative data with appropriate statistical analysis
Data availability:
Consider depositing raw image data in appropriate repositories
Make analysis code and algorithms publicly available
Provide detailed protocols through protocol sharing platforms
By adhering to these reporting standards, researchers enhance the reproducibility and reliability of ASH2L antibody-based research, facilitating scientific progress and translational applications in this important area of epigenetic regulation.
The field of ASH2L antibody research is poised for significant advancement in the coming years, driven by technological innovations and expanding biological insights:
Next-generation antibody formats:
Development of recombinant nano-antibodies with enhanced nuclear penetration
Creation of bispecific antibodies targeting ASH2L and interaction partners simultaneously
Engineering of conformation-specific antibodies that recognize active vs. inactive states
Production of antibodies with reduced immunogenicity for in vivo applications
Advanced detection technologies:
Integration with spatial multi-omics platforms for tissue-level analysis
Adaptation for live-cell imaging of dynamic ASH2L interactions
Development of biosensors based on antibody binding for real-time monitoring
Implementation in microfluidic devices for single-cell protein analysis
Therapeutic and diagnostic applications:
Identification of ASH2L as a biomarker in specific cancer subtypes
Development of companion diagnostics for epigenetic therapies
Exploration of ASH2L antibody derivatives as therapeutic agents
Use in patient stratification for personalized medicine approaches
Technological integration:
Combination with CRISPR screening for functional genomics
Integration with artificial intelligence for image analysis and pattern recognition
Adaptation for high-throughput drug discovery platforms
Implementation in organoid and patient-derived xenograft models
Expanded biological understanding:
Clarification of isoform-specific functions through selective antibodies
Mapping of tissue-specific ASH2L interactomes
Elucidation of ASH2L roles in development and differentiation
Characterization of post-translational modifications regulating ASH2L function