CPXCR1 (CPX Chromosome Region Candidate 1) is a protein encoded by the CPXCR1 gene located on the X chromosome. It is implicated in X-linked cleft palate (CPX) disorders and is also known as Cancer/testis antigen 77 (CT77) due to its expression in certain cancers . CPXCR1 antibodies are immunological tools designed to detect and study this protein in research settings. These antibodies are primarily used in techniques such as Western blotting (WB), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), and immunoprecipitation (IP) .
Role in Disease: CPXCR1 resides in a genomic region linked to X-linked cleft palate (CPX) . Its zinc finger motif suggests potential regulatory functions .
Cancer Association: Elevated expression in testicular and other cancers classifies it as a cancer/testis antigen, making it a potential biomarker or therapeutic target .
Western Blot: Detects CPXCR1 at 28–30 kDa in human skeletal muscle and mouse liver tissues .
Immunoprecipitation: Validated in mouse skeletal muscle lysates .
ELISA: Commercial kits (e.g., ABIN1127956) enable quantitative analysis of CPXCR1 in human samples .
Cleft Palate Research: Used to investigate CPXCR1's role in craniofacial development .
Cancer Biology: Explores CT77 expression patterns in tumor microenvironments .
CPXCR1 (CPX chromosome region, candidate 1) is a protein encoded by the CPXCR1 gene with a molecular weight of approximately 28-30 kDa when observed in western blot applications. It is expressed in various tissues including skeletal muscle and liver across different species. The protein is involved in several cellular processes, though its precise function is still being elucidated through ongoing research. Current detection methods primarily rely on antibody-based techniques to study its expression patterns and potential functions in different tissue contexts .
CPXCR1 antibodies are primarily used in Western Blot (WB), Immunoprecipitation (IP), and ELISA applications. Some antibodies may also be validated for Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Immunofluorescence (IF) depending on the specific product. When selecting an antibody, researchers should consider which applications have been validated for their specific research needs. Most commercially available CPXCR1 antibodies show reactivity with human and mouse samples, making them suitable for comparative studies across these species .
The observed molecular weight for CPXCR1 protein is typically in the range of 28-30 kDa in Western Blot applications. This information is critical for proper identification of the protein band and distinguishing it from potential non-specific binding. When running gels for Western Blot analysis, researchers should ensure their molecular weight markers adequately cover this range for accurate determination of CPXCR1 detection .
Current validation data shows successful detection of CPXCR1 in:
Sample Type | Validated Application |
---|---|
Mouse liver tissue | Western Blot |
Human skeletal muscle tissue | Western Blot |
Mouse skeletal muscle tissue | Immunoprecipitation |
Researchers working with other tissue types should perform preliminary validation studies to confirm antibody performance in their specific sample context .
Optimal dilution ranges vary by application type:
Application | Recommended Dilution |
---|---|
Western Blot (WB) | 1:200-1:1000 |
Immunoprecipitation (IP) | 0.5-4.0 μg for 1.0-3.0 mg of total protein lysate |
These ranges should be considered starting points, and researchers should perform titration experiments to determine the optimal concentration for their specific experimental system. Factors such as protein expression level, sample type, and detection method can all influence the ideal antibody concentration .
A comprehensive validation strategy should include:
Positive and negative controls: Use tissues with known expression patterns (e.g., mouse liver or human skeletal muscle as positive controls)
Specificity testing: Include CPXCR1 knockout/knockdown samples if available
Concentration optimization: Test multiple antibody dilutions to determine optimal signal-to-noise ratio
Cross-reactivity assessment: Verify specificity by immunoblotting with recombinant CPXCR1 protein
Application-specific validation: For each intended application (WB, IP, IHC), perform specific validation experiments
This systematic approach ensures reliable antibody performance and reduces the risk of non-specific signals or false negatives in experimental results .
For optimal Western Blot results when detecting CPXCR1:
Sample preparation: Use appropriate lysis buffers containing protease inhibitors to preserve protein integrity
Protein loading: Load 20-40 μg of total protein per lane for standard detection
Gel percentage: Use 10-12% polyacrylamide gels for optimal resolution in the 28-30 kDa range
Transfer conditions: Optimize transfer time and voltage based on protein size (typical PVDF membrane transfer at 100V for 60-90 minutes)
Blocking: Use 5% non-fat dry milk or BSA in TBST (may vary based on specific antibody)
Antibody incubation: Start with 1:500 dilution for primary antibody incubation overnight at 4°C
Detection system: Use appropriate secondary antibody and detection reagents based on desired sensitivity
Researchers should note that sample-dependent optimization may be necessary to achieve optimal results .
For co-immunoprecipitation studies investigating CPXCR1 interaction partners:
Cross-linking consideration: Determine whether reversible cross-linking would enhance detection of transient interactions
Antibody selection: Choose antibodies validated for IP applications (0.5-4.0 μg for 1.0-3.0 mg of total protein)
Pre-clearing strategy: Pre-clear lysates with appropriate control IgG to reduce non-specific binding
Buffer optimization: Test different lysis and washing buffers to preserve interactions while reducing background
Elution methods: Consider native elution methods for downstream functional assays
Controls: Include IgG control immunoprecipitations and input samples for accurate interpretation
This approach allows researchers to study protein-protein interactions involving CPXCR1 while minimizing experimental artifacts .
Assessing antibody specificity requires a multi-faceted approach:
Computational analysis: Compare antibody epitope against protein databases to identify potential cross-reactive proteins
Blocking peptide experiments: Pre-incubate antibody with immunizing peptide to confirm specificity
Knockout/knockdown validation: Test antibody in CPXCR1-deficient systems
Cross-species reactivity: Evaluate performance across species based on epitope conservation
Multiple antibody comparison: Use different antibodies targeting distinct epitopes of CPXCR1
Mass spectrometry validation: Confirm identity of immunoprecipitated proteins
This comprehensive approach ensures confident interpretation of experimental results and minimizes false positives .
Advanced computational approaches can enhance antibody specificity:
Epitope mapping: Identify the specific regions of CPXCR1 targeted by the antibody
Structural analysis: Use protein structure models to predict accessibility of epitopes
Energy function optimization: Employ biophysics-informed modeling to predict binding interactions
Cross-reactivity prediction: Compare epitope sequences with proteome databases to identify potential off-targets
Selection experiment analysis: Use high-throughput sequencing data to identify antibody binding modes
These computational methods complement experimental approaches and can guide the design of antibodies with improved specificity profiles .
Several factors can contribute to false negatives:
Protein degradation: Ensure proper sample handling with protease inhibitors and appropriate storage
Inefficient protein extraction: Optimize lysis conditions for the specific tissue type
Epitope masking: Consider different denaturing conditions if epitope accessibility is an issue
Insufficient antibody concentration: Titrate antibody to determine optimal concentration
Suboptimal transfer conditions: Verify transfer efficiency using reversible protein stains
Detection system sensitivity: Consider more sensitive detection methods for low-abundance proteins
Species-specific limitations: Confirm antibody reactivity with the species being studied
Systematic troubleshooting addressing each of these factors can help resolve detection issues .
When unexpected bands appear:
Post-translational modifications: Consider whether bands at higher molecular weights represent phosphorylated, glycosylated, or ubiquitinated forms
Splice variants: Research known splice variants of CPXCR1 that may explain alternative band patterns
Proteolytic fragments: Determine if lower molecular weight bands represent degradation products
Non-specific binding: Perform peptide competition assays to identify true CPXCR1-specific signals
Antibody cross-reactivity: Compare results with different antibodies targeting the same protein
Sample preparation artifacts: Evaluate whether sample preparation methods contribute to unexpected bands
This analytical approach helps distinguish between biologically relevant signals and technical artifacts .
For optimal antibody performance:
Storage temperature: Store at -20°C as recommended for long-term stability
Aliquoting strategy: Prepare single-use aliquots to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Working dilution stability: Diluted antibodies can be stored at 4°C for short periods (typically 1-2 weeks)
Buffer considerations: PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol (pH 7.3) is typical for storage
Contamination prevention: Use sterile technique when handling antibody solutions
Transport conditions: Maintain cold chain during transportation
Expiration monitoring: Antibodies are typically stable for one year after shipment under recommended storage conditions
Following these guidelines helps maintain antibody performance and extends shelf-life .
Accurate quantification requires:
Loading controls: Use established housekeeping proteins appropriate for the tissue type
Linear dynamic range: Perform pilot experiments to ensure signal falls within the linear range of detection
Replicate design: Include biological and technical replicates for statistical validity
Normalization strategy: Normalize CPXCR1 signal to loading controls using appropriate software
Standard curve consideration: Include a standard curve using recombinant CPXCR1 protein for absolute quantification
Image acquisition: Use calibrated imaging systems with appropriate exposure settings to avoid saturation
Statistical analysis: Apply appropriate statistical tests for comparing expression across experimental conditions
This methodical approach ensures reproducible and reliable quantification of CPXCR1 expression .
Recommended statistical approaches include:
Normality testing: Determine whether data follows normal distribution (Shapiro-Wilk test)
Parametric tests: Use t-tests for two-group comparisons or ANOVA for multiple groups if data is normally distributed
Non-parametric alternatives: Apply Mann-Whitney or Kruskal-Wallis tests for non-normally distributed data
Multiple comparison correction: Employ Bonferroni or FDR correction when performing multiple comparisons
Correlation analysis: Use Pearson's or Spearman's correlation to examine relationships between CPXCR1 and other factors
Power analysis: Determine appropriate sample sizes for detecting biologically meaningful differences
Visualization: Present data using appropriate graphs that represent both the mean effects and data variability
These statistical considerations ensure robust interpretation of experimental results .
A multi-modal approach to CPXCR1 characterization includes:
Transcript-protein correlation: Compare protein expression (antibody-based) with mRNA levels (qPCR, RNA-seq)
Functional validation: Combine expression data with functional assays following knockdown/overexpression
Interaction networks: Integrate co-immunoprecipitation data with interactome databases
Subcellular localization: Correlate immunofluorescence findings with cellular fractionation studies
Post-translational modifications: Combine generic antibody detection with modification-specific antibodies
Structural information: Interpret antibody binding in the context of protein structure predictions
Cross-species conservation: Compare expression patterns across species for evolutionary insights
This integrated approach provides a more complete understanding of CPXCR1 biology than any single method alone .
For custom antibody development:
Epitope selection: Choose unique, accessible regions of CPXCR1 with low homology to other proteins
Immunization strategy: Consider multiple host species to increase chances of successful immune response
Screening methodology: Implement rigorous screening against both target and potential cross-reactive proteins
Affinity maturation: Employ directed evolution or computational approaches to enhance binding properties
Validation pipeline: Establish comprehensive validation protocols including knockout controls
Clonality consideration: Determine whether polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies better suit experimental needs
Format optimization: Evaluate different antibody formats (full IgG, Fab, scFv) for specific applications
These approaches increase the likelihood of generating high-specificity antibodies for research applications .
Epitope mapping and binding mode validation can be achieved through:
Peptide array analysis: Test antibody binding against overlapping peptides spanning the CPXCR1 sequence
Mutagenesis studies: Create point mutations in potential epitope regions to identify critical binding residues
Hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry: Identify regions protected from exchange upon antibody binding
X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM: Determine precise structural interactions in antibody-antigen complexes
Competitive binding assays: Assess whether different antibodies compete for binding to CPXCR1
In silico modeling: Predict antibody-antigen interactions using computational approaches
Cross-linking coupled with mass spectrometry: Identify contact residues in antibody-antigen complexes
These methods provide detailed information about antibody-antigen interactions that can guide experimental design and interpretation .
Emerging technologies with potential impact include:
Proximity labeling: Combine CPXCR1 antibodies with enzymes like BioID or APEX2 to identify neighboring proteins
Intrabodies: Develop cell-permeable antibodies for live-cell imaging and manipulation of CPXCR1
Nanobodies/single-domain antibodies: Exploit smaller antibody formats for applications requiring tissue penetration
Bispecific antibodies: Create reagents targeting CPXCR1 and interacting partners simultaneously
Antibody-drug conjugates: Develop tools for targeted manipulation of CPXCR1-expressing cells
Conditionally stable antibody fragments: Generate tools that only function under specific cellular conditions
Computationally designed antibodies: Utilize machine learning approaches to design antibodies with custom specificity profiles
These technologies expand the experimental toolkit beyond traditional immunodetection methods .
For studying CPXCR1 in complex tissues:
Single-cell approaches: Consider combining antibodies with single-cell technologies to resolve cell-type specific expression
Spatial context: Employ multiplexed imaging to understand CPXCR1 expression in tissue architecture
In situ validation: Confirm antibody specificity in tissue context using appropriate controls
Developmental timing: Account for potential temporal variations in expression patterns
Microenvironment factors: Consider how tissue conditions affect epitope accessibility
Tissue clearing compatibility: Evaluate antibody performance in protocols for three-dimensional imaging
Cross-species considerations: Validate antibodies specifically for the species being studied
These considerations ensure meaningful interpretation of CPXCR1 expression in complex biological systems .
Best practices include:
Multiple application validation: Confirm antibody performance in each intended application
Genetic controls: Utilize knockout/knockdown systems whenever possible
Multiple antibody approach: Use independent antibodies targeting different epitopes
Biological relevance: Correlate antibody results with functional or genetic data
Protocol transparency: Document detailed methodologies including critical parameters
Positive controls: Include samples with known CPXCR1 expression (e.g., mouse liver or human skeletal muscle)
Lot-to-lot validation: Verify performance across different antibody lots
Adherence to these practices enhances research reproducibility and reliability .
When comparing commercial antibodies:
Validation data assessment: Review the breadth and quality of validation experiments
Application-specific performance: Prioritize antibodies validated for your specific application
Epitope information: Consider the target region and potential impact on protein detection
Host species compatibility: Ensure compatibility with other antibodies in multiplexed applications
Clonality considerations: Evaluate whether polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies better suit experimental needs
Independent validation: Search literature for independent validation of commercial antibodies
Technical support: Consider vendor expertise and support for troubleshooting
This systematic evaluation helps select the most appropriate antibody for specific research applications .