The CCD1 antibody is designed to target the Coiled-coil-DIX1 (Ccd1) protein, also known as DIXDC1. Ccd1 is an 80 kDa cytoplasmic actin-binding protein that plays a crucial role in mediating Wnt signaling by interacting with Dishevelled and Axin . This interaction is significant for various cellular processes, including Wnt pathway activation and axonal morphogenesis in neurons .
Ccd1 is involved in the activation of the Wnt signaling pathway, which is essential for numerous developmental and cellular processes. It acts by converting latent polymeric Dishevelled into a biologically active oligomer, thus facilitating Wnt signaling . Additionally, Ccd1 is implicated in axonal morphogenesis, particularly in promoting axon growth and development in neurons .
The CCD1 antibody, such as the one provided by R&D Systems (Catalog # AF5599), is derived from E. coli and targets the recombinant mouse Ccd1/DIXDC1 protein spanning amino acids Gln481 to Asn711 . This antibody is used for detecting Ccd1 in various applications, including Western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC).
| Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|
| Source | E. coli-derived recombinant mouse Ccd1/DIXDC1 |
| Target Sequence | Gln481-Asn711 |
| Applications | Western Blot, IHC |
| Detection | Specific bands at approximately 59 and 45 kDa |
Ccd1's role in Wnt signaling is crucial for its activation. Studies have shown that Ccd1 can activate Wnt signaling by interacting with Dishevelled, leading to the conversion of latent Dishevelled polymers into active oligomers . This process is vital for various cellular and developmental processes.
In neurons, Ccd1 is localized primarily in the cytoplasm and axon terminals, where it plays a significant role in promoting axon growth. Knockdown experiments have demonstrated that Ccd1 is essential for axonal morphogenesis, as its reduction leads to decreased axon length without affecting dendrite length or neuronal survival .
| Parameter | Control Neurons | Ccd1 Knockdown Neurons |
|---|---|---|
| Axon Length | Normal growth | Reduced axon length |
| Dendrite Length | Unaffected | Unaffected |
| Neuronal Survival | Normal | Normal |
CCD1/DIXDC1 Antibody is a polyclonal antibody designed to detect mouse Ccd1/DIXDC1 protein in experimental settings. Based on current literature, this antibody specifically recognizes E. coli-derived recombinant mouse Ccd1/DIXDC1, spanning amino acids Gln481-Asn711 (Accession # Q80Y83). The antibody demonstrates species reactivity to mouse samples and can detect specific bands for Ccd1/DIXDC1 at approximately 59 and 45 kDa under reducing conditions .
The target protein, Ccd1/DIXDC1, is involved in signaling pathways that regulate cell processes. Evidence from scientific studies indicates that Ccd1/DIXDC1 may participate in pathways downstream of the LKB1 tumor suppressor, potentially controlling Snail1 and metastatic potential, as referenced in published research cited in product datasheets .
The CCD1/DIXDC1 Antibody has been validated for multiple experimental approaches, each requiring specific optimization protocols:
Western Blotting: Effectively detects specific bands at approximately 59 and 45 kDa using PVDF membranes under reducing conditions with appropriate buffer systems.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Successfully detects Ccd1/DIXDC1 in immersion fixed frozen sections of mouse embryo (13 d.p.c.), with specific staining localized to neopallial cortex and midbrain regions.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Functions in direct ELISA format for quantitative detection of the target protein .
For each application, researchers should optimize conditions including antibody concentration, incubation parameters, and detection methods based on their specific experimental requirements.
Proper validation is essential for reliable, reproducible results. Researchers should implement a multi-step validation strategy:
Knockout/Knockdown Verification: Test antibody in samples where the target protein is genetically depleted to confirm specificity.
Western Blot Analysis: Verify that observed molecular weights match expected sizes (59 and 45 kDa for Ccd1/DIXDC1).
Positive Control Selection: Use tissues known to express the target (e.g., mouse brain tissue for Ccd1/DIXDC1) .
Cross-Reactivity Assessment: Test against related proteins to confirm specificity.
Multi-Application Testing: Validate performance across different techniques to ensure consistent results.
Researchers must recognize that many antibodies used in research fail to recognize their intended targets or recognize additional molecules, compromising research integrity and reproducibility . Documentation of validation steps is critical for publication and experimental reproducibility.
Cross-reactivity represents a significant challenge in antibody-based research. To differentiate between true positive signals and cross-reactivity:
Implement knockout controls when available as the gold standard verification method.
Perform peptide competition assays by pre-incubating the antibody with excess immunizing peptide to block specific binding sites.
Test the antibody in tissues/cell lines known not to express the target.
Employ orthogonal detection methods (mass spectrometry, PCR) to confirm findings.
Consider epitope mapping to identify the specific binding region and potential for cross-reactivity.
Researchers should be particularly vigilant about potential cross-reactivity with carbohydrate determinants, as some antibodies may recognize glycosylation patterns rather than protein-specific epitopes .
Batch-to-batch variability is a significant challenge with antibody reagents. Based on scientific consensus, researchers should:
Record lot numbers and maintain detailed experimental records for all antibody-based experiments.
Validate each new batch before use in critical experiments through side-by-side comparisons with previously validated lots.
Create master stocks of validated antibody for long-term studies requiring consistent reagents.
Consider using recombinant antibodies when available, which typically demonstrate improved consistency between batches.
Implement standardized handling and storage protocols across research teams.
Research shows that batch-to-batch variability in antibodies contributes significantly to reproducibility challenges in biomedical research, with variations in production methods, purification processes, and storage conditions all affecting performance .
Multiple experimental factors can affect epitope accessibility and binding efficiency:
Fixation Methods: Chemical fixatives can mask or alter epitopes. Based on comparative studies, researchers should evaluate the impact of fixation on each antibody's performance as different epitopes may require different fixation protocols .
Sample Processing: Denaturation, reduction, and proteolytic processing can alter epitope structure and accessibility.
Buffer Composition: pH, salt concentration, and detergent presence significantly impact binding kinetics and specificity.
Post-Translational Modifications: Phosphorylation, glycosylation, and other modifications may mask or create epitopes.
Spatial Constraints: In complex samples, protein-protein interactions may block antibody access to targets.
Systematic testing of these variables is recommended when establishing new antibody-based protocols or troubleshooting existing ones.
Based on validated experimental approaches, the following protocol has demonstrated consistent results:
Sample Preparation:
Prepare tissue/cell lysates under reducing conditions
Include protease inhibitors to prevent degradation
Electrophoresis and Transfer:
Use PVDF membrane for optimal protein binding
Employ wet transfer methods for consistent results
Antibody Application:
Block with appropriate blocking buffer
Apply CCD1/DIXDC1 antibody at 1 μg/mL concentration
Incubate overnight at 4°C for optimal binding
Use HRP-conjugated Anti-Goat IgG Secondary Antibody for detection
Develop using sensitive ECL detection systems
Expected Results:
For successful immunohistochemical detection:
Sample Preparation:
Use immersion-fixed frozen sections for optimal epitope preservation
Consider testing multiple fixation methods if signal is weak
Antibody Application:
Apply CCD1/DIXDC1 antibody at 15 μg/mL concentration
Incubate overnight at 4°C for maximum sensitivity
Use appropriate detection system (e.g., Anti-Goat HRP-DAB Cell & Tissue Staining Kit)
Counterstain with hematoxylin for structural context
Expected Results:
Troubleshooting:
For weak signals, increase antibody concentration or extend incubation time
For high background, optimize blocking or reduce antibody concentration
When incorporating CCD1/DIXDC1 Antibody into multiplex studies:
Panel Design:
Evaluate potential cross-reactivity between primary antibodies
Ensure secondary detection reagents don't cross-react
Consider spectral overlap if using fluorescent detection systems
Sample Processing:
Controls:
Include appropriate controls for each antibody in the panel
Establish compensation controls for fluorescent multiplexing
Prepare single-stained controls for each marker
Data Analysis:
For accurate quantification of CCD1/DIXDC1 signals:
Western Blot Quantification:
Use digital image acquisition with appropriate dynamic range
Ensure signal falls within linear range of detection
Apply consistent exposure settings across comparative samples
Normalize to appropriate loading controls (β-actin, GAPDH)
Perform densitometric analysis using calibrated software
IHC Quantification:
Apply consistent staining protocols across all samples
Use digital image analysis software for objective quantification
Establish scoring systems based on staining intensity and distribution
Employ multiple independent scorers to reduce subjective bias
Statistical Analysis:
Perform multiple biological and technical replicates
Apply appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution
Consider power analysis to determine adequate sample size
Different banding patterns may provide valuable biological information:
Expected Bands (59 and 45 kDa):
Additional Bands:
May represent splice variants or post-translational modifications
Proteolytic fragments generated during sample processing
Potential cross-reactivity with related proteins
Verification Strategies:
Compare with literature reports on CCD1/DIXDC1 protein
Use knockout/knockdown controls to confirm specificity
Employ mass spectrometry to identify proteins in unexpected bands
Test different sample preparation methods to assess protein stability
To enhance reproducibility, researchers should report:
Complete Antibody Identification:
Validation Methods:
Specific controls employed (positive, negative, knockout)
Cross-reactivity assessment results
Batch validation procedures
Detailed Protocols:
Precise dilutions and concentrations
Incubation times and temperatures
Buffer compositions
Detection systems and settings
Any modifications to manufacturer's recommended procedures
Data Presentation:
Include representative images with scale bars
Present complete blots including molecular weight markers
Document image acquisition and processing parameters
Inconsistent results may stem from multiple factors:
Antibody Variables:
Batch-to-batch variability (compare lot numbers)
Degradation due to improper storage or handling
Freeze-thaw cycles affecting antibody stability
Sample Variables:
Inconsistent sample preparation
Protein degradation during processing
Variations in post-translational modifications
Protocol Variables:
Changes in reagent compositions
Inconsistent incubation times or temperatures
Variations in detection systems or settings
Systematic Approach to Resolution:
Standardize protocols across experiments
Implement positive and negative controls with each run
Validate new antibody lots against previously successful experiments
Document all experimental conditions meticulously
To improve signal-to-noise ratio:
Blocking Optimization:
Test different blocking agents (BSA, milk, serum)
Extend blocking time or increase blocker concentration
Use species-appropriate blockers
Antibody Dilution:
Titrate primary antibody to determine optimal concentration
Increase washing duration and frequency
Consider reducing secondary antibody concentration
Buffer Modification:
Add detergents to reduce hydrophobic interactions
Adjust salt concentration to reduce ionic interactions
Optimize pH for specific epitope-antibody binding
Sample Preparation:
Pre-clear lysates to remove non-specific binding components
Filter or centrifuge samples to eliminate aggregates
Consider alternative fixation methods for preserved samples
Proper storage and handling significantly impact antibody performance:
Storage Recommendations:
Follow manufacturer guidelines for temperature (-20°C or -80°C)
Aliquot antibodies to minimize freeze-thaw cycles
Add carrier proteins to dilute antibodies for stability
Monitor storage conditions and document any deviations
Handling Procedures:
Allow antibodies to equilibrate to room temperature before opening
Centrifuge briefly before opening to collect condensation
Use sterile technique when handling antibody solutions
Return to appropriate storage promptly after use
Quality Control:
Implement routine validation tests for long-stored antibodies
Label all aliquots with date, dilution, and freeze-thaw cycle count
Consider positive control testing before critical experiments
Documentation:
Maintain detailed records of storage conditions
Track performance across different storage durations
Document any deviations from recommended handling procedures
| Control Type | Purpose | Implementation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Positive Control | Confirm antibody can detect target | Use mouse brain tissue for CCD1/DIXDC1 detection |
| Negative Control | Evaluate background/non-specific binding | Omit primary antibody or use non-expressing tissues |
| Knockout/Knockdown | Verify antibody specificity | Test in Ccd1/DIXDC1-knockout or knockdown models |
| Peptide Competition | Confirm epitope specificity | Pre-incubate antibody with immunizing peptide |
| Isotype Control | Assess non-specific binding | Use non-specific antibody of same isotype |
| Secondary-Only | Evaluate background from secondary antibody | Omit primary antibody in staining protocol |