ATP6V1E2 (ATPase, H+ transporting, lysosomal 31kDa, V1 subunit E2) is a protein component of vacuolar ATPase complexes responsible for acidification of intracellular compartments. The protein functions as part of the V1 domain of V-ATPase, which is essential for the catalytic ATP hydrolysis that drives proton transport. Researching ATP6V1E2 is valuable because V-ATPases play critical roles in numerous cellular processes including membrane trafficking, protein degradation, neurotransmitter uptake, and maintenance of pH homeostasis. ATP6V1E2's specific 226 amino acid sequence translates to a calculated molecular weight of 26 kDa, though it typically appears as a 31-33 kDa band in experimental conditions due to post-translational modifications .
The commercially available ATP6V1E2 antibodies predominantly demonstrate cross-reactivity with human, mouse, and rat samples as confirmed by multiple manufacturers . Certain antibody clones may show expanded reactivity profiles that include bovine, canine, and ovine samples, though validation intensity varies across these additional species . When designing cross-species experiments, researchers should verify the specific epitope recognition patterns, as antibodies targeting different amino acid sequences (such as AA 1-226 versus AA 71-120) may exhibit different cross-reactivity profiles . For comparative studies between mammalian models, prioritize antibodies with documented validation across all relevant species or conduct preliminary validation tests to confirm consistent epitope recognition before proceeding with critical experiments.
To maintain maximum reactivity and specificity throughout longitudinal research projects, ATP6V1E2 antibodies should be stored at -20°C in their shipped buffer solutions, which typically contain PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol at pH 7.3 . Under these conditions, most commercial preparations remain stable for approximately one year after shipment . For antibodies at working concentrations (0.05-0.1 mg/ml), avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles is crucial as this significantly decreases antibody performance . Rather than repeatedly thawing the stock solution, prepare small aliquots upon initial receipt. For the 20μl size preparations that contain 0.1% BSA, aliquoting is not necessary for -20°C storage . When designing experimental timelines, factor in possible performance variations when using antibodies approaching their one-year stability threshold.
ATP6V1E2 antibodies have been successfully validated across multiple experimental applications, each requiring specific optimization:
| Application | Recommended Dilution | Validated Sample Types | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Blot | 1:500-1:2000 | Mouse brain tissue, MCF-7 cells | Observed MW: 31-33 kDa |
| Immunoprecipitation | 0.5-4.0 μg per 1-3 mg lysate | Mouse brain tissue | Requires optimization by sample type |
| ELISA | Varies by manufacturer | Human, mouse, rat samples | Typically 1:1000-1:5000 |
| Immunofluorescence | Varies by antibody clone | Human cells | Not all clones validated |
For Western blotting, start with a 1:500 dilution and adjust based on signal intensity . For immunoprecipitation, the antibody amount should be scaled proportionally to total protein concentration, beginning with 0.5 μg antibody per mg of lysate for initial optimization . Each experimental system requires independent titration to achieve optimal signal-to-noise ratios, particularly when working with different tissue or cell types than those listed in validation data .
For efficient ATP6V1E2 detection, extraction protocols should account for the protein's membrane association and subcellular localization. For neural tissues (where ATP6V1E2 has been well validated), use extraction buffers containing mild detergents (0.5-1% Triton X-100 or NP-40) supplemented with protease inhibitors . For cultured cells such as MCF-7, a RIPA buffer system provides effective extraction while maintaining protein integrity .
Sample preparation should include:
Tissue homogenization in cold buffer (4°C) using mechanical disruption
Incubation with extraction buffer for 30 minutes on ice with periodic vortexing
Centrifugation at 12,000×g for 15 minutes at 4°C
Collection of supernatant and protein quantification
Sample denaturation at 95°C for 5 minutes in reducing SDS-PAGE loading buffer
For immunoprecipitation applications, gentler lysis conditions may better preserve protein-protein interactions that could be biologically relevant to ATP6V1E2 function. When analyzing tissues not previously validated (beyond brain tissue and MCF-7 cells), preliminary experiments comparing different extraction methods are advisable to establish optimal detection conditions .
A comprehensive control strategy for ATP6V1E2 antibody experiments should include:
Positive Controls: Include mouse brain tissue lysate or MCF-7 cell lysate as validated positive controls that consistently show 31-33 kDa bands .
Negative Controls:
Primary antibody omission (for non-specific secondary antibody binding)
Isotype control (rabbit IgG at equivalent concentration)
Non-expressing or low-expressing tissue/cell types
Specificity Controls:
Pre-absorption with immunizing peptide (if available)
siRNA knockdown of ATP6V1E2 in appropriate cell lines
Comparison with a second antibody targeting a different epitope of ATP6V1E2
Loading Controls: Include housekeeping proteins appropriate to the subcellular fraction being analyzed (e.g., GAPDH for cytosolic fractions, Na+/K+ ATPase for membrane fractions)
The control design should account for the antibody's polyclonal nature (all validated options are rabbit polyclonal) by verifying batch-to-batch consistency when continuing long-term research projects .
Cross-reactivity with related V-ATPase subunits: ATP6V1E2 shares structural similarities with ATP6V1E1. To mitigate this, use antibodies raised against unique regions (e.g., those targeting amino acids 90-180) and validate with knockout/knockdown controls .
Non-specific binding in high-background tissues: Certain tissues naturally produce higher background. Optimize by:
Increasing blocking duration (3-5% BSA or milk for 1-2 hours)
Adding 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 to blocking buffer
Using tissue-specific dilution optimization
Extending wash steps (5 × 5 minutes)
Epitope masking by fixation: Different fixation methods may mask the target epitope. Compare results between fresh-frozen and formalin-fixed samples when establishing protocols .
Insufficient protein extraction: ATP6V1E2 may require specialized extraction due to membrane association. Test multiple extraction buffers when working with new tissue types .
Inappropriate antibody dilution: The recommended ranges (1:500-1:2000) may need adjustment based on specific experimental conditions. Perform dilution series tests when adapting to new experimental systems .
To systematically address both false positive and negative results, implement a multi-antibody approach using antibodies targeting different epitopes of ATP6V1E2 (e.g., comparing antibodies raised against AA 1-226 versus AA 71-120) .
The discrepancy between the calculated molecular weight (26 kDa based on 226 amino acids) and the observed molecular weight (31-33 kDa) is a significant consideration when interpreting Western blot results . This difference of approximately 5-7 kDa likely results from:
Post-translational modifications: Phosphorylation sites on ATP6V1E2 can add measurable mass and affect protein migration.
Glycosylation patterns: Variable glycosylation can significantly impact apparent molecular weight.
Tissue-specific processing: Different tissues may process ATP6V1E2 differently, resulting in tissue-specific migration patterns.
Technical factors: SDS-PAGE conditions (gel percentage, buffer systems) can influence migration patterns.
When interpreting results showing bands outside the expected 31-33 kDa range, consider:
Performing phosphatase treatment of samples to identify phosphorylation contributions
Using gradient gels to better resolve the protein of interest
Confirming identity through mass spectrometry when possible
Comparing migration patterns across multiple tissue/cell types
The observed molecular weight should be consistent with the 31-33 kDa range in validated systems (mouse brain tissue, MCF-7 cells); significant deviations may indicate alternative isoforms, degradation products, or non-specific binding .
Differential performance across applications is a common challenge with ATP6V1E2 antibodies, as epitope accessibility varies by technique. To address this systematically:
Epitope-dependent considerations:
For Western blotting: Denaturing conditions expose linear epitopes, so antibodies recognizing linear sequences (such as those against AA 90-180) typically perform well .
For immunoprecipitation: Antibodies must recognize native conformations, requiring those that bind surface-exposed epitopes .
For immunofluorescence: Fixation method dramatically affects epitope preservation and accessibility.
Application-specific optimization:
Strategic approaches when application differences persist:
Use different antibody clones optimized for specific applications
Consider alternative detection methods (proximity ligation assay)
Implement complementary approaches (mass spectrometry after IP)
Validate findings using orthogonal techniques (qPCR correlation with protein levels)
When planning multi-application experiments, anticipate different optimal conditions for each technique and validate each application independently before combining in comprehensive studies .
For investigating ATP6V1E2's interactions within V-ATPase complexes, researchers should implement a multi-technique approach:
Co-immunoprecipitation strategies:
Use gentler lysis conditions (150-200 mM NaCl, 0.5% NP-40) to preserve protein-protein interactions
Perform bidirectional co-IP (using ATP6V1E2 antibody to pull down complexes, then probe for interacting partners; also use antibodies against suspected interacting partners to pull down and probe for ATP6V1E2)
Scale antibody amounts to 2-4 μg per reaction when investigating weak or transient interactions
Proximity-based approaches:
Consider BioID or APEX2 proximity labeling using ATP6V1E2 as the bait protein
Validate interactions identified through proximity labeling using co-IP with ATP6V1E2 antibodies
Analytical considerations:
Distinguish between direct and indirect interactions through staged IP protocols
Map interaction domains using truncated constructs and domain-specific antibodies
Compare interaction profiles across different cellular contexts (e.g., different tissues, pH conditions, or ATP availability)
For optimal results, validate interactions under physiologically relevant conditions that preserve V-ATPase complex integrity. Compare findings in mouse brain tissue (where ATP6V1E2 has been well-validated) to establish baseline interaction networks before extending to other experimental systems .
Studying ATP6V1E2 subcellular localization presents unique challenges due to its dynamic distribution in various membrane compartments. Researchers should consider:
Fixation method optimization:
Compare paraformaldehyde (preserves structure) with methanol (better epitope accessibility) fixation
Optimize permeabilization conditions (0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 or 0.05-0.1% saponin)
Consider light fixation followed by detergent extraction for membrane-associated proteins
Co-localization strategy:
Pair ATP6V1E2 antibody with markers for:
Lysosomes (LAMP1, LAMP2)
Early endosomes (EEA1)
Golgi apparatus (GM130)
Plasma membrane (Na+/K+ ATPase)
Quantify co-localization using appropriate statistical methods (Pearson's coefficient, Manders' overlap)
Dynamic trafficking studies:
Combine antibody labeling with live-cell compatible approaches
Consider pulse-chase experiments with surface biotinylation
Implement pH-sensitive probes to correlate ATP6V1E2 localization with functional acidification
Technical refinements:
Use super-resolution microscopy (STED, STORM) to resolve small membrane compartments
Implement subcellular fractionation followed by Western blotting as a complementary approach
Compare results between endogenous labeling (antibody) and tagged constructs
When designing visualization experiments, account for the antibody's specificity profile and validate subcellular localization patterns using multiple fixation and permeabilization protocols to ensure comprehensive characterization .
ATP6V1E2 antibodies provide valuable tools for investigating V-ATPase dysregulation in pathological conditions. For disease model studies:
Quantitative expression analysis:
Implement carefully controlled Western blot protocols with recombinant protein standards for absolute quantification
Use quantitative immunohistochemistry with digital image analysis for spatial distribution
Compare ATP6V1E2 expression with other V-ATPase subunits to identify subunit-specific dysregulation
Disease-specific considerations:
Neurodegenerative disorders: Focus on ATP6V1E2 expression in brain tissues where positive detection has been validated
Cancer models: Compare ATP6V1E2 levels in MCF-7 cells (positive control) with other cancer cell lines
Metabolic disorders: Examine expression in relation to metabolic stress conditions
Functional correlation approaches:
Pair ATP6V1E2 antibody detection with functional V-ATPase activity assays
Correlate ATP6V1E2 levels with compartmental pH measurements
Analyze post-translational modifications using phospho-specific antibodies when available
Therapeutic targeting assessment:
Use ATP6V1E2 antibodies to monitor protein levels following V-ATPase-targeted interventions
Implement antibody-based proximity assays to detect conformational changes in response to small molecule modulators
Develop cell-based screening approaches using ATP6V1E2 antibodies as readouts
For translation-focused research, validate findings across multiple model systems and correlate with human patient samples when possible to establish clinical relevance of observed ATP6V1E2 alterations .
Recent methodological innovations offer expanded research applications for ATP6V1E2 antibodies:
Multiplexed detection systems:
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) using metal-conjugated ATP6V1E2 antibodies for single-cell analysis
Multiplexed ion beam imaging (MIBI) for high-parameter tissue analysis
Sequential fluorescence detection using antibody stripping and reprobing
In situ proximity assays:
Proximity ligation assay (PLA) to visualize ATP6V1E2 interactions with other V-ATPase subunits
Enzyme complementation assays to study dynamic protein associations
FRET-based approaches using labeled primary antibodies
Intrabody applications:
Developing intracellularly expressed antibody fragments based on validated ATP6V1E2 antibody sequences
Creating nanobody alternatives with improved penetration characteristics
Engineering conformation-specific intrabodies to detect structural states
Tissue clearing compatibility:
Validating ATP6V1E2 antibodies in CLARITY, iDISCO, or CUBIC cleared tissue preparations
Establishing whole-organ ATP6V1E2 distribution maps using light-sheet microscopy
These approaches extend beyond traditional immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation to provide spatial, temporal, and interaction data previously inaccessible with conventional antibody applications. When implementing these advanced methods, researchers should include appropriate controls adapted to each specific technology platform .
When extending ATP6V1E2 research to non-validated models or rare tissues, implement a systematic validation approach:
Hierarchical validation strategy:
Begin with in silico analysis: Confirm target sequence homology across species
Perform epitope mapping: Identify if the immunizing sequence (e.g., AA 90-180 or 1-226) is conserved in the model organism
Establish baseline expression: Use quantitative PCR to confirm ATP6V1E2 transcript presence before protein analysis
Cross-validation methodology:
Tissue-specific optimization:
Develop tissue-specific protein extraction protocols
Optimize fixation parameters for immunohistochemistry applications
Establish appropriate positive controls specific to the tissue type
Documentation standards:
Record batch-specific validation data
Document all optimization steps systematically
Share validation protocols through repositories or supplementary materials
For extremely rare tissues or specialized research models, consider preparing customized validation standards by expressing recombinant ATP6V1E2 matching the species of interest, then using this as a defined positive control for antibody performance assessment .
Longitudinal studies face unique challenges regarding antibody consistency. To ensure reliable ATP6V1E2 detection across extended research timelines:
Antibody management strategy:
Purchase sufficient antibody from a single lot for the entire study duration
Create standardized aliquots with consistent antibody concentration
Store reference aliquots unopened until needed for validation
Document lot numbers and maintain certificate of analysis information
Performance monitoring protocol:
Implement regular validation checkpoints using consistent positive controls
Develop quantitative metrics for antibody performance (signal-to-noise ratio)
Establish acceptance criteria before study initiation
Create a decision tree for troubleshooting if performance declines
Technical standardization:
Standardize all experimental conditions (buffers, incubation times, temperatures)
Prepare master mixes of recurring reagents when possible
Implement automated protocols where feasible to reduce variability
Include internal reference standards in each experiment
Contingency planning:
Identify alternative ATP6V1E2 antibodies validated for the same applications
Maintain protocols for comparing performance between primary and backup antibodies
Consider developing custom antibodies for critical research programs