COPT2 (SLC31A2) is a 143-amino-acid membrane protein with a molecular weight of 15.7 kDa . Key features include:
Domains: Three transmembrane domains (TMDs), extracellular N-terminus, cytosolic C-terminus, and conserved motifs (MxxxM, GxxxG) .
Function: Regulates copper(1+) transport and modulates SLC31A1 stability, influencing cellular copper and cisplatin accumulation .
Localization: Plasma membrane (plants) , cytoplasmic vesicles, lysosomes, and membranes (human) .
Copper Transport Regulation:
Therapeutic Implications:
Cross-Species Relevance:
Q: What are the key considerations when designing experiments using COPT2 antibodies in research settings?
A: When using COPT2 antibodies, it is crucial to consider several factors:
Specificity and Cross-reactivity: Ensure the antibody is specific to COPT2 and does not cross-react with other proteins. This can be verified by using knockout cell lines or orthogonal validation methods .
Sample Preparation: Optimize sample preparation to minimize background noise and ensure proper antigen retrieval if necessary .
Control Experiments: Include appropriate controls, such as isotype controls or secondary antibody-only controls, to validate the specificity of the antibody binding .
Q: How can researchers address potential contradictions in data obtained using COPT2 antibodies?
A: Contradictions in data can arise from several sources:
Antibody Quality: Poor antibody specificity or batch-to-batch variability can lead to inconsistent results. Use high-quality, validated antibodies and consider using recombinant antibodies, which often perform better than traditional monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies .
Experimental Conditions: Differences in experimental conditions, such as buffer composition or temperature, can affect antibody performance. Standardize conditions across experiments to ensure comparability .
Data Validation: Use orthogonal methods (e.g., RNA expression analysis) to validate protein expression levels and confirm antibody specificity .
Q: What are the principles for designing and engineering antibodies like those targeting COPT2?
A: Designing antibodies involves several key principles:
Sequence and Structural Constraints: Use sequence-design constraints derived from antibody multiple-sequence alignments to maintain stabilizing interactions between the framework and complementarity-determining regions (CDRs) .
Backbone Design: Ensure that the antibody backbone is stable and properly configured to support CDRs. This can involve segmenting the backbone into parts and optimizing sequence using algorithms like AbDesign .
Validation: Validate designed antibodies using methods such as yeast cell surface display to assess expression levels and binding affinity .
Q: How can researchers choose and validate COPT2 antibodies for use in non-model organisms?
A: When working with non-model organisms:
Sequence Alignment: Align the immunogen sequence of the antibody with the protein of interest in your organism. An alignment score of over 85% suggests potential cross-reactivity .
Experimental Validation: Perform control experiments to validate the antibody's performance in your specific organism. This may include using knockout or knockdown models if available .
Q: What methodological considerations are important when using COPT2 antibodies in assays like western blot or immunofluorescence?
A: Key considerations include:
Host Species: Choose primary antibodies raised in a different species than your sample to avoid cross-reactivity with endogenous immunoglobulins .
Assay Optimization: Optimize assay conditions (e.g., antibody concentration, incubation time) to maximize signal-to-noise ratio .
Quality Control: Use quality control measures such as western blotting with known positive and negative controls to ensure antibody specificity and functionality .
| Application | Quality Control Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| Western Blot | 49.8% |
| Immunoprecipitation | 43.6% |
| Immunofluorescence (IF) | 36.5% |
This table highlights the importance of validating antibodies across different applications, as performance can vary significantly .