KEGG: ath:AT3G23200
UniGene: At.37747
AT3G23200 is an Arabidopsis thaliana gene that appears in multiple pathways associated with plant immune responses. The gene is part of a network involved in pathogen defense mechanisms, particularly in response to powdery mildew and other plant pathogens . Antibodies targeting the protein encoded by AT3G23200 are essential for studying protein localization, expression levels, and interactions with other cellular components. These antibodies enable researchers to track the protein's involvement in immune signaling cascades and its potential role in vesicle-mediated secretion of defense compounds .
AT3G23200 antibodies are typically utilized in Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence microscopy. For Western blotting, researchers commonly use both primary antibodies (targeting AT3G23200 protein) and secondary antibodies for detection . Immunoprecipitation with AT3G23200 antibodies can help isolate protein complexes involving the target protein, enabling subsequent protein-protein interaction studies. Immunolocalization techniques help determine the subcellular compartmentalization of the protein during pathogen challenge and immune response.
For maintaining antibody integrity, store AT3G23200 antibodies at -20°C for long-term storage and at 4°C for short-term use (1-2 weeks). Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by preparing small aliquots before freezing. Working solutions should be prepared in appropriate buffers, typically PBS with 0.05-0.1% sodium azide as a preservative. When handling antibodies, use clean, nuclease-free tubes and pipette tips to prevent contamination. For immunohistochemistry applications, proper fixation methods must be employed to preserve antigen recognition sites.
Antibody validation requires multiple complementary approaches to ensure specificity for AT3G23200 protein. First, perform Western blot analysis using wild-type plant tissue alongside AT3G23200 knockout or knockdown lines to confirm specific binding. The absence or reduction of signal in mutant lines suggests antibody specificity. Second, preabsorption tests can be conducted by pre-incubating the antibody with purified recombinant AT3G23200 protein before immunostaining; this should eliminate specific signals. Third, immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry can identify whether the antibody pulls down primarily the target protein. These validation steps are essential because non-specific binding can lead to misinterpretation of experimental results in plant immune response studies.
Comprehensive controls are essential for antibody-based experiments. Always include a negative control using secondary antibody alone to identify background signals. For genetic validation, include AT3G23200 knockout or knockdown plant lines. When studying pathogen responses, compare infected versus non-infected tissues to establish baseline expression. If working with transgenic plants overexpressing AT3G23200, these serve as positive controls. For developmental studies, include a time-course sampling to account for expression changes during different growth stages. The proper implementation of these controls helps differentiate between specific signals and experimental artifacts.
AT3G23200 antibodies may cross-react with related proteins in the Arabidopsis proteome. Potential cross-reactivity with proteins involved in immune response pathways is particularly concerning. Cross-reactivity can be assessed through Western blot analysis across different plant species or by testing against recombinant proteins with similar domains. When studying plant-pathogen interactions, consider that some pathogen proteins may share epitopes with plant proteins, leading to false-positive signals . The integration of complementary approaches, such as gene expression analysis alongside protein detection, helps validate antibody specificity in complex experimental systems.
Optimizing immunoblotting for AT3G23200 requires systematic adjustment of multiple parameters. Begin with protein extraction using buffer conditions that preserve protein structure (typically containing protease inhibitors, reducing agents, and appropriate detergents). For membrane transfer, PVDF membranes often provide better results than nitrocellulose for plant proteins. Blocking solutions should be optimized; BSA-based blockers may work better than milk for phosphorylated proteins. Antibody dilution requires empirical testing, but starting concentrations of 1:1000 for primary and 1:5000 for secondary antibodies are common. Incubation temperatures and times significantly impact signal-to-noise ratios; overnight incubation at 4°C with primary antibody often yields cleaner results than shorter incubations at room temperature. Detection methods should be chosen based on expected protein abundance; chemiluminescence offers greater sensitivity for low-abundance proteins like many plant immune factors.
Successful immunoprecipitation depends on antibody affinity, buffer conditions, and experimental design. The antibody should have high affinity for native AT3G23200 protein. Buffer composition critically affects results; RIPA buffers may disrupt protein-protein interactions while gentler NP-40 or Triton X-100 based buffers better preserve complexes. Pre-clearing lysates with protein A/G beads reduces non-specific binding. For studying transient interactions, chemical crosslinking before cell lysis may be necessary. The amount of antibody requires optimization; excess antibody can increase background while insufficient amounts reduce yield. For plant tissues, effective cell disruption methods must be employed to ensure complete protein extraction before immunoprecipitation. Control immunoprecipitations using non-specific IgG help distinguish between specific and non-specific interactions.
Immunolocalization optimization begins with fixation method selection; paraformaldehyde preserves most epitopes while maintaining cellular architecture. Tissue permeabilization conditions must balance accessibility with structural preservation. For plant tissues with cell walls, enzymatic digestion may be necessary. Antigen retrieval techniques (heat-induced or enzymatic) can restore epitope recognition after fixation. Background fluorescence in plant tissues can be reduced using Sudan Black B treatment. When studying subcellular localization, co-staining with organelle markers provides spatial context. Z-stack imaging with deconvolution improves resolution of three-dimensional structures. For quantitative analysis, consistent imaging parameters must be maintained across samples. Comparative analysis with fluorescent protein fusion constructs can validate antibody-based localization patterns.
Quantitative Western blot analysis requires careful normalization and statistical validation. Use loading controls appropriate for your experimental conditions; housekeeping proteins like actin or tubulin are common, but their expression may change under stress conditions relevant to immunity studies. Densitometric analysis should use non-saturated images with linear dynamic range. Software packages like ImageJ can quantify band intensity, but consistent background subtraction methods must be applied. Biological replicates (n≥3) and technical replicates improve statistical validity. When comparing multiple conditions, consider using internal calibration curves with known quantities of recombinant protein. For time-course experiments, normalization to baseline expression facilitates interpretation of relative changes. Statistical analysis should account for non-normal distributions often encountered in protein expression data.
Discrepancies between protein and mRNA levels are common in biological systems and require systematic investigation. First, verify antibody specificity as previously described. Consider post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms, including miRNA targeting, which may explain low protein levels despite high mRNA expression. Examine protein stability through cycloheximide chase experiments. For rapidly changing systems like immune responses, temporal dynamics may explain discrepancies; protein accumulation typically lags behind transcriptional changes. Alternative splicing can produce protein isoforms not recognized by your antibody. Subcellular compartmentalization may affect extraction efficiency for protein versus RNA analysis. Integrating approaches like polysome profiling can reveal translational regulation. When these factors are considered together, apparent contradictions often reveal interesting biological regulatory mechanisms rather than technical artifacts.
Identifying genuine protein interactors requires stringent analysis beyond simple detection. Compare immunoprecipitation results with those obtained using non-specific IgG controls to eliminate common contaminants. Reciprocal co-immunoprecipitation (pulling down with antibodies against the suspected interactor) provides stronger evidence for interaction. Stable interactions persist under higher stringency washing conditions. The biological relevance of interactions can be assessed through in silico analysis of protein domains and published interaction networks. Validation through independent methods like yeast two-hybrid assays or bimolecular fluorescence complementation provides additional confidence. Based on existing plant pathogen interaction networks, AT3G23200 protein may interact with components involved in vesicle trafficking and secretion during immune responses . Quantitative mass spectrometry approaches like SILAC can distinguish between enriched interactors and background proteins.
Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) with AT3G23200 antibodies requires specialized optimization for plant tissues. Chromatin crosslinking efficiency in plants differs from animal systems due to cell wall interference; vacuum infiltration with formaldehyde improves results. Sonication parameters must be optimized for plant chromatin; typically, longer sonication times are needed. The antibody must recognize the crosslinked form of AT3G23200; testing via Western blot on crosslinked samples confirms this capability. Plant tissues contain polyphenols and polysaccharides that can interfere with immunoprecipitation; PVPP (polyvinylpolypyrrolidone) addition to extraction buffers reduces these contaminants. For sequencing library preparation, input normalization and spike-in controls improve quantitative accuracy. Peak calling algorithms should be selected based on expected binding patterns (narrow or broad peaks). Integration with transcriptomic data and motif analysis strengthens functional interpretation of binding sites.
Post-translational modification (PTM) detection presents unique challenges requiring specialized approaches. Phosphorylation, a common regulatory modification in immune signaling, may require phosphatase inhibitors during extraction and phospho-specific antibodies for detection. Alternative enrichment strategies include phospho-protein purification before immunoprecipitation with AT3G23200 antibodies. For ubiquitination studies, proteasome inhibitors (MG132) preserve modified forms, while denaturing conditions during lysis disrupt deubiquitinating enzymes. Mass spectrometry remains the gold standard for comprehensive PTM mapping; immunoprecipitation with AT3G23200 antibodies followed by mass spectrometry identifies modification sites. Targeted analysis using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) can quantify specific modified peptides. Functional validation of PTMs can be achieved through site-directed mutagenesis of modification sites followed by phenotypic analysis in transgenic plants. Integration of these approaches provides a comprehensive view of AT3G23200 regulation through PTMs during immune responses.
Network analysis during infection requires dynamic, systems-level approaches. Proximity-based labeling methods like BioID or APEX, combined with AT3G23200 antibodies for validation, can map interaction networks in living cells. Quantitative co-immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry at multiple infection time points reveals dynamic interaction changes. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation validates direct interactions and provides spatial information . Published data indicate AT3G23200 may participate in host-pathogen protein interaction networks involving transcription factors and trafficking components . For temporal resolution, synchronize infection and sample at defined time points. Compare interaction networks across different pathogens (adapted vs. non-adapted) to identify conserved and pathogen-specific interactions. Integration with transcriptomic and phosphoproteomic data contextualizes interactions within signaling cascades. Network visualization tools help identify interaction hubs and potential therapeutic targets.
When facing weak signals, systematic troubleshooting targets multiple potential issues. First, verify protein expression under your experimental conditions; stress or developmental factors may alter AT3G23200 expression. For extraction, optimize buffer composition and mechanical disruption methods specific to plant tissues. Fresh antibodies may resolve degradation issues. Increase antibody concentration incrementally, but beware that excessive concentrations can increase background. Extended incubation times at 4°C often improve signal without proportionally increasing background. For Western blots, transfer efficiency can be verified with reversible total protein stains. Enhanced chemiluminescence substrates with longer activation times improve detection of low-abundance proteins. If these approaches fail, consider antibody affinity purification to enrich specific immunoglobulins. For immunohistochemistry, antigen retrieval methods (heat-induced or enzymatic) can restore epitope accessibility after fixation.
High background demands multifaceted intervention strategies. Plant tissues present unique challenges due to autofluorescence from chlorophyll, phenolic compounds, and cell walls. Pretreatment with sodium borohydride reduces aldehyde-induced autofluorescence, while Sudan Black B treatment quenches lipofuscin-like autofluorescence. More extensive blocking (3-5% BSA for 2+ hours) reduces non-specific binding. Detergent concentration in wash buffers can be increased incrementally to remove weakly bound antibodies. For secondary antibodies, highly cross-adsorbed variants reduce species cross-reactivity. Confocal microscopy with narrow bandpass filters and spectral unmixing algorithms separates signal from autofluorescence. Consider testing alternative fixation methods; methanol fixation sometimes yields lower background than paraformaldehyde for certain epitopes. Sequential double immunolabeling with AT3G23200 antibodies from different host species provides validation through co-localization analysis.
Cross-reactivity challenges require specialized approaches in plants due to gene duplications and conserved protein domains. Peptide competition assays determine whether signals disappear when antibody is pre-incubated with immunizing peptide. Analysis in mutant lines for AT3G23200 and closely related genes distinguishes between specific and cross-reactive signals. Epitope mapping identifies unique regions that could generate more specific antibodies. For closely related proteins, relative molecular weight differences on Western blots may distinguish between homologs. Super-resolution microscopy can reveal distinct subcellular localization patterns of homologous proteins. When designing new antibodies, bioinformatic analysis identifies unique peptide regions with minimal homology to other proteins. Combined approaches using both antibody detection and reporter gene fusions provide complementary evidence for protein expression patterns.
AT3G23200 antibodies have helped elucidate mechanisms of plant immunity through multiple experimental approaches. Immunolocalization studies have demonstrated protein relocalization during pathogen challenge, particularly in the context of non-host resistance to powdery mildew . Co-immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry has identified interactions with components of vesicle trafficking machinery, supporting roles in secretory defense responses . Quantitative Western blotting has revealed expression changes during different phases of infection, correlating with transcriptional reprogramming. These findings collectively suggest AT3G23200 participation in SNARE-dependent secretion pathways that deliver antimicrobial compounds to infection sites. The protein may function in parallel with PEN1/SYP121-dependent pathways in pre-penetration resistance . Through systematic application of antibody-based techniques, researchers have positioned AT3G23200 within the complex network of plant immune signaling components.
Comparative immunological studies across ecotypes have revealed natural variation in AT3G23200 protein expression and modification patterns. Western blot analysis shows quantitative expression differences correlating with pathogen resistance phenotypes in diverse accessions. Immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry has identified ecotype-specific post-translational modifications and protein interactions that may explain functional diversity. When combined with genetic mapping approaches, these protein-level analyses have helped identify regulatory elements controlling AT3G23200 expression. Ecotypes with enhanced resistance to powdery mildew frequently show distinct AT3G23200 localization patterns during infection. These comparative approaches bridge the gap between genotypic variation and phenotypic differences in disease resistance, providing mechanistic insights into natural immunity variation. The integration of antibody-based protein analysis with genomic data has established AT3G23200 as a component of evolving immune responses in plant populations.
Integration studies using AT3G23200 antibodies have positioned this protein within complex signaling networks. Temporal analysis of protein modification states following pathogen recognition reveals coordination with MAPK cascades and calcium signaling. Immunoprecipitation studies show associations with transcription factors implicated in defense gene activation, suggesting direct links to transcriptional reprogramming . Double immunolabeling demonstrates co-localization with vesicle trafficking components during immune responses, supporting roles in secretory defense. AT3G23200 appears to function downstream of pattern recognition receptors but upstream of salicylic acid accumulation based on protein activation timing. Interaction network construction from multiple immunoprecipitation experiments positions AT3G23200 as an intermediate hub connecting perception to response mechanisms . These findings establish the protein as a component of the integrated immune network rather than an isolated factor, highlighting how antibody-based research contributes to systems-level understanding of plant immunity.
Single-cell proteomics represents a frontier in plant immunology research. Adapting mass cytometry (CyTOF) with metal-conjugated AT3G23200 antibodies enables quantitative protein measurement in individual plant cells. Microfluidic systems for plant protoplast isolation preserve cellular identity before antibody labeling. Imaging mass cytometry combines immunodetection with spatial resolution, mapping AT3G23200 distribution across tissue sections with single-cell precision. These approaches reveal cell-type-specific immune responses previously masked in whole-tissue analyses. For example, epidermal cells may show distinct AT3G23200 dynamics compared to mesophyll cells during pathogen challenge. Technical challenges include maintaining protoplast viability, optimizing fixation for single-cell applications, and developing plant-specific computational pipelines for data analysis. Integration with single-cell transcriptomics creates multi-omic profiles of immune cells, revealing regulatory relationships between mRNA and protein levels at unprecedented resolution.
Multiplex imaging technologies enable simultaneous visualization of multiple proteins within the same sample. Cyclic immunofluorescence methods allow sequential imaging of 20+ proteins by repeated rounds of antibody staining, imaging, and signal removal. Mass spectrometry imaging combined with immunodetection provides multiplexed protein visualization with spatial context. Multiplexing AT3G23200 with pattern recognition receptors, signaling kinases, and transcription factors creates comprehensive spatial maps of immune responses. New development in spectral unmixing algorithms enables discrimination between more fluorophores than conventional approaches. Quantum dot-conjugated secondary antibodies with narrow emission spectra increase multiplexing capacity. For plant-specific applications, methods to reduce cell wall autofluorescence improve signal-to-noise ratios. These approaches enable visualization of entire signaling cascades within cellular context, revealing spatial coordination of immune components previously studied in isolation.
Antibody engineering offers promising approaches to overcome detection limitations. Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) derived from AT3G23200 antibodies provide smaller detection molecules with improved tissue penetration. Phage display technology can select high-affinity variants from antibody libraries. Nanobodies (single-domain antibodies) offer exceptional stability and epitope access in complex samples. For detecting modified forms, phospho-specific antibodies can be generated through strategic immunization with phosphopeptides. Recombinant antibody production ensures batch consistency compared to conventional polyclonal sources. Proximity ligation assays using paired antibodies amplify signals for low-abundance interactions through DNA replication. CRISPR-based tagging of endogenous AT3G23200 with epitope tags provides alternative detection strategies when antibody sensitivity is insufficient. The integration of these advanced approaches with conventional antibody applications will significantly enhance detection capabilities for studying AT3G23200's roles in plant immunity.
Method | Advantages | Limitations | Best Applications |
---|---|---|---|
AT3G23200 Antibody | Detects endogenous protein, Shows post-translational modifications, Compatible with fixed tissues | Requires fixation, Variable batch quality, Background issues | Protein quantification, PTM studies, Interaction analysis |
Fluorescent Protein Fusion | Live-cell imaging possible, Consistent detection sensitivity, No secondary detection required | Potential overexpression artifacts, May affect protein function, Limited to transgenic lines | Dynamic localization studies, Protein movement tracking, Developmental analysis |
Transcriptional Reporter | Simple interpretation, Reports promoter activity, Minimal interference with protein function | Misses post-transcriptional regulation, Not informative about protein stability, Indirect measure of protein | Transcriptional regulation studies, Cell-type specific expression, Promoter analysis |
Integrative approaches create comprehensive views of AT3G23200 function by combining antibody techniques with diverse -omics platforms. Immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry links protein interactions to phosphoproteomics, revealing how AT3G23200 integrates into phosphorylation cascades during immune activation. ChIP-seq using AT3G23200 antibodies combined with RNA-seq identifies direct transcriptional targets and their expression changes. Correlation analysis between antibody-detected protein levels and metabolomics data reveals connections to defense compound production. For spatial context, immunohistochemistry results can be mapped to single-cell transcriptome datasets to associate cellular identity with protein expression patterns. Protein interaction networks constructed from co-immunoprecipitation data can be overlaid with genetic interaction networks to identify functional modules. These integrative approaches transition from studying AT3G23200 as an isolated component to understanding its position within the complex systems of plant immunity.
Translational research extends Arabidopsis findings to crop improvement. Cross-reactivity testing of AT3G23200 antibodies against homologous proteins in crop species identifies conserved epitopes. Western blot analysis across diverse crop species reveals evolutionary conservation of protein expression patterns during infection. Immunoprecipitation in crop systems identifies both conserved and species-specific interaction partners. Comparative studies of protein localization between Arabidopsis and crops highlight conserved subcellular targeting mechanisms. When direct antibody cross-reactivity fails, epitope mapping guides development of crop-specific antibodies targeting conserved domains. Antibody-based screens can identify crop varieties with advantageous protein expression patterns for breeding programs. CRISPR-based editing of crop homologs, informed by Arabidopsis studies, can be validated using antibody detection of modified protein products. These translational approaches bridge fundamental discoveries in model systems with applied crop improvement, demonstrating the practical value of basic immunological research using AT3G23200 antibodies.
Future research will leverage AT3G23200 antibodies in several promising directions. Systems-level studies integrating protein interaction networks with genetic networks will position AT3G23200 within the complex architecture of plant immunity. Comparative studies across plant species will reveal evolutionary conservation and divergence of protein function. Single-cell applications will uncover cell-type specificity in immune responses previously masked in whole-tissue analyses. Structural biology approaches combining antibody-based protein purification with cryo-EM may resolve protein complex structures. Translational research applying findings to crop protection represents a high-impact direction, particularly for engineering broad-spectrum disease resistance. Synthetic biology approaches may utilize AT3G23200 as a component in engineered immune circuits. Methodological advances in antibody engineering will continue to improve detection sensitivity and specificity. Together, these directions will deepen our understanding of plant immunity while developing practical applications for agriculture.