BRCC3 functions as:
A core component of the BRCA1-A complex, regulating DNA damage response through K63-linked deubiquitination
A modulator of interferon signaling by stabilizing IFNAR1 through deubiquitination
A regulator of NLRP3 inflammasome activity and interleukin-1β maturation
Key enzymatic properties:
| Property | Impact on Cellular Processes |
|---|---|
| Deubiquitinating activity | Maintains genome stability |
| K63-specific cleavage | Influences DNA repair pathway choice |
| Protein interaction | Binds BRCA1, RAD51, and p53 |
The antibody has been instrumental in:
CRISPR/Cas9 validation: Confirming BRCC3 knockout in leukemia cell lines (Kasumi-1, SKNO-1) via Western blot
Subcellular localization studies: Identifying nuclear BRCC3 in TMZ-treated glioma cells
Therapeutic response assays: Correlating BRCC3 expression levels with alkylating drug sensitivity in gliomas
AML patients with BRCC3 mutations showed 100% event-free survival due to:
Glioma studies revealed BRCC3's dual role:
Validation: Essential for distinguishing wild-type vs. truncated isoforms in mutation studies
Assay compatibility: Used in IF (immunofluorescence), WB (Western blot), and IP (immunoprecipitation) to study:
Current research gaps include:
Lack of standardized commercial clones for consistent quantitation
Underexplored roles in non-cancer pathologies (e.g., autoimmune disorders)
Need for isoform-specific antibodies to study splice variants
BRCC3 (BRCA1/BRCA2-containing complex subunit 3, also known as BRCC36) is a Lysine 63-specific deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) belonging to the JAMM/MPN family of zinc metalloproteases. It plays critical roles in DNA damage repair, inflammasome activation, interferon signaling, and regulation of cell cycle progression. The significance of BRCC3 in research stems from its involvement in maintaining genomic stability and preventing the accumulation of genetic mutations that can lead to cancer development .
BRCC3 functions within two major macromolecular complexes:
The cytoplasmic BRCC36 isopeptidase complex (BRISC)
The nuclear Abraxas complex (ARISC)
These complexes have distinct cellular localizations and functions, making BRCC3 a multifunctional protein involved in various cellular processes .
BRCC3 antibodies are utilized in multiple research applications, with the most common being:
These applications enable researchers to study BRCC3 expression, localization, and interactions with other proteins in various experimental contexts .
Optimizing Western blot conditions for BRCC3 detection requires careful consideration of several parameters:
Sample preparation: BRCC3 has a calculated molecular weight of 36 kDa and is typically observed at approximately 35 kDa on Western blots . Ensure adequate protein extraction from your samples using appropriate lysis buffers containing protease inhibitors.
Antibody selection: Both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies are available. Polyclonal antibodies like the BRCC3 Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody (CAB7995) offer high specificity and sensitivity for human, mouse, and rat samples .
Dilution optimization: Start with the manufacturer's recommended dilution range (typically 1:500-1:6000 for WB) and perform a dilution series to determine optimal signal-to-noise ratio .
Positive controls: Use validated cell lines known to express BRCC3, such as HeLa or PC-3 cells, as positive controls .
Detection method: Standard ECL systems are generally sufficient for BRCC3 detection, though enhanced sensitivity systems may be beneficial for low expression scenarios.
Adequate blocking (typically with 5% non-fat milk or BSA) and thorough washing steps are critical for minimizing background and ensuring specific detection of BRCC3 protein .
BRCC3 subcellular localization exhibits dynamic changes in response to DNA damage, which is critical for its function in DNA repair pathways:
Basal conditions: Under normal conditions without DNA damage, BRCC3 is predominantly located in the cytoplasm, as demonstrated in glioblastoma cell lines (U87, U251, and A172) .
After DNA damage: Following exposure to DNA-damaging agents such as the alkylating agent temozolomide (TMZ), BRCC3 translocates to the nucleus. This translocation was observed in TMZ-resistant glioblastoma cell lines (U251 and A172) after 48 hours of treatment .
Temporal dynamics: The nuclear localization persists during the DNA repair process and gradually returns to cytoplasmic predominance after repair is completed.
This translocation phenomenon can be effectively studied using immunofluorescence microscopy with BRCC3 antibodies, which reveals the protein's movement from cytoplasmic localization (indicated by arrowheads in the studies) to nuclear localization (indicated by arrows) following DNA damage . This dynamic localization pattern correlates with BRCC3's dual role in both cytoplasmic processes (through the BRISC complex) and nuclear DNA repair mechanisms (through the ARISC complex).
BRCC3 expression varies significantly across cancer types, with distinct methodological approaches required to accurately characterize these differences:
Expression patterns across cancers:
Glioblastoma: Higher BRCC3 expression in grade IV glioblastoma compared to normal brain tissues and lower-grade (I-II) astrocytomas .
Bladder cancer: Functions as an oncogene with increased expression promoting tumorigenesis .
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): Mutations in BRCC3 are selectively found in approximately 4.7% of cases with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1) translocation but not in cases with inv(16)(p13.1q22) .
Breast cancer: Abnormal expression observed in several breast cancer cell lines and invasive ductal carcinomas .
Methodological approaches for characterization:
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Best for comparative analysis of BRCC3 expression in tissue specimens, using recommended dilutions of 1:50-1:500 . This approach allows for examination of expression patterns within the tumor microenvironment.
qPCR: Effective for quantifying relative mRNA expression levels across different cancer cell lines or patient samples.
Western blotting: Optimal for comparing protein expression levels, with recommended dilutions of 1:1000-1:6000 .
Next-generation sequencing: Essential for identifying mutations in the BRCC3 gene, particularly relevant for hematological malignancies.
Tissue microarray analysis: Enables high-throughput screening of BRCC3 expression across multiple cancer types and stages simultaneously.
The choice of methodology should be guided by the specific research question, with complementary approaches often providing the most comprehensive characterization of BRCC3 alterations in cancer .
BRCC3 antibodies are powerful tools for investigating chemotherapy resistance mechanisms, particularly in relation to DNA-damaging agents:
Monitoring expression changes after treatment:
BRCC3 expression is upregulated in response to alkylating agents like temozolomide (TMZ) and BCNU in resistant glioblastoma cell lines (U251 and A172), which can be detected via Western blotting with anti-BRCC3 antibodies .
This upregulation is less pronounced in TMZ-sensitive cell lines (e.g., U87), suggesting a relationship between BRCC3 expression and drug resistance .
Examining BRCC3-dependent DNA repair pathways:
Immunofluorescence using anti-BRCC3 antibodies can visualize BRCC3 translocation to the nucleus following DNA damage, which correlates with repair activity .
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) with BRCC3 antibodies can identify interactions with other DNA repair proteins (like BRCA1, BRCA2, RAD51, and FANCD2) that are upregulated in resistant cells .
γH2AX foci persistence assays:
Cell sensitivity testing after BRCC3 manipulation:
These approaches have revealed that BRCC3 contributes to chemotherapy resistance by enhancing DNA repair efficiency after alkylating agent-induced damage, making it a potential target for improving chemotherapeutic efficacy .
When investigating BRCC3 mutations in hematological malignancies, several methodological considerations are crucial for accurate and meaningful results:
Cohort selection and stratification:
BRCC3 mutations show specific associations with certain cytogenetic subtypes. For example, they were found in 4.7% of AML cases with t(8;21)(q22;q22.1) but were absent in cases with inv(16)(p13.1q22) .
Patient cohorts should be stratified by cytogenetic abnormalities to identify subtype-specific associations.
Mutation detection methods:
Targeted sequencing: Efficient for screening specific regions of BRCC3 in large patient cohorts.
Whole exome sequencing: Provides comprehensive coverage but requires more resources.
Validation: Sanger sequencing should be used to confirm identified mutations.
Functional characterization of mutations:
CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing: To recreate specific mutations in cell line models.
Deubiquitinating activity assays: To assess the impact of mutations on BRCC3's enzymatic function.
DNA damage response assays: Cells carrying BRCC3 mutations showed higher sensitivity to doxorubicin due to impaired DNA damage response .
Clinical correlation analyses:
| Characteristic | BRCC3 mut (n=9) | BRCC3 wt (n=182) | P-value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male | 6 (67%) | 102 (56%) | 0.5 |
| Additional cytogenetic alterations | 7 (78%) | 108 (59%) | 0.3 |
| −X/Y | 7 (78%) | 78 (43%) | 0.1 |
| One X Chr (male/female with -X) | 8 (88%) | 131 (72%) | 0.4 |
| del9q | 3 (33%) | 24 (13%) | 0.1 |
Integration of molecular and clinical data: Combining mutational analysis with clinical outcomes and response to therapy provides a comprehensive understanding of the significance of BRCC3 mutations .
These methodological considerations ensure robust analysis of BRCC3 mutations in hematological malignancies and facilitate the translation of findings into clinically relevant insights.
Designing experiments to investigate BRCC3's role in DNA repair pathways requires a comprehensive approach incorporating multiple complementary techniques:
Genetic manipulation strategies:
CRISPR/Cas9 gene knockout: For complete elimination of BRCC3 expression. The sgRNA sequence used successfully in published research is: sgRNA-F, 5′-caccGAAGTAATGGGGCTGTGCAT-3′; sgRNA-R, 5′-aaacATGCACAGCCCCATTACTTC-3′ .
Lentiviral shRNA knockdown: For partial reduction of BRCC3 expression to avoid potential lethality of complete knockout in some cell lines .
Overexpression systems: Both wild-type BRCC3 and deubiquitinating enzyme-null mutant BRCC3 (H122Q) should be used to distinguish between enzymatic and structural roles .
DNA damage induction methods:
DNA repair assessment assays:
Protein interaction studies:
Functional outcome measurements:
Subcellular localization tracking:
These experimental approaches should be integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of BRCC3's multifaceted roles in DNA repair pathways across different cellular contexts and damage types .
When employing BRCC3 antibodies in complex experimental systems, rigorous controls and validation steps are essential to ensure reliable and reproducible results:
Antibody validation controls:
Positive control tissues/cells: Use cell lines with confirmed BRCC3 expression such as HeLa or PC-3 cells .
Negative controls: Include BRCC3 knockout or knockdown samples generated via CRISPR/Cas9 or shRNA approaches .
Peptide competition assay: Pre-incubation of the antibody with the immunizing peptide should abolish specific signals.
Multiple antibody validation: Confirm key findings using at least two different antibodies targeting distinct epitopes of BRCC3.
Western blot validation:
Molecular weight confirmation: BRCC3 should be detected at approximately 35-36 kDa .
Loading controls: Include appropriate housekeeping proteins (β-actin, GAPDH) for normalization.
Recombinant protein standard: Include purified BRCC3 protein as a reference for size and specificity.
Titration series: Perform antibody dilution series (1:500 to 1:6000) to determine optimal concentration .
Immunohistochemistry/Immunofluorescence controls:
Antigen retrieval optimization: Test both citrate buffer (pH 6.0) and TE buffer (pH 9.0) for optimal epitope exposure .
Secondary antibody-only controls: To assess background from non-specific binding.
Tissue-specific controls: Include tissues known to express or lack BRCC3.
Co-localization controls: When studying subcellular localization, include markers for specific compartments (nuclear, cytoplasmic).
Functional validation approaches:
Rescue experiments: Reintroduction of BRCC3 in knockout/knockdown cells should restore the phenotype if antibody-detected changes are specific.
Correlation of protein detection with mRNA expression: Combine antibody-based protein detection with qPCR analysis of BRCC3 transcript levels.
Reproducibility across detection methods: Confirm key findings using multiple techniques (WB, IF, IHC, flow cytometry).
Experimental design considerations:
Biological replicates: Minimum of three independent experiments.
Technical replicates: Multiple measurements within each biological replicate.
Blinding: Especially important for quantitative analyses of immunostaining.
Randomization: For tissue or cell sample selection.
Reporting standards:
Detailed documentation of antibody source, catalog number, lot number, and dilutions used.
Complete description of all validation steps performed.
Disclosure of all image acquisition and processing parameters.
Adherence to these controls and validation steps ensures that findings related to BRCC3 expression, localization, or function are specific and reliable, facilitating meaningful interpretation and reproducibility of experimental results .
Detecting BRCC3 in clinical samples presents several technical challenges that require specific optimization strategies:
Low abundance detection issues:
Challenge: BRCC3 may be expressed at low levels in certain tissue types or pathological conditions.
Solution: Implement signal amplification systems such as tyramide signal amplification (TSA) for IHC/IF or use high-sensitivity ECL substrates for Western blotting. For Western blot, recommended dilutions of 1:500-1:2000 may need to be adjusted to the lower end of the range for low-abundance samples .
Tissue fixation and processing artifacts:
Challenge: Formalin fixation can mask epitopes and reduce antibody binding efficiency.
Solution: Optimize antigen retrieval methods; suggested protocols include using either TE buffer (pH 9.0) or citrate buffer (pH 6.0) . Extended retrieval times (20-30 minutes) may be necessary for heavily fixed samples.
Background and non-specific binding:
Challenge: Clinical samples often show higher background staining than cell lines.
Solution: Implement more stringent blocking protocols (e.g., combination of BSA, normal serum, and detergents); include additional washing steps; use antibody diluents containing background reducers.
Heterogeneous expression patterns:
Challenge: BRCC3 expression may vary across different cell types within the same tissue section.
Solution: Employ dual immunofluorescence staining with cell-type-specific markers to accurately identify BRCC3-expressing cells. Quantitative image analysis with cell-by-cell segmentation can help characterize heterogeneous expression.
Degradation in archival samples:
Challenge: Protein degradation in older FFPE blocks or improperly stored frozen samples.
Solution: Assess sample quality with control antibodies against stable proteins; use antibodies targeting multiple epitopes of BRCC3; consider alternative detection methods like RNAscope for mRNA detection if protein detection is compromised.
Cross-reactivity concerns:
Challenge: Potential cross-reactivity with related proteins, especially in tissues with inflammatory infiltrates.
Solution: Use highly specific antibodies with validated reactivity to human, mouse, and rat samples ; include appropriate isotype controls; perform peptide competition assays to confirm specificity.
Quantification challenges:
Challenge: Transitioning from qualitative to quantitative assessment of BRCC3 expression.
Solution: Implement digital pathology approaches with calibrated intensity measurements; use automated image analysis algorithms; include reference standards of known BRCC3 concentration for calibration.
By systematically addressing these technical challenges, researchers can optimize BRCC3 detection in clinical samples for accurate diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive assessments .
Reconciling contradictory findings about BRCC3 function across different experimental systems requires a systematic approach that addresses biological complexity and methodological differences:
Context-dependent functions analysis:
Apparent contradiction: BRCC3 promotes tumorigenesis in bladder cancer but mutations in BRCC3 are associated with favorable outcomes in AML .
Reconciliation approach: Analyze BRCC3 function within specific molecular contexts (e.g., t(8;21) in AML vs. TRAF2-NF-κB signaling in bladder cancer). Different cancer types may utilize BRCC3 through distinct pathways, leading to seemingly contradictory outcomes.
Enzymatic vs. structural role differentiation:
Apparent contradiction: In bladder cancer studies, both wild-type BRCC3 and deubiquitinating enzyme-null mutant BRCC3 (H122Q) showed similar effects on cell proliferation and migration .
Reconciliation approach: Design experiments that specifically distinguish between BRCC3's deubiquitinating activity and its structural role in protein complexes. This includes comparing phenotypes of catalytic mutants vs. complete knockouts and analyzing complex formation vs. enzymatic activity.
Subcellular localization resolution:
Apparent contradiction: BRCC3 functions in both nuclear DNA repair and cytoplasmic processes.
Reconciliation approach: Use high-resolution imaging and fractionation studies to determine precise subcellular localization under different conditions. Consider the differential functions of BRCC3 in BRISC (cytoplasmic) vs. ARISC (nuclear) complexes .
Temporal dynamics consideration:
Apparent contradiction: BRCC3 knockdown effects may vary depending on experimental timeframe.
Reconciliation approach: Conduct time-course studies to capture the dynamic nature of BRCC3 function, particularly in response to DNA damage. γH2AX foci studies showed that the effects of BRCC3 on DNA repair are most evident at later time points (48-120h after damage) .
Methodological harmonization:
Approach: Standardize key methodological aspects across experimental systems:
Gene modulation techniques (CRISPR vs. shRNA vs. overexpression)
Cell culture conditions (2D vs. 3D systems)
Endpoints measured (proliferation, migration, DNA repair capacity)
Statistical analysis approaches
Integrated multi-omics approach:
Approach: Combine proteomic, transcriptomic, and functional data to build a comprehensive model of BRCC3 function:
Analyze BRCC3 interactome under different conditions
Identify context-specific post-translational modifications
Map downstream transcriptional changes
Genetic background consideration:
Apparent contradiction: Different effects of BRCC3 manipulation across cell lines.
Reconciliation approach: Characterize the genetic background of experimental systems, particularly the status of DNA repair pathways and inflammatory signaling components that interact with BRCC3.
By systematically addressing these factors, researchers can develop a more nuanced understanding of BRCC3's multifaceted roles across different cellular contexts and disease states, reconciling seemingly contradictory findings into a cohesive functional model .
Developing predictive assays for chemotherapy response using BRCC3 antibodies in combination with other markers represents a promising research direction with potential clinical applications:
These integrated approaches could significantly improve the predictive power of current biomarker strategies, enabling more personalized treatment decisions based on a comprehensive assessment of DNA repair capacity and potential drug resistance mechanisms .
Emerging methodologies for investigating BRCC3's role in immune responses and inflammasome activation represent cutting-edge approaches in immunology research:
These methodologies enable researchers to comprehensively investigate BRCC3's emerging roles in immune regulation, potentially revealing new therapeutic opportunities for modulating inflammation through BRCC3-targeted approaches .
Investigating BRCC3's dual functionality in DNA repair and inflammatory signaling requires sophisticated experimental approaches that can disentangle these interconnected pathways:
Domain-specific functional analysis:
Structure-function studies: Generate domain-specific mutants of BRCC3 that selectively disrupt its interaction with either DNA repair components or inflammatory signaling molecules.
CRISPR-mediated domain editing: Target specific functional domains rather than complete gene knockout to distinguish domain-specific roles.
Protein complementation assays: Use split fluorescent proteins fused to BRCC3 domains to visualize specific protein interactions in living cells.
Pathway-specific recruitment and activation studies:
Optogenetic approaches: Develop light-inducible BRCC3 recruitment systems to selectively target BRCC3 to either DNA damage sites or inflammasome complexes.
Chemically-induced proximity systems: Use chemical dimerizers to force BRCC3 interaction with specific pathway components.
Cellular compartment-restricted BRCC3: Employ targeting sequences to confine BRCC3 to specific subcellular locations (nucleus vs. cytoplasm).
Integrated multi-omics approaches:
Spatial proteomics: Map BRCC3 interactome changes following DNA damage versus inflammatory stimuli.
Phospho-proteomics: Identify differential phosphorylation of BRCC3 during DNA repair versus inflammatory signaling.
Temporal transcriptomics: Track gene expression changes at multiple time points after pathway-specific activation.
Advanced microscopy for dynamic pathway analysis:
Two-photon intravital microscopy: Monitor BRCC3 dynamics in vivo during DNA damage and inflammatory responses.
Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy: Measure diffusion rates and complex formation of BRCC3 under different cellular conditions.
FRET-FLIM imaging: Detect direct protein-protein interactions between BRCC3 and pathway-specific partners.
Dual-stimulus experimental designs:
Sequential stimulation protocols: Apply DNA damaging agents followed by inflammatory stimuli (or vice versa) to assess pathway prioritization.
Competitive recruitment assays: Simultaneously induce DNA damage and inflammasome activation to determine BRCC3's preferential localization.
Quantitative distribution analysis: Measure the partition of BRCC3 between different cellular compartments and protein complexes under dual-stimulus conditions.
In vivo models with pathway reporters:
Dual-reporter mouse models: Generate animals expressing different fluorescent proteins driven by DNA damage response elements versus inflammatory promoters.
Tissue-specific conditional knockouts: Compare phenotypes of BRCC3 deletion in tissues predominantly affected by either DNA damage or inflammation.
Humanized mouse models: Reconstitute immunodeficient mice with human immune cells expressing wildtype or mutant BRCC3.
Therapeutic intervention studies:
Pathway-specific inhibitors: Use selective inhibitors of DNA repair or inflammatory pathways to assess how BRCC3 function is modified.
Small molecule BRCC3 modulators: Develop compounds that selectively affect BRCC3's interaction with specific pathway components.
Combination treatment strategies: Assess synergistic effects of targeting BRCC3 alongside pathway-specific interventions.
These approaches would help elucidate how BRCC3 balances its roles in these distinct but potentially interconnected cellular processes, potentially revealing therapeutic strategies that could selectively target one function while preserving the other .
The development of targeted therapeutics leveraging BRCC3 antibodies represents an emerging frontier with several innovative approaches:
Antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) development:
Internalization studies: Assess whether anti-BRCC3 antibodies undergo cellular internalization after binding, a prerequisite for effective ADC delivery.
Linker optimization: Test various cleavable and non-cleavable linkers to optimize drug release in target cells.
Payload selection: Evaluate cytotoxic agents that synergize with BRCC3 inhibition, particularly DNA-damaging agents that would be more effective in cells with compromised DNA repair.
Target population identification: Use BRCC3 antibodies to identify cancer types with high surface or accessible BRCC3 expression suitable for ADC targeting.
Bi-specific antibody approaches:
Immune recruitment strategies: Design bi-specific antibodies targeting both BRCC3 and immune effector cells (T cells, NK cells) to direct immune responses to BRCC3-expressing tumors.
Pathway modulation: Develop bi-specifics that simultaneously target BRCC3 and other components of DNA repair or inflammatory pathways for enhanced efficacy.
Tissue-specific delivery: Create bi-specifics that bind both BRCC3 and tumor-specific surface markers to improve targeted delivery.
Antibody-enabled functional modulation:
Intrabody development: Engineer antibody fragments that can function within cells to inhibit BRCC3's deubiquitinating activity.
Allosteric modulation: Identify antibodies that bind to BRCC3 and induce conformational changes affecting its enzymatic activity or protein interactions.
Complex disruption: Design antibodies that specifically disrupt BRCC3's interaction with key complex partners in either BRISC or ARISC complexes.
Companion diagnostic applications:
Predictive biomarker development: Validate BRCC3 antibodies for IHC/IF-based patient stratification to identify those likely to benefit from BRCC3-targeted therapies.
Treatment monitoring: Use quantitative BRCC3 detection to monitor treatment response and resistance development.
Minimal residual disease detection: Develop highly sensitive BRCC3 antibody-based assays for detecting low levels of cancer cells after treatment.
Clinical development strategies:
Cancer-type specific approaches:
For glioblastoma: Combine BRCC3 targeting with blood-brain barrier penetrating delivery systems, as BRCC3 contributes to TMZ resistance .
For bladder cancer: Target both BRCC3 and NF-κB pathway components based on their mechanistic connection .
For AML: Consider the paradoxical favorable prognosis of BRCC3 mutations when designing therapeutic strategies .
Combination therapy design:
Novel delivery platforms:
Nanoparticle-conjugated antibodies: For enhanced tumor penetration and sustained release.
Cell-penetrating antibody derivatives: To access intracellular BRCC3 pools.
Extracellular vesicle delivery: Using exosomes or microvesicles to deliver anti-BRCC3 therapeutics.
These approaches highlight the potential of BRCC3 antibodies not only as research tools but as critical components of novel therapeutic strategies targeting cancers with aberrant BRCC3 expression or function .