CYP2C8 antibodies are immunoreagents designed to detect and quantify the CYP2C8 enzyme, a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily involved in xenobiotic metabolism and arachidonic acid processing . These antibodies enable researchers to study CYP2C8's expression, localization, and function in tissues like the liver, heart, and vascular endothelium .
| Application | Dilution Range | Buffer/Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Western Blot | 1:2,000–1:10,000 | PBS with 0.02% sodium azide, 50% glycerol |
| IHC | 1:300–1:1,200 | Antigen retrieval with TE buffer (pH 9.0) or citrate buffer (pH 6.0) recommended |
| ELISA | Custom titration | Dependent on sample type and experimental setup |
CYP2C8 metabolizes clinically significant drugs, including:
Paclitaxel (anticancer agent)
Rosiglitazone (antidiabetic)
Genetic polymorphisms (e.g., CYP2C83, CYP2C84) alter enzyme activity, affecting drug efficacy and toxicity. For example:
20–60% of African and European populations carry reduced-function alleles linked to adverse drug reactions .
CYP2C8 generates epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), which regulate vascular tone and blood pressure . Key findings include:
Cross-reactivity: Antibodies may bind CYP2C9/18/19 due to >80% sequence homology .
Band discrepancies: Observed molecular weight (50 kDa) differs from predicted 56 kDa, necessitating careful validation .
CYP28, also known as CYCLOPHILIN28, is a member of the cyclophilin-like peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase family of proteins. It functions primarily in photosystem II and light-harvesting complex II (LHC II) supercomplex assembly in plant systems, particularly in Arabidopsis thaliana . The protein exhibits peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity, which is essential for protein folding by catalyzing the isomerization of peptide bonds at proline residues. Two specific amino acid residues, K113 and E187, have been identified as essential for this PPIase activity . This enzyme plays a critical role in maintaining photosynthetic efficiency by ensuring proper assembly of protein complexes involved in light capture and energy conversion.
The structure of CYP28 contains specific functional domains characteristic of cyclophilin family proteins. Most critically, the amino acid residues K113 and E187 are essential for its peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity . These residues likely form part of the active site involved in catalyzing the isomerization of peptide bonds. The protein's structure enables it to interact with components of photosystem II and the light-harvesting complex II (LHC II) supercomplex, facilitating proper assembly of these photosynthetic machinery components . While the complete three-dimensional structure has not been fully characterized in the provided sources, the functional domains responsible for protein-protein interactions during photosystem assembly would be expected to be conserved across related plant species.
Detection of CYP28 in research samples typically employs immunological techniques using specific anti-CYP28 antibodies. The antibody available commercially is designed for recognizing the CYP28 protein in Arabidopsis thaliana samples . Standard detection methods include:
Western blotting: This technique allows for the identification and semi-quantification of CYP28 protein in plant tissue lysates. Samples are typically denatured, separated by SDS-PAGE, transferred to a membrane, and probed with anti-CYP28 antibody.
Immunohistochemistry: For localization studies examining the spatial distribution of CYP28 within plant tissues.
ELISA: For quantitative measurements of CYP28 levels in tissue extracts.
Immunoprecipitation: For isolation of CYP28 protein complexes to study interaction partners.
These methods can be optimized based on the methodological approaches established for other cytochrome-related proteins as described in literature for CYP family proteins .
When validating CYP28 antibody specificity for research applications, several critical controls should be implemented:
Positive control: Include purified recombinant CYP28 protein or extracts from tissues known to express high levels of CYP28 (such as photosynthetically active plant tissues) .
Negative control: Utilize samples from CYP28 knockout or knockdown plants, if available, or tissues known not to express CYP28.
Peptide competition assay: Pre-incubate the antibody with excess purified CYP28 peptide (immunogen) before the detection procedure. Signal disappearance confirms specificity.
Cross-reactivity assessment: Test the antibody against closely related cyclophilin family members to ensure it doesn't cross-react with other PPIases.
Western blot mobility verification: Confirm that the detected protein band appears at the expected molecular weight for CYP28.
This validation approach mirrors established protocols used for other CYP family antibodies, where specificity testing is critical for accurate experimental interpretation .
Distinguishing CYP28 from other cyclophilin family members requires a multi-faceted approach:
Highly specific antibodies: Use antibodies raised against unique epitopes of CYP28 that are not shared with other cyclophilin family members . The commercial CYP28 antibody targeting Arabidopsis thaliana is designed for such specificity.
Molecular weight differentiation: CYP28 will migrate at a specific molecular weight on SDS-PAGE gels that may differ from other cyclophilin proteins. Careful calibration with protein standards allows for discrimination based on size.
Mass spectrometry analysis: After immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry can provide definitive identification based on unique peptide sequences specific to CYP28.
Expression pattern analysis: CYP28 may have tissue-specific or subcellular localization patterns distinct from other cyclophilins, particularly in photosynthetic tissues where it functions in photosystem II assembly .
Functional assays: Since K113 and E187 are essential for CYP28's PPIase activity , mutational studies affecting these residues could help distinguish it functionally from other cyclophilins.
These approaches parallel methods used to distinguish between highly homologous CYP enzymes such as CYP2C8 and CYP2C9, which require specific antibodies and primers due to their extensive homology .
When investigating photosystem II assembly using CYP28 antibodies, researchers should consider these methodological aspects:
Sample preparation optimization: Photosynthetic complexes are membrane-associated and sensitive to degradation. Use gentle detergents and maintain low temperatures during extraction to preserve native complexes.
Co-immunoprecipitation protocols: For studying CYP28 interactions with other photosystem II components, optimize buffer conditions that maintain protein-protein interactions while allowing effective antibody binding.
Blue native PAGE: Consider using this technique in conjunction with CYP28 antibodies for Western blotting to analyze intact photosystem II supercomplexes.
Chloroplast isolation and fractionation: Implement subcellular fractionation to enrich for thylakoid membranes before immunological detection to improve sensitivity.
Time course experiments: Since CYP28 is involved in assembly processes, design experiments that capture dynamic assembly states following light exposure or during chloroplast development.
Crosslinking approaches: Consider chemical crosslinking prior to immunoprecipitation to capture transient interactions between CYP28 and other photosystem components.
These approaches should be implemented with appropriate controls similar to those used in studies of other enzyme systems involved in complex formation .
The performance of CYP28 antibodies across different experimental assays can be significantly influenced by several conditions:
Buffer composition:
For Western blotting: Phosphate-buffered saline with 0.1% Tween-20 (PBST) is typically effective
For immunoprecipitation: Milder detergents like NP-40 or Triton X-100 at 0.5-1% concentration help preserve protein interactions
Temperature considerations:
Antibody incubations at 4°C overnight often improve specificity compared to shorter incubations at room temperature
For plant samples, maintain cold temperatures during extraction to prevent degradation by released proteases
Blocking reagents:
BSA (3-5%) may be preferable to milk for phospho-specific epitopes
Testing both blocking agents can identify optimal conditions for CYP28 detection
Antigen retrieval (for fixed tissues):
Heat-induced epitope retrieval may be necessary for formalin-fixed plant tissues
pH optimization during antigen retrieval can significantly impact epitope accessibility
Antibody concentration:
Titration experiments should determine optimal concentration for each application
Higher concentrations may be needed for immunohistochemistry than Western blotting
These considerations align with methodological approaches used for other CYP family antibodies in research settings .
The optimal Western blotting protocol for CYP28 antibody includes these critical steps:
Sample preparation:
Homogenize plant tissue in ice-cold extraction buffer containing protease inhibitors
Centrifuge at 10,000-15,000 g to remove debris
For membrane-associated proteins, include 1% Triton X-100 or similar detergent in the extraction buffer
Protein separation:
Load 20-50 μg total protein per lane on 10-12% SDS-PAGE gel
Include positive control (recombinant CYP28) and molecular weight markers
Transfer conditions:
Transfer to PVDF membrane (preferable over nitrocellulose for this application)
Use standard transfer buffer with 20% methanol
Transfer at 100V for 1 hour or 30V overnight at 4°C
Blocking and antibody incubation:
Block with 5% non-fat dry milk in TBST for 1 hour at room temperature
Incubate with CYP28 antibody at 1:1000 dilution in blocking buffer overnight at 4°C
Wash 3-4 times with TBST, 5-10 minutes each
Incubate with HRP-conjugated secondary antibody (1:5000) for 1 hour at room temperature
Detection:
Develop using enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) substrate
Expected molecular weight should be verified against recombinant standards
This protocol incorporates principles used for detection of other CYP proteins in research settings , adapted for plant tissue samples containing CYP28.
Proper storage and handling of CYP28 antibodies is crucial for maintaining their activity and specificity:
Long-term storage:
Reconstitution protocol:
Use sterile techniques when reconstituting lyophilized antibody
Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation
Reconstitute in sterile buffer as recommended by manufacturer
Freeze-thaw considerations:
Working dilution handling:
Prepare fresh working dilutions on the day of experiment when possible
If storing diluted antibody, keep at 4°C and use within 1-2 weeks
Add BSA (0.1-1%) to diluted antibody solutions to prevent adsorption to tube walls
Transportation:
Transport on ice or cold packs
Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures during shipping
These storage recommendations align with standard practices for maintaining antibody stability and activity across experimental applications .
When encountering non-specific binding with CYP28 antibodies, researchers can implement these troubleshooting approaches:
Optimize blocking conditions:
Test different blocking agents (BSA, casein, commercial blocking reagents)
Increase blocking time or concentration (from 1 hour to overnight)
Add 0.1-0.3% Tween-20 to blocking buffer to reduce hydrophobic interactions
Modify antibody incubation parameters:
Reduce primary antibody concentration (try serial dilutions from 1:500 to 1:5000)
Decrease incubation temperature (4°C instead of room temperature)
Add 0.1-0.5% non-ionic detergent to antibody dilution buffer
Increase stringency of washes:
Extend washing time (15-20 minutes per wash instead of 5-10)
Increase number of washes (5-6 washes instead of 3-4)
Add higher salt concentration to wash buffer (up to 500 mM NaCl)
Pre-adsorption strategies:
Pre-incubate diluted antibody with extract from a system lacking CYP28
Use pre-adsorption with related proteins to remove cross-reactive antibodies
Alternative detection methods:
Switch from chemiluminescence to fluorescent secondary antibodies
Consider more sensitive detection systems for lower primary antibody concentrations
These approaches parallel methods used to optimize specificity with other CYP antibodies in research settings as described in the literature .
CYP28 antibodies can be powerful tools for investigating protein-protein interactions within photosynthetic complexes through several methodological approaches:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP):
Use CYP28 antibodies conjugated to agarose or magnetic beads
Gently lyse plant cells under non-denaturing conditions to preserve protein complexes
Precipitate CYP28 along with interacting partners
Identify co-precipitated proteins by mass spectrometry or Western blotting
Proximity ligation assay (PLA):
Utilize CYP28 antibody in combination with antibodies against suspected interaction partners
This technique allows visualization of protein interactions in situ with high specificity
Positive signals indicate proteins are within 40 nm of each other
Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC):
While not directly using antibodies, findings from antibody-based studies can inform BiFC construct design
Verify interactions identified by antibody methods using this complementary approach
Immunogold electron microscopy:
Use CYP28 antibodies conjugated to gold particles
Visualize the precise localization of CYP28 within photosystem II complexes at nanometer resolution
Crosslinking mass spectrometry:
Chemically crosslink protein complexes before immunoprecipitation with CYP28 antibodies
Identify crosslinked peptides by mass spectrometry to map interaction interfaces
These approaches build upon methodologies used to study protein-protein interactions in other complex enzyme systems, such as those described for cytochrome P450 enzymes in cardiovascular tissues .
Measuring CYP28 enzyme activity (PPIase activity) while correlating with antibody-based detection requires integrated experimental approaches:
Peptidyl-prolyl isomerase activity assay:
Coupled enzyme activity measurements:
In-gel activity assays:
Separate native protein complexes by non-denaturing gel electrophoresis
Perform activity assays directly in the gel
Transfer to membrane for Western blotting with CYP28 antibody
Align activity bands with immunoreactive bands
Enzyme kinetics determination:
Immunopurify CYP28 using specific antibodies
Measure enzyme kinetics parameters (Km, Vmax)
Compare across different experimental conditions or genetic backgrounds
These approaches integrate functional enzyme assays with immunological detection methods to provide a comprehensive analysis of CYP28 function, similar to approaches used with other enzyme systems .
While specific comparative data across different plant species is not provided in the search results, we can outline the methodological approach researchers should use to investigate CYP28 expression and activity patterns:
Cross-species expression analysis:
Extract total protein from comparable tissues across different plant species
Perform Western blot analysis using CYP28 antibody that recognizes conserved epitopes
Normalize loading with reference proteins like actin or tubulin
Present data as relative expression ratios across species
Tissue-specific expression profiling:
Sample different tissue types (leaves, stems, roots, reproductive structures)
Quantify CYP28 protein levels by Western blot or ELISA using specific antibodies
Correlate with tissue-specific PPIase activity measurements
Present as a comprehensive tissue expression matrix with both protein levels and activity data
Developmental expression analysis:
Sample tissues at different developmental stages
Monitor changes in CYP28 protein expression
Correlate with photosystem II assembly and function
Present time-course data showing relationships between development and CYP28 levels
Stress response evaluation:
Subject plants to various stresses (light, temperature, drought)
Monitor changes in CYP28 expression and activity
Correlate with photosynthetic efficiency metrics
Present comparative stress response data across species
This analytical approach follows methodologies established for studying expression patterns of other enzymes across different tissues, such as those used to characterize CYP2C8, CYP2C9 and CYP2J2 distribution in cardiovascular tissues .
Developing next-generation CYP28 antibodies with improved performance characteristics requires strategic approaches:
Epitope selection optimization:
Perform detailed sequence alignment of CYP28 across species to identify:
Highly conserved regions (for broad cross-species reactivity)
Unique regions (for specificity against other cyclophilins)
Avoid hydrophobic regions that may cause non-specific binding
Multiple antibody development strategies:
Generate antibodies against different epitopes:
N-terminal region antibodies
C-terminal region antibodies
Internal domain-specific antibodies
Develop both polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies for different applications
Validation methodology matrix:
Implement comprehensive validation across multiple techniques:
Western blotting
Immunoprecipitation
Immunohistochemistry
ELISA
Validate in multiple plant species
Test against knockout/knockdown samples as negative controls
Antibody engineering approaches:
Fragment antibodies (Fab, scFv) for better tissue penetration
Recombinant antibody production for batch-to-batch consistency
Affinity maturation to enhance sensitivity
These approaches parallel methodologies used to develop highly specific antibodies for other closely related protein families, such as those described for distinguishing between CYP2C8 and CYP2C9 .
When designing comparative studies of CYP28 across evolutionary lineages, researchers should consider these methodological aspects:
Phylogenetic analysis framework:
Structural homology modeling:
Generate structural models based on crystallized cyclophilins
Compare active site architecture across species
Identify conserved interaction surfaces for photosystem II components
Present structural overlays highlighting conserved vs. divergent regions
Functional conservation testing:
Use recombinant protein expression systems
Conduct complementation studies across species
Measure PPIase activity with standardized substrates
Present comparative enzymatic parameters (kcat, Km) across species
Antibody cross-reactivity mapping:
Test CYP28 antibodies against orthologous proteins from different species
Determine epitope conservation boundaries
Optimize pan-specific vs. species-specific antibodies
Present hierarchical clustering of immunological cross-reactivity
This approach integrates evolutionary analysis with functional biochemistry, similar to studies examining the relative expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes across different tissues and species .
Advanced imaging methodologies offer significant potential for elucidating CYP28 localization and dynamics in photosynthetic systems:
Super-resolution microscopy applications:
Implement STORM or PALM imaging with CYP28 antibodies
Achieve 10-20 nm resolution of CYP28 localization within thylakoid membranes
Dual-label with photosystem II components to map spatial relationships
Present high-resolution localization maps showing CYP28 distribution patterns
Live-cell imaging strategies:
Combine antibody fragment labeling with fluorescent proteins
Track dynamic assembly processes in real-time
Measure protein mobility using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP)
Present time-resolved visualizations of assembly dynamics
Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM):
Localize CYP28 by fluorescence microscopy
Correlate with ultrastructural features using electron microscopy
Generate 3D reconstructions of CYP28 distribution relative to thylakoid architecture
Present multi-scale imaging data from molecular to organelle levels
Single-molecule tracking:
Label CYP28 with quantum dots or other bright fluorophores
Track individual molecules during photosystem assembly
Calculate diffusion coefficients and binding kinetics
Present single-molecule trajectories and statistical analyses
These approaches extend beyond traditional immunolocalization methods to provide dynamic, high-resolution insights into CYP28 function in photosynthetic membrane organization.
CYP28 antibodies offer valuable research tools for investigating photosynthetic efficiency and stress responses through several promising research directions:
Stress adaptation mechanisms:
Monitor CYP28 protein levels during:
High light stress
Temperature extremes
Drought conditions
Nutrient limitation
Correlate CYP28 abundance with photosynthetic complex stability
Evaluate the protective role of PPIase activity during stress
Present integrated datasets connecting CYP28 levels, PPIase activity, and photosynthetic parameters
Genetic engineering applications:
Use antibodies to validate CYP28 overexpression or modified variants
Assess impacts on photosystem II assembly efficiency
Evaluate potential for enhancing crop photosynthetic performance
Present comparative analysis between wild-type and engineered plants
Climate change adaptation research:
Study CYP28 expression patterns in plants from extreme environments
Identify natural variants with enhanced stability or activity
Evaluate potential for engineering climate-resilient crops
Present ecophysiological correlations between environmental conditions and CYP28 expression
Systems biology integration:
Incorporate CYP28 antibody-derived data into mathematical models
Predict system-level responses to environmental perturbations
Identify leverage points for photosynthetic optimization
Present network analyses showing CYP28's position in photosynthetic regulatory networks
These research directions build upon the established role of CYP28 in photosystem II and LHC II supercomplex assembly , extending to applications in agricultural and environmental research.
The following protocol is recommended for immunoprecipitation of CYP28 protein complexes from plant tissues:
Reagents and Materials:
Anti-CYP28 antibody
Protein A/G magnetic beads
Extraction buffer: 50 mM Tris-HCl pH 7.5, 150 mM NaCl, 1% NP-40, 0.5% sodium deoxycholate, protease inhibitor cocktail
Wash buffer: 50 mM Tris-HCl pH 7.5, 150 mM NaCl, 0.1% NP-40
Elution buffer: 0.1 M glycine pH 2.5
Procedure:
Sample preparation:
Homogenize 1 g fresh plant tissue in 3 ml ice-cold extraction buffer
Centrifuge at 14,000 × g for 15 minutes at 4°C
Transfer supernatant to new tube and measure protein concentration
Pre-clearing:
Add 50 μl Protein A/G beads to 1 mg protein extract
Incubate with gentle rotation for 1 hour at 4°C
Remove beads by magnetic separation
Antibody binding:
Add 5 μg anti-CYP28 antibody to pre-cleared lysate
Incubate overnight with gentle rotation at 4°C
Add 50 μl fresh Protein A/G beads
Incubate for 3 hours at 4°C
Washing:
Collect beads using magnetic stand
Wash 5 times with 1 ml wash buffer
Perform final wash with PBS to remove detergent
Elution:
Add 50 μl elution buffer to beads
Incubate for 5 minutes at room temperature
Collect eluate and neutralize with 5 μl 1M Tris-HCl pH 8.0
For complex analysis, elute by adding SDS sample buffer and heating at 95°C for 5 minutes
Analysis:
Analyze eluted proteins by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting
For interactome studies, submit samples for mass spectrometry analysis
This protocol integrates principles used for immunoprecipitation of other CYP family proteins , adapted for plant tissue samples and CYP28 analysis.
To ensure consistent and reliable results with CYP28 antibodies, researchers should implement these quality control metrics:
Antibody Validation Metrics:
| Quality Control Parameter | Acceptance Criteria | Methodology |
|---|---|---|
| Specificity | Single band at expected MW in Western blot | Western blot against recombinant CYP28 and plant extract |
| Sensitivity | Detection limit ≤ 10 ng protein | Serial dilution of recombinant protein |
| Lot-to-lot consistency | < 20% variation in signal intensity | Western blot comparison between antibody lots |
| Cross-reactivity | < 10% signal with related proteins | Testing against recombinant related cyclophilins |
| Background signal | Signal:noise ratio > 10:1 | Western blot of negative control samples |
| Reproducibility | CV < 15% between technical replicates | Repeated Western blots of identical samples |
Application-Specific Quality Controls:
For Western blotting:
Include positive control (recombinant CYP28) on each blot
Include negative control (non-plant extract) on each blot
Verify expected molecular weight with precision standards
For immunoprecipitation:
Perform IgG control precipitation in parallel
Verify enrichment by comparing input vs. IP by Western blot
Calculate enrichment factor (IP signal/input signal ratio)
For immunohistochemistry:
Include secondary-only control
Perform peptide competition control
Validate specificity with tissue known to lack CYP28
These quality control metrics ensure robust and reproducible results when working with CYP28 antibodies in various experimental contexts, similar to validation approaches used for other antibodies in research settings .
For effective use of CYP28 antibodies in multi-species comparative studies, researchers should implement this methodological framework:
Epitope conservation analysis:
Perform sequence alignment of CYP28 across target species
Identify percent identity in antibody epitope region
Predict cross-reactivity based on epitope conservation
Consider developing consensus peptide antibodies for broad species coverage
Validation across species:
Test antibody against recombinant CYP28 from multiple species
Validate on tissue samples from each target species
Determine optimal working dilutions for each species
Document cross-reactivity patterns in a species compatibility matrix
Standardization strategies:
Normalize loading using highly conserved housekeeping proteins
Include recombinant CYP28 standard curve on each blot
Process all species samples simultaneously with identical protocols
Use automated analysis software to quantify signals objectively
Data normalization approaches:
Calculate relative expression ratios rather than absolute values
Normalize to total protein content (validated by stain-free gels)
Use multiple reference proteins for normalization
Present data with appropriate statistical analysis of species differences
Technical considerations:
Optimize extraction buffers for each species' tissue composition
Adjust antibody concentrations based on expected protein abundance
Consider evolutionary distance when interpreting signal differences
Document all species-specific protocol modifications
This comprehensive approach enables reliable cross-species comparisons using CYP28 antibodies, similar to comparative methodologies used for studying cytochrome P450 enzymes across different tissue types .
Designing robust experiments with CYP28 antibodies requires careful attention to several critical factors that impact experimental validity and reproducibility:
These integrated considerations ensure that experiments using CYP28 antibodies produce reliable, reproducible results that advance our understanding of photosystem assembly and function.
Emerging technologies offer significant potential to expand the utility and impact of CYP28 antibody-based research in plant biology:
Single-cell proteomics combined with CYP28 antibodies could reveal cell-type specific expression patterns within heterogeneous plant tissues, providing unprecedented resolution of CYP28 distribution in relation to cellular specialization and photosynthetic capacity. This approach would enable mapping of CYP28 expression across different cell types within the same leaf.
Microfluidic immunoassays may dramatically reduce the sample size requirements for CYP28 detection, enabling analysis from limited material such as single leaves or specific tissue regions. This would facilitate high-throughput screening of multiple genetic variants or environmental conditions with minimal sample consumption.
Nanobody development against CYP28 could overcome limitations of conventional antibodies, offering smaller probes with superior tissue penetration for in vivo imaging and potentially enabling live-cell visualization of CYP28 dynamics during photosystem assembly processes .
CRISPR-based tagging of endogenous CYP28 combined with antibody detection could provide correlative data on both localization and function, enabling researchers to connect molecular mechanisms to physiological outcomes in unmodified plants.
Machine learning analysis of immunolocalization data could identify subtle patterns in CYP28 distribution that correlate with photosynthetic efficiency metrics, potentially revealing previously unrecognized functional relationships.