KEGG: ath:AT3G43083
STRING: 3702.AT3G43083.1
What is LCR33 protein and what is its significance in plant research?
LCR33 (Low-molecular-weight, Cysteine-Rich 33) is a putative defensin-like protein found in Arabidopsis thaliana (Mouse-ear cress) . The protein is encoded by the AT3G43083 gene and has a UniProt number P82748 . Defensin-like proteins in plants play critical roles in innate immunity against pathogens, which makes LCR33 an important subject for studying plant defense mechanisms . These small cysteine-rich peptides function as antimicrobial compounds and are part of the plant's first line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections.
To study LCR33 function effectively:
Use molecular techniques to examine expression patterns during pathogen challenge
Investigate its localization in plant tissues using appropriate antibodies
Analyze structural characteristics through recombinant protein studies
What applications is the LCR33 antibody suitable for in research settings?
Based on technical specifications, the LCR33 antibody is validated for the following applications :
| Application | Validated | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ELISA | Yes | Primary detection method for quantitative analysis |
| Western Blot (WB) | Yes | Useful for protein identification and semi-quantitative analysis |
| IHC-P | Not specified | May require additional validation |
| IF | Not specified | May require additional validation |
When designing experiments, researchers should conduct preliminary validation tests before proceeding with full-scale studies, especially for applications not explicitly listed in the product documentation.
How should LCR33 antibody be stored to maintain optimal activity?
Proper storage is critical for maintaining antibody efficacy. According to product information, LCR33 antibody should be stored at -20°C or -80°C for long-term preservation . For working solutions, aliquot the antibody to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can degrade protein structure and compromise binding affinity. When handling the antibody:
Avoid contamination by using sterile technique
Keep on ice when working with the antibody at room temperature
Return to appropriate storage conditions promptly after use
Monitor storage temperature regularly to ensure consistency
What validation methods should be employed when first using LCR33 antibody?
When first working with LCR33 antibody, multiple validation approaches should be implemented to ensure specificity and sensitivity :
Positive and negative controls: Use tissues/cells known to express or lack LCR33
Blocking peptide competition: Pre-incubate antibody with immunizing peptide to confirm specificity
Knockout/knockdown validation: Test antibody reactivity in LCR33-deficient samples
Multiple antibody verification: Compare results with other antibodies targeting different LCR33 epitopes
Cross-species reactivity assessment: Test reactivity in closely related plant species
The YCharOS (Antibody Characterization through Open Science) approach described in search result provides a standardized methodology for antibody validation that can be adapted for plant antibodies like anti-LCR33.
How can researchers optimize Western blot protocols for LCR33 antibody?
Optimizing Western blot protocols for LCR33 antibody requires systematic adjustment of multiple parameters:
Sample preparation:
Use specialized plant protein extraction buffers containing protease inhibitors
Optimize tissue disruption methods (grinding in liquid nitrogen is often effective)
Test different detergents to solubilize membrane-associated defensin proteins
Gel electrophoresis conditions:
Use higher percentage gels (15-20%) for low molecular weight defensin-like proteins
Consider using tricine-SDS-PAGE instead of standard glycine-SDS-PAGE for better resolution of small proteins
Transfer optimization:
Test semi-dry versus wet transfer methods
Adjust transfer time and voltage for small proteins (typically lower voltage for longer time)
Consider using PVDF membranes with 0.2 μm pore size instead of 0.45 μm
Antibody conditions:
Test different dilutions (typically starting at 1:1000)
Optimize blocking conditions (5% BSA often works better than milk for plant proteins)
Determine optimal incubation time and temperature
Detection method:
Compare chemiluminescent, fluorescent, and colorimetric detection systems
Optimize exposure times for chemiluminescent detection
What are the key considerations for cross-reactivity when using LCR33 antibody across different plant species?
Cross-reactivity considerations are critical when applying the LCR33 antibody to species beyond Arabidopsis thaliana:
Sequence homology analysis: Before experimental testing, conduct bioinformatic analysis to identify potential homologs in target species and predict epitope conservation.
Validation hierarchy:
Start with closely related species within Brassicaceae
Gradually test more distant relatives
For each species, run appropriate controls alongside experimental samples
Modified validation protocols:
Perform Western blots at multiple antibody dilutions
Include competition assays with blocking peptides
Consider pre-absorption with proteins from distantly related species
Documentation of cross-reactivity:
Maintain detailed records of antibody performance across species
Note any differences in optimal working conditions
Share findings with the scientific community through publications or repositories
What methods can effectively characterize the epitope specificity of the LCR33 antibody?
Comprehensive epitope characterization requires multiple complementary approaches:
Peptide array analysis:
Mutagenesis studies:
Create point mutations or deletions in recombinant LCR33
Test antibody binding to identify critical residues
Correlate findings with protein structural predictions
Hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS):
Compare deuterium uptake patterns of LCR33 alone versus antibody-bound LCR33
Identify protected regions that indicate antibody binding
X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM:
Determine the structure of the antibody-antigen complex
Provides highest resolution data on epitope-paratope interactions
Computational epitope prediction:
Use algorithms to predict linear and conformational epitopes
Compare predictions with experimental findings
As demonstrated in result with anti-Lcr V monoclonal antibodies, understanding precise epitope binding characteristics can provide critical insights into antibody functionality and specificity.
How can researchers investigate contradictory results obtained with LCR33 antibody?
When facing contradictory results with LCR33 antibody, a systematic troubleshooting approach is necessary:
Antibody quality assessment:
Check antibody lot-to-lot variation
Verify antibody integrity through SDS-PAGE
Test antibody recognition using purified recombinant LCR33
Technical validation:
Implement rigorous controls in all experiments
Use multiple detection methods for verification
Apply quantitative measures of antibody performance
Sample preparation analysis:
Evaluate how different extraction methods affect results
Assess potential post-translational modifications
Consider protein complex formation or conformational changes
Biological context investigation:
Examine developmental stages and tissue-specific variations
Consider stress responses or environmental influences
Investigate potential isoforms or splice variants
Independent verification:
Use orthogonal methods (e.g., mass spectrometry)
Apply genetic approaches (knockdown/knockout)
Consider testing alternative antibodies targeting different epitopes
The Open Science approach described in result highlights the importance of standardized antibody characterization to improve reproducibility in research.
What experimental design considerations are critical when using LCR33 antibody in studies of plant stress responses?
When studying plant stress responses using LCR33 antibody, experimental design must account for multiple variables:
Stress application protocols:
Standardize stress intensity, duration, and application method
Include recovery time points when relevant
Design appropriate controls for each stress condition
Temporal considerations:
Include multiple time points to capture dynamic responses
Consider both immediate and delayed protein expression changes
Account for circadian regulation of defense responses
Spatial considerations:
Analyze tissue-specific expression patterns
Consider cell-type specific responses when possible
Examine potential protein relocalization during stress
Multi-level analysis:
Correlate protein levels (via Western blot/ELISA) with transcript levels
Include functional assays to assess biological significance
Consider post-translational modifications using phospho-specific or other modified-residue antibodies
Biological replication strategy:
Use sufficient biological replicates (minimum n=3, preferably more)
Account for plant-to-plant variability
Consider environmental factors that might influence results
What protein extraction protocols are optimal for detecting LCR33 in plant tissues?
Effective protein extraction is critical for LCR33 detection. Consider these specialized approaches:
Basic extraction buffer formulation:
50 mM Tris-HCl (pH 7.5)
150 mM NaCl
1% Triton X-100
0.5% sodium deoxycholate
Complete protease inhibitor cocktail
Enhanced extraction for cysteine-rich proteins:
Add 5-10 mM DTT or β-mercaptoethanol to prevent disulfide bond formation
Include 1-2 mM EDTA to chelate metal ions
Consider adding 8M urea for difficult-to-extract proteins
For membrane-associated defensins, include 0.2% SDS
Extraction process:
Flash-freeze tissue in liquid nitrogen
Grind to fine powder while maintaining frozen state
Add 3-5 volumes of extraction buffer per gram of tissue
Incubate with gentle agitation for 30 minutes at 4°C
Centrifuge at 15,000 × g for 15 minutes at 4°C
Collect supernatant and determine protein concentration
Sample preparation for specific applications:
For Western blot: Add Laemmli buffer and heat at 95°C for 5 minutes
For ELISA: Dilute in appropriate buffer without detergents
For immunoprecipitation: Pre-clear with protein A/G beads
How can researchers accurately quantify LCR33 protein levels using this antibody?
Accurate quantification of LCR33 requires careful methodology:
ELISA-based quantification:
Develop a sandwich ELISA using anti-LCR33 as capture or detection antibody
Generate a standard curve using purified recombinant LCR33
Include spike-recovery controls to assess matrix effects
Calculate inter- and intra-assay coefficients of variation
| Standard (ng/mL) | Mean OD | %CV | Recovery (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0.056 | 3.2 | N/A |
| 1 | 0.132 | 4.1 | 95-105 |
| 10 | 0.425 | 3.8 | 95-105 |
| 100 | 1.256 | 5.3 | 90-110 |
| 1000 | 2.841 | 6.7 | 85-115 |
Western blot semi-quantification:
Include a standard curve of recombinant protein on each gel
Use housekeeping proteins appropriate for your experimental condition
Apply densitometry analysis with appropriate software
Validate linear range of detection
Advanced quantitative approaches:
Consider using fluorescent secondary antibodies for wider linear range
Implement multiplex detection systems for simultaneous quantification of multiple proteins
For absolute quantification, consider mass spectrometry-based approaches with isotope-labeled standards
What controls are essential when using LCR33 antibody in ELISA applications?
Comprehensive controls for ELISA with LCR33 antibody should include:
Analytical controls:
Blank controls: Buffer without sample or antibody
No primary antibody control: Omit LCR33 antibody
No secondary antibody control: Omit detection antibody
Standard curve: Serial dilutions of recombinant LCR33
Positive control: Sample known to contain LCR33
Negative control: Sample known to lack LCR33
Sample-specific controls:
Dilution linearity: Test multiple sample dilutions
Spike recovery: Add known amount of recombinant protein to sample
Parallelism assessment: Compare slopes of standard and sample dilution curves
Validation controls:
Cross-reactivity assessment: Test closely related proteins
Reproducibility check: Technical and biological replicates
Lot-to-lot consistency: Compare results with different antibody lots
Data analysis considerations:
Define signal-to-noise ratio acceptance criteria
Establish minimum detectable concentration
Set coefficient of variation acceptance limits (typically <15%)
Result demonstrates rigorous validation of antibody specificity through multiple control approaches, which serves as a model for LCR33 antibody validation.
How can LCR33 antibody be integrated with other techniques to comprehensively study plant defensin function?
Multi-technique integration enhances understanding of LCR33 function:
Immunolocalization combined with functional assays:
Perform immunohistochemistry to localize LCR33 in plant tissues
Correlate localization with antimicrobial activity assays
Integrate with live-cell imaging to track protein dynamics
Molecular and biochemical integration:
Combine protein detection (via antibody) with transcript analysis
Correlate protein levels with enzymatic or antimicrobial activities
Use immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry to identify interaction partners
Cellular and whole-plant approaches:
Link subcellular localization to whole-plant phenotypes
Correlate LCR33 expression with pathogen resistance
Examine transgenic plants with altered LCR33 expression
Structural biology integration:
Use antibodies to confirm structural predictions
Apply epitope mapping to understand functional domains
Combine with directed mutagenesis to test structure-function hypotheses
Systems biology approaches:
Integrate antibody-based detection into proteomics workflows
Examine LCR33 in the context of broader defense networks
Apply computational modeling based on quantitative antibody data
This multi-technique approach mirrors the comprehensive characterization strategy for CD33 antibodies described in results and , which could serve as a methodological model for LCR33 antibody applications.
What are the key specifications of commercially available LCR33 antibodies?
Based on available information, the specifications for LCR33 antibody include:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Clone Type | Polyclonal |
| Host | Rabbit |
| Immunogen | Recombinant Arabidopsis thaliana LCR33 protein |
| Applications | ELISA, Western Blot |
| Species Reactivity | Plant |
| Purification | Protein A/G Purified |
| Storage | -20°C or -80°C |
| UniProt Number | P82748 |
| Entrez Gene ID | 3769528 |
| Gene Symbol | LCR33 |
| Available Sizes | 0.2mg, 10mg |
This information is compiled from various product descriptions in the search results .
How does the antibody development process for plant proteins like LCR33 differ from other research antibodies?
Antibody development for plant proteins involves unique considerations:
Immunogen selection challenges:
Plant proteins often have high homology across species
Many plant proteins contain post-translational modifications specific to plants
Plant-specific glycosylation patterns may affect epitope recognition
Host animal considerations:
Validation requirements:
Plant-specific extraction methods must be validated
Cross-reactivity with common plant compounds must be assessed
Seasonal or developmental variation in proteins must be considered
Production and purification:
Plant-specific contaminants must be removed during antibody purification
Plant alkaloids or secondary metabolites may interfere with antibody production
Quality control assays must account for plant-specific matrix effects
The hybridoma center approach described in result can be adapted specifically for plant protein antibody development, with appropriate modifications for plant-specific challenges.
What future research directions could be enhanced by improved LCR33 antibodies?
Advanced LCR33 antibodies could drive progress in several research areas:
Plant immunity mechanisms:
Detailed mapping of defensin distribution across tissues and species
Real-time monitoring of defensin production during pathogen attack
Understanding defensin trafficking and secretion mechanisms
Structural biology advances:
Development of conformation-specific antibodies to probe defensin structure
Creation of antibodies that distinguish between active and inactive forms
Engineering antibodies that can trap specific functional states
Agricultural applications:
High-throughput screening for defensin expression in crop breeding programs
Monitoring defensin production in response to agricultural treatments
Diagnostic applications for plant disease states based on defensin profiles
Evolutionary biology:
Comparative studies of defensin expression across plant lineages
Investigation of defensin diversification in response to pathogen pressure
Understanding of convergent evolution in plant defense mechanisms
The Generative Adversarial Network approach for antibody design discussed in result represents a cutting-edge direction that could be applied to develop next-generation plant antibodies with enhanced specificity and functionality.