The Y177 residue in BCR-ABL is a critical docking site for Grb2, activating downstream pathways like PI3K/AKT. Research highlights its role in:
CML Progenitor Expansion: Phosphorylation of Y177 drives AKT-mediated phosphorylation of p27kip1 at Thr-157, leading to cytoplasmic sequestration of p27kip1 and enhanced cell cycle progression in CML CD34+ cells .
Leukemogenesis: BCR-ABL Y177 signaling increases p27 protein translation while reducing nuclear p27 levels, enabling uncontrolled proliferation of malignant myeloid progenitors .
Therapeutic Implications: Mutating Y177 (Y177F) restores nuclear p27 localization and inhibits CDK activity, suppressing CML progenitor growth .
Mechanistic Insights: The antibody detects phosphorylated Bcr and Bcr-Abl, enabling studies on Y177-dependent AKT activation and p27 mislocalization in primary CML cells .
Functional Validation: In BCR-ABL-transduced CD34+ cells, Y177 phosphorylation correlates with increased pRB phosphorylation (S780/S807) and S-phase entry, reversed by Y177F mutation .
Cell Line Validation: Works in HeLa cells (WB) and mouse brain tissues (IF), with Boster Bio offering validation incentives for novel applications like IHC-frozen .
Phospho-Specificity: Cell Signaling Technology’s #3901 antibody (phospho-Bcr Tyr177) confirms endogenous reactivity in human/mouse samples, detecting 160 kDa (Bcr) and 210 kDa (Bcr-Abl) bands .
Diagnostic Use: Not approved for clinical diagnostics; restricted to research .
Species Reactivity: Limited to human and mouse; untested in other models unless under custom validation programs .
Epitope Specificity: Targets the peptide sequence around residues 175–179 (P-F-Y-V-N). Users must verify cross-reactivity with specific BCR isoforms .
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody is a rabbit polyclonal antibody developed against a synthetic peptide sequence around amino acids 175-179 (P-F-Y-V-N) derived from human BCR protein . The antibody specifically detects endogenous levels of total BCR protein through recognition of this epitope region . It was generated by immunizing rabbits with this synthetic peptide conjugated to KLH (Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin) as a carrier protein . The antibody has been purified using affinity chromatography with the epitope-specific peptide to ensure high specificity . This antibody recognizes the BCR protein, which is also known by alternative names including BCR1, breakpoint cluster region protein, D22S11, and renal carcinoma antigen NY-REN-26 .
The BCR (Ab-177) Antibody has been validated for multiple research applications. Primary validated applications include Western Blot (WB) and Immunofluorescence (IF) as indicated by multiple suppliers . According to some sources, the antibody is also suitable for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) applications . Western blot validation has been specifically performed using extracts from HL60 and K562 cell lines, demonstrating the antibody's ability to detect the target protein under denaturing conditions . For optimal results in Western blotting, researchers should use standard protocols with protein transfer to PVDF or nitrocellulose membranes, followed by blocking with 5% non-fat milk or BSA, and antibody incubation at appropriate dilutions determined through titration experiments.
For optimal performance and longevity, BCR (Ab-177) Antibody requires specific storage and handling conditions. The antibody is supplied at a concentration of 1.0 mg/mL in phosphate buffered saline (without Mg²⁺ and Ca²⁺), pH 7.4, containing 150 mM NaCl, 0.02% sodium azide, and 50% glycerol . For long-term preservation, storage at -20°C is recommended . For short-term use (within 1-2 weeks), the antibody may be stored at 4°C . Repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided as they can lead to denaturation and loss of antibody activity. When handling the antibody, it's advisable to aliquot the stock solution into smaller volumes upon first thaw to minimize freeze-thaw cycles. Always centrifuge the antibody vial briefly before opening to ensure all content is at the bottom of the tube, and use sterile techniques when handling to prevent contamination.
When designing experiments with BCR (Ab-177) Antibody, appropriate controls are essential for result validation and troubleshooting. Primary controls should include a positive control consisting of cell lines known to express BCR protein, such as K562 cells, which have been used in the antibody validation . A negative control using cell lines with low or no BCR expression helps establish specificity. Additionally, technical controls should include a secondary antibody-only control to assess non-specific binding, and a loading control antibody (e.g., against GAPDH, β-actin, or tubulin) to normalize protein loading in Western blots. For advanced validation, researchers should consider using BCR knockout or knockdown samples as negative controls, or samples with overexpressed BCR as positive controls. For immunofluorescence applications, include a peptide competition assay where the antibody is pre-incubated with the immunizing peptide to demonstrate binding specificity.
For optimal detection of BCR-ABL fusion proteins:
Use gradient gels (4-15%) to effectively separate high molecular weight proteins
Extend transfer time for large fusion proteins (>200 kDa)
Compare results with ABL-specific antibodies to confirm fusion protein identity
Consider using positive controls such as K562 cell lysates for p210 BCR-ABL
When studying BCR-ABL signaling pathways, this antibody can be paired with phospho-specific antibodies targeting downstream effectors like STAT5, Akt, or ERK to evaluate signaling cascade activation.
Sample preparation significantly impacts BCR (Ab-177) Antibody performance across different applications. For Western blot applications, optimal results require careful consideration of lysis buffers and protein extraction methods:
Lysis buffer composition: 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 inhibitor cocktail for general protein extraction. For phosphorylation studies, add phosphatase inhibitors (e.g., sodium orthovanadate, sodium fluoride).
Cell/tissue processing: For adherent cells, direct lysis in the culture plate after PBS washing is recommended. For suspension cells and tissues, pellet samples before adding lysis buffer. Tissue samples should be homogenized thoroughly using mechanical disruption.
Protein denaturation: Heat samples at 95°C for 5 minutes in Laemmli buffer containing SDS and β-mercaptoethanol or DTT to fully denature proteins and expose epitopes.
Fixation for immunofluorescence: Use 4% paraformaldehyde for 15 minutes at room temperature, followed by permeabilization with 0.1-0.5% Triton X-100 for intracellular epitope access.
Antigen retrieval: For formalin-fixed samples, heat-induced epitope retrieval using citrate buffer (pH 6.0) or EDTA buffer (pH 8.0) may improve antibody binding.
Optimization may be necessary for each experimental system, with particular attention to detergent concentration to balance protein extraction efficiency with epitope preservation.
When encountering inconsistent results with BCR (Ab-177) Antibody, systematic troubleshooting approaches can help identify and resolve issues:
For weak or absent signals:
Increase antibody concentration by adjusting dilution (test range from 1:500 to 1:2000)
Extend primary antibody incubation time (overnight at 4°C)
Optimize protein loading (increase to 30-50 μg total protein)
Verify protein transfer efficiency using reversible protein stains (Ponceau S)
Check sample quality by probing for abundant housekeeping proteins
Try more sensitive detection systems (enhanced chemiluminescence or fluorescent secondary antibodies)
For high background:
Increase blocking stringency (5% BSA or milk, longer blocking time)
Add 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 to washing buffers
Reduce primary antibody concentration
Filter blocking solutions to remove particulates
Pre-adsorb secondary antibody with sample species proteins
For multiple bands or non-specific binding:
Increase washing stringency (more washes, higher salt concentration in wash buffer)
Confirm sample preparation maintains protein integrity (add protease inhibitors)
Perform peptide competition assay to identify specific bands
Compare band patterns with literature and alternative BCR antibodies
For batch-to-batch variability:
Standardize protocols with detailed documentation
Maintain consistent positive controls across experiments
Consider antibody validation with orthogonal methods (mass spectrometry)
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody offers distinct advantages and limitations compared to other commercially available BCR antibodies. This antibody targets amino acids 175-179 in the N-terminal region of BCR , while other antibodies may target different epitopes such as the C-terminus or internal domains.
Comparative advantages:
The epitope location (aa 175-179) is preserved in BCR-ABL fusion proteins, making it suitable for CML research
Demonstrates cross-reactivity with multiple species (human, mouse, rat)
Validated for both Western blot and immunofluorescence applications
Targets a linear epitope, potentially maintaining reactivity in denaturing conditions
Limitations compared to alternatives:
As a polyclonal antibody, may show more batch-to-batch variation than monoclonal alternatives
May detect both normal BCR and fusion proteins, requiring careful band size discrimination
Not specifically validated for immunoprecipitation, ChIP, or flow cytometry applications
When selecting between BCR antibodies, researchers should consider:
The specific domain of interest (N-terminal versus C-terminal)
Required applications (some antibodies are optimized for specific techniques)
Need for fusion protein detection versus wild-type BCR discrimination
Monoclonal versus polyclonal characteristics based on experimental requirements
Validation experiments comparing multiple antibodies in parallel on the same samples can help identify the optimal reagent for specific research questions.
While BCR (Ab-177) Antibody is primarily validated for Western blot and immunofluorescence , researchers may adapt it for flow cytometry or chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) with appropriate optimization and validation.
For flow cytometry adaptation:
Fixation and permeabilization optimization:
Test multiple fixation methods (2-4% paraformaldehyde, methanol, or commercial kits)
Compare permeabilization reagents (saponin, Triton X-100, commercial buffers)
Optimize incubation times for each step
Antibody titration:
Test concentration range (1-10 μg/ml) to determine optimal signal-to-noise ratio
Compare with known working antibodies against intracellular targets
Controls:
Include isotype control (rabbit IgG) at matching concentration
Use positive control cell lines with known BCR expression
Include cells with BCR knockdown as negative controls
For ChIP adaptation:
Crosslinking optimization:
Test formaldehyde concentrations (0.5-1.5%) and incubation times (5-15 minutes)
Consider dual crosslinking approaches for protein-protein interactions
Chromatin shearing:
Optimize sonication conditions to produce 200-500 bp fragments
Verify shearing efficiency by agarose gel electrophoresis
Antibody binding conditions:
Test various antibody amounts (2-10 μg per ChIP reaction)
Optimize binding temperature and time (4°C overnight versus room temperature)
Include appropriate positive controls (antibodies against histone marks)
For both applications, preliminary experiments with small-scale optimization should precede full-scale studies, and results should be validated using orthogonal approaches to confirm specificity.
Determining optimal dilutions for BCR (Ab-177) Antibody is critical for experimental success across different applications. Based on the antibody's concentration (1 mg/ml) , the following dilution ranges are recommended as starting points:
Western Blot:
Primary dilution range: 1:500 to 1:2000 (0.5-2 μg/ml)
Incubation conditions: Overnight at 4°C or 2 hours at room temperature
Blocking agent: 5% non-fat milk or BSA in TBST
Immunofluorescence:
Primary dilution range: 1:100 to 1:500 (2-10 μg/ml)
Incubation conditions: 1-2 hours at room temperature or overnight at 4°C
Blocking agent: 1-3% BSA or normal serum in PBS
ELISA:
Coating concentration: 1-5 μg/ml
Detection dilution: 1:1000 to 1:5000
Blocking agent: 1-3% BSA in PBS
Optimal dilutions should be determined empirically for each experimental system and may depend on:
Target protein expression level in the sample
Sample type (cell line, primary tissue, frozen vs. fixed)
Detection method sensitivity (enhanced chemiluminescence, fluorescent, colorimetric)
Incubation time and temperature
Performing an antibody titration experiment with a dilution series on well-characterized positive control samples is recommended to determine the optimal concentration that provides maximum specific signal with minimal background.
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody can be effectively incorporated into multiplex immunofluorescence studies with careful planning and optimization. This approach allows simultaneous visualization of BCR with other proteins of interest in the same sample.
Protocol considerations for multiplex studies:
Antibody compatibility assessment:
Ensure primary antibodies are raised in different host species (e.g., pair rabbit anti-BCR with mouse, goat, or rat antibodies against other targets)
If multiple rabbit antibodies must be used, consider sequential staining with complete elution between rounds or use directly conjugated primary antibodies
Fluorophore selection:
Choose fluorophores with minimal spectral overlap (e.g., FITC/Alexa 488, TRITC/Alexa 555, Cy5/Alexa 647)
Account for tissue autofluorescence when selecting fluorophores (longer wavelength fluorophores may provide better signal-to-noise in certain tissues)
Staining protocol optimization:
Test antibodies individually before combining in multiplex format
Determine optimal concentration for each antibody separately
Validate staining pattern matches expected subcellular localization
Controls for multiplex studies:
Single-color controls to establish spectral parameters
Minus-one controls (omitting one primary antibody while including all others)
Isotype controls for each species of primary antibody
Data acquisition and analysis:
Use confocal microscopy for optimal spatial resolution
Employ spectral unmixing for fluorophores with partial overlap
Consider automated image analysis for quantification
This approach allows researchers to investigate co-localization between BCR and interaction partners or to simultaneously examine multiple components of BCR-related signaling pathways.
Epitope masking can occur when the target region of BCR (amino acids 175-179) is obscured by protein interactions, post-translational modifications, or conformational changes. Several approaches can help address this challenge:
1. Sample preparation modifications:
Test multiple lysis buffers with different detergent compositions (RIPA, NP-40, Triton X-100)
Include protein-protein interaction disruptors like high salt (300-500 mM NaCl)
Try chaotropic agents like urea (1-2 M) to partially unfold proteins while maintaining antibody reactivity
2. Antigen retrieval methods:
Heat-induced epitope retrieval using citrate buffer (pH 6.0) or Tris-EDTA (pH 9.0)
Enzymatic retrieval with proteases like proteinase K (carefully titrated)
Microwave, pressure cooker, or water bath heating methods with optimized times
3. Denaturation approaches:
SDS treatment (0.1-0.5%) to disrupt protein-protein interactions
Reducing agents (DTT, β-mercaptoethanol) to break disulfide bonds
Acidic or basic pH treatments to alter protein conformation
4. Alternative fixation methods:
Compare crosslinking fixatives (formaldehyde) with precipitating fixatives (methanol, acetone)
Test fixation time and temperature to balance epitope preservation with structural integrity
Consider dual fixation protocols (brief formaldehyde followed by methanol)
5. Blocking optimization:
Test different blocking agents (BSA, normal serum, commercial blockers)
Optimize blocking time and temperature to reduce non-specific binding without affecting epitope access
These approaches should be systematically tested and compared to standard protocols to determine which modifications improve BCR detection with the Ab-177 antibody.
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody can be adapted for studying protein interactions involving the BCR protein through several methodological approaches:
1. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP):
While not specifically validated for immunoprecipitation in the provided specifications, researchers may optimize this antibody for Co-IP by:
Testing different lysis buffers with mild detergents (NP-40, Digitonin) to preserve protein-protein interactions
Using protein A/G magnetic beads for antibody capture
Employing crosslinking strategies (DSP, formaldehyde) to stabilize transient interactions
Comparing direct IP (antibody pre-bound to beads) versus indirect IP (antibody added to lysate first)
2. Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA):
This technique can detect protein interactions within 40 nm distance in fixed cells:
Pair BCR (Ab-177) Antibody with antibodies against suspected interaction partners
Utilize species-specific PLA probes corresponding to the host species of primary antibodies
Quantify interaction signals as fluorescent dots using confocal microscopy
Compare signal frequency between experimental and control conditions
3. Immunofluorescence co-localization:
Perform dual immunofluorescence with BCR (Ab-177) Antibody and antibodies against potential interaction partners
Analyze co-localization using confocal microscopy
Quantify overlap using Pearson's or Mander's correlation coefficients
Confirm specificity with appropriate controls and statistical analysis
4. Biochemical fractionation:
Separate cellular components (membrane, cytosol, nucleus) using differential centrifugation
Probe fractions with BCR (Ab-177) Antibody to determine subcellular localization
Compare distribution patterns with known interaction partners
These approaches provide complementary information about BCR protein interactions and should be used in combination for comprehensive characterization of the BCR interactome.
BCR-ABL fusion proteins: In samples from CML patients or cell lines like K562, the antibody will also detect BCR-ABL fusion proteins, which appear at higher molecular weights:
p210 BCR-ABL: ~210 kDa (most common in CML)
p190 BCR-ABL: ~190 kDa (more common in Ph+ ALL)
p230 BCR-ABL: ~230 kDa (rare variant)
Post-translational modifications: The apparent molecular weight may vary due to phosphorylation, ubiquitination, or other modifications. BCR is known to be phosphorylated at multiple sites, which may cause slight mobility shifts.
Protein degradation: Proteolytic processing during sample preparation can result in lower molecular weight fragments. Fresh preparation of samples with protease inhibitors is recommended.
Gel percentage considerations: For optimal resolution of BCR protein:
Use 8-10% acrylamide gels for wild-type BCR
Consider 6-8% gels or gradient gels (4-15%) for larger BCR-ABL fusion proteins
Molecular weight markers: Always run appropriate molecular weight markers (preferably pre-stained) to accurately identify target bands.
The antibody has been validated using K562 cells, which express the p210 BCR-ABL fusion protein, confirming its utility in detecting both native BCR and BCR-ABL fusion proteins .
As a rabbit polyclonal antibody, BCR (Ab-177) Antibody requires anti-rabbit secondary antibodies for detection in various applications. The selection of appropriate secondary antibodies depends on the specific application and detection method:
For Western Blot:
Horseradish Peroxidase (HRP) conjugates:
Fluorescent conjugates:
IRDye 680RD or 800CW Goat anti-Rabbit for infrared imaging systems
Alexa Fluor 488, 555, or 647 conjugates for fluorescent imaging
Typically used at 1:10,000 to 1:15,000 dilution
For Immunofluorescence:
Fluorophore-conjugated antibodies:
For ELISA:
Enzyme conjugates:
For specialized applications:
Biotin conjugates:
When selecting secondary antibodies, consider factors such as species cross-reactivity (choose those with minimal cross-reactivity to other species in your sample), sensitivity requirements, detection method compatibility, and background concerns. Pre-adsorbed secondary antibodies are recommended for applications with potential cross-reactivity issues.
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody serves as a valuable tool in leukemia research, particularly in studies focused on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph+ ALL). The antibody's ability to detect both wild-type BCR and BCR-ABL fusion proteins makes it particularly relevant for these studies .
Key research applications in leukemia:
Fusion protein characterization:
Detection of BCR-ABL fusion proteins in patient samples and cell lines
Monitoring expression levels of BCR-ABL in response to tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy
Distinguishing between different BCR-ABL isoforms (p190, p210, p230) by molecular weight
Signaling pathway analysis:
Therapeutic response monitoring:
Assessment of BCR-ABL protein levels in response to targeted therapies
Investigation of resistance mechanisms to tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Correlation of protein expression with clinical outcomes
Subcellular localization studies:
Examination of BCR and BCR-ABL localization patterns using immunofluorescence
Analysis of protein redistribution in response to therapeutic agents
Colocalization studies with signaling partners
The antibody has been validated in K562 cells, a CML cell line expressing the p210 BCR-ABL fusion protein , making it particularly valuable for CML research models. When designing leukemia research studies using this antibody, researchers should incorporate appropriate controls, including both BCR-ABL positive cells (K562) and BCR-ABL negative cells (HL60) for comparison .
Understanding the dual role of BCR protein in normal cellular function versus disease states provides important context for research using BCR (Ab-177) Antibody. This antibody can help elucidate these functions through detection of endogenous BCR protein levels .
Normal BCR Functions:
Signaling regulation:
BCR contains multiple functional domains including serine/threonine kinase activity
Participates in signal transduction pathways affecting cell proliferation and differentiation
Contains a Dbl homology (DH) domain that functions as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rho family GTPases
Regulates cytoskeletal organization and cellular morphology
Hematopoietic development:
Expressed in multiple hematopoietic lineages
Contributes to normal hematopoietic stem cell functions
May play a role in immune cell signaling pathways
Pathological Roles in Disease:
Leukemia development:
Translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22 creates the Philadelphia chromosome
Fusion with ABL1 creates constitutively active tyrosine kinase activity
BCR-ABL fusion protein activates multiple signaling pathways including Ras, leading to uncontrolled proliferation
The Y177 residue in BCR plays an essential role in Ras activation and human hematopoietic progenitor transformation in CML
Signaling dysregulation:
Abnormal activation of STAT, PI3K/AKT, and MAPK pathways in leukemia
Resistance to apoptosis and enhanced survival of leukemic cells
Disruption of normal cellular adhesion properties
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody can be employed to investigate these dual roles through:
Comparative analysis of BCR levels in normal versus leukemic cells
Assessment of BCR interactions with signaling partners in different cellular contexts
Examination of subcellular localization changes in disease states
Correlation of BCR expression patterns with clinical parameters in patient samples
This knowledge provides critical context for interpreting experimental results using the BCR (Ab-177) Antibody in both basic research and translational studies.
BCR (Ab-177) Antibody has potential applications beyond current established uses in several emerging research areas. As researchers continue to explore the complexity of BCR signaling and its role in both normal and pathological states, this antibody could prove valuable in:
Single-cell analysis techniques:
Integration with mass cytometry (CyTOF) for high-dimensional protein expression profiling
Application in imaging mass cytometry for spatial analysis of BCR expression in tissue microenvironments
Combination with single-cell RNA sequencing for multi-omics approaches correlating protein and transcript levels
Liquid biopsy development:
Detection of BCR-ABL proteins in circulating tumor cells or exosomes
Monitoring therapy response through minimally invasive sampling
Correlation of protein biomarkers with circulating tumor DNA
Novel therapeutic approaches:
Screening for compounds that modulate BCR protein interaction with binding partners
Evaluation of protein degradation therapeutics (PROTACs) targeting BCR-ABL fusion proteins
Assessment of combination strategies targeting multiple nodes in BCR-ABL signaling networks
Precision medicine applications:
Stratification of patient samples based on BCR-ABL protein variant expression
Correlation of protein expression patterns with treatment outcomes
Identification of resistance mechanisms at the protein level
Developmental biology:
Investigation of BCR's role in normal hematopoietic development
Analysis of BCR expression during differentiation of stem cells
Comparative studies across model organisms using the antibody's cross-species reactivity
These emerging applications will require careful validation and optimization of the antibody for each specific context, but the availability of a well-characterized reagent like BCR (Ab-177) Antibody provides a solid foundation for these innovative research directions.
The field of antibody technology continues to evolve, offering potential improvements for BCR protein detection beyond current capabilities of the BCR (Ab-177) Antibody. Future advances that could enhance BCR protein studies include:
Recombinant antibody formats:
Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) or antigen-binding fragments (Fabs) derived from the BCR (Ab-177) sequence
Bispecific antibodies targeting BCR and interaction partners simultaneously
Heavy-chain only nanobodies with improved tissue penetration for imaging applications
Direct conjugation technologies:
Site-specific conjugation of fluorophores, enzymes, or nanoparticles to primary antibodies
Click chemistry approaches for modular antibody functionalization
Photocrosslinkable antibodies for proximity labeling of BCR-interacting proteins
Enhanced sensitivity methods:
Signal amplification technologies like tyramide signal amplification or rolling circle amplification
Quantum dot conjugates for improved fluorescence sensitivity and stability
Plasmonic nanoparticle conjugates for colorimetric assays with enhanced sensitivity
Multiplexing capabilities:
DNA-barcoded antibodies for high-plex imaging or sequencing readout
Mass-tag conjugates for highly multiplexed mass spectrometry detection
Spectral unmixing approaches using novel fluorophores with minimal overlap
In vivo applications:
Humanized versions of BCR antibodies for potential therapeutic applications
Near-infrared fluorophore conjugates for in vivo imaging
Radio- or PET-labeled antibodies for non-invasive molecular imaging