The DNAH7 antibody targets the axonemal dynein heavy chain 7 (DNAH7), a motor protein critical for the movement of cilia and flagella . The biotin conjugate comprises a rabbit polyclonal antibody chemically linked to biotin, facilitating its use in assays requiring streptavidin binding .
Immunogen: Synthetic peptide derived from human DNAH7 (amino acids 730–903 or 2301–2400) .
Host Species: Rabbit.
Reactivity: Primarily human, with predicted cross-reactivity in mouse, rat, dog, and other mammals .
Biotin is covalently attached to the antibody via amine-reactive biotinylation reagents (e.g., NHS-PEG4-biotin) . This modification preserves antibody specificity while enabling high-affinity binding to streptavidin (K<sub>D</sub> = 10<sup>−14</sup>–10<sup>−15</sup> M) .
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Localizes DNAH7 in paraffin-embedded or frozen tissues (1:50–1:500 dilution) .
Immunofluorescence (IF): Visualizes ciliary DNAH7 in cultured cells .
Signal Amplification: Streptavidin-HRP or streptavidin-fluorophore complexes enhance sensitivity .
Versatility: Compatible with multiple detection platforms (e.g., fluorescence, chemiluminescence) .
Cancer Research: DNAH7 mutations correlate with improved response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in colorectal cancer, suggesting a role in tumor-immune interactions .
Ciliary Dysfunction: DNAH7 mutations are linked to primary ciliary dyskinesia and basal ganglia disorders .
DNA-Antibody Conjugates: Biotinylated antibodies enable proximity ligation assays (PLA) and super-resolution imaging (e.g., DNA-PAINT) .
Biotin Interference: Endogenous biotin in tissues may necessitate blocking steps to reduce background noise .
DNAH7 Antibody, Biotin conjugated, is a force-generating protein of respiratory cilia. It produces force towards the minus ends of microtubules and possesses ATPase activity. The power stroke is believed to occur upon ADP release.
Relevant Research:
DNAH7 (Dynein, Axonemal, Heavy Chain 7) is an axonemal dynein protein crucial for ciliary and flagellar motility in eukaryotic cells. This protein belongs to the dynein heavy chain family, which forms the inner and outer dynein arms that power microtubule sliding in cilia and flagella. DNAH7 is particularly important in studying ciliopathies, male infertility conditions, and respiratory disorders involving ciliary dysfunction .
The detection of DNAH7 using specific antibodies allows researchers to:
Localize the protein in tissues with ciliated epithelium (e.g., fallopian tubes, respiratory tract)
Study protein expression patterns in normal vs. pathological conditions
Investigate protein-protein interactions within the axonemal complex
Analyze the consequences of DNAH7 mutations or downregulation
Biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibodies offer several methodological advantages compared to their unconjugated counterparts:
| Feature | Biotin-Conjugated DNAH7 Antibody | Unconjugated DNAH7 Antibody |
|---|---|---|
| Detection system | Streptavidin-based (high affinity) | Requires secondary antibody |
| Signal amplification | Enhanced through biotin-streptavidin binding | Limited to secondary antibody binding |
| Multiplexing capability | Compatible with multiple detection systems | May have species cross-reactivity issues |
| Applications | Optimized for ELISA, potentially useful for other applications | Broader application range (ELISA, ICC, IF, IHC, WB) |
| Epitope binding | Specific to AA 730-903 region of DNAH7 | Varies by product (e.g., AA 2301-2400 or AA 730-903) |
| Storage requirements | -20°C to -80°C, avoid repeated freeze-thaw | Similar storage conditions |
The biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody (e.g., ABIN7150878) contains covalently attached biotin molecules that bind with high affinity to streptavidin or avidin detection systems, eliminating the need for species-specific secondary antibodies .
Validated Applications:
Potential Applications (requiring optimization):
Immunohistochemistry: May be suitable using streptavidin-HRP or streptavidin-fluorophore detection
Flow cytometry: For detection of intracellular DNAH7
Immunoprecipitation: Using streptavidin beads for pull-down assays
ChIP assays: When studying transcription factors associated with DNAH7 expression
Note that while unconjugated DNAH7 antibodies have been validated for multiple applications including ICC, IF, IHC, and Western blot , the biotin-conjugated version specifically requires validation for these applications in your experimental system.
Proper storage and handling of biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibodies is critical for maintaining their functionality:
Storage Conditions:
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles as this can damage the antibody and reduce performance
Aliquot the stock solution into smaller volumes before freezing to minimize freeze-thaw cycles
Handling Recommendations:
When working with the antibody, keep it on ice or at 4°C
Return to storage promptly after use
The antibody is supplied in a buffer containing 50% glycerol, 0.01M PBS (pH 7.4), and 0.03% Proclin 300 preservative
Note the safety precaution: The product contains Proclin, which is classified as a poisonous and hazardous substance requiring handling by trained staff only
Working Solution Preparation:
Dilute only the amount needed for immediate use
Use sterile, protein-free buffers for dilution
Prepare fresh working solutions for each experiment
When utilizing biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibodies in streptavidin-based detection systems, researchers should implement the following optimization strategies:
Blocking Endogenous Biotin:
Pre-block endogenous biotin in samples using an avidin/biotin blocking kit
Use tissues fixed in aldehyde-based fixatives rather than Bouin's solution (which preserves endogenous biotin)
Implement a 15-30 minute blocking step with unconjugated avidin followed by d-biotin
Titration Optimization:
Perform a detailed titration series (e.g., 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, 1:500, 1:1000)
Assess signal-to-noise ratio at each dilution
Select the dilution providing maximum specific signal with minimal background
Detection System Selection:
| Detection System | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Streptavidin-HRP | High sensitivity for chromogenic detection | May require signal amplification for low-abundance targets |
| Streptavidin-AP | Lower background in tissues with endogenous peroxidase | Substrate stability considerations |
| Fluorophore-conjugated streptavidin | Multiplexing capability | Photobleaching concerns, autofluorescence |
| Quantum dot-conjugated streptavidin | Photostability, narrow emission spectra | Cost, specialized equipment requirements |
The optimal working dilution should be determined empirically for each experimental system and application .
Validating antibody specificity is critical for ensuring reliable results. For biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibodies, implement these validation approaches:
Essential Validation Methods:
Peptide Competition Assay:
Genetic Models:
Multi-antibody Validation:
Appropriate Controls:
Western Blot:
Confirm the antibody detects a protein of the expected molecular weight (~461 kDa for full-length DNAH7)
Multiple bands may indicate degradation products or alternative splice variants
Successfully validated antibodies should show consistent patterns across multiple detection methods and model systems.
While the biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody has not been explicitly validated for immunohistochemistry, related DNAH7 antibodies provide guidance on optimal antigen retrieval methods:
Heat-Induced Epitope Retrieval (HIER) Methods:
Enzymatic Retrieval Methods (Alternative Approach):
Proteinase K (10-20 μg/mL, 10-15 minutes at room temperature)
May preserve tissue morphology better but potentially lower sensitivity
For paraffin-embedded sections, HIER with pH 6.0 citrate buffer is the recommended starting point for DNAH7 detection . After retrieval, implement a streptavidin-biotin blocking step to minimize endogenous biotin interference prior to antibody application.
Fixation methods significantly impact epitope integrity and accessibility for DNAH7 antibodies. The following table summarizes the effects of common fixatives:
| Fixation Method | Impact on DNAH7 Epitope AA 730-903 | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| 10% Neutral Buffered Formalin | Standard fixative; creates cross-links that may mask epitopes | Fix 24-48 hours; extend antigen retrieval time |
| 4% Paraformaldehyde | Milder cross-linking; better epitope preservation | Preferred for immunofluorescence; 4-24 hour fixation |
| Methanol/Acetone | Precipitates proteins; may alter conformational epitopes | Not recommended for DNAH7 detection |
| Bouin's Fixative | Strong fixative with picric acid; may interfere with biotin detection | Avoid for biotin-conjugated antibodies |
| Glutaraldehyde | Strong cross-linker; significant epitope masking | Not recommended for immunodetection of DNAH7 |
For cultured cells expressing DNAH7:
Fix with 4% paraformaldehyde (10-15 minutes at room temperature)
Perform mild permeabilization (0.1-0.3% Triton X-100, 5-10 minutes)
Implement thorough blocking of non-specific binding sites
For FFPE tissue sections, limit fixation time to 24-48 hours and implement appropriate antigen retrieval methods to maximize epitope accessibility while maintaining tissue morphology.
When working with biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibodies, researchers may encounter several technical challenges. The following troubleshooting guide addresses common issues:
High Background Signal:
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Non-specific binding | Insufficient blocking | Extend blocking time; use 2-5% BSA or 5-10% normal serum |
| Endogenous biotin | Biotin-rich tissues (liver, kidney, brain) | Implement avidin-biotin blocking kit before antibody incubation |
| Endogenous enzymes | Peroxidase or phosphatase activity | Use appropriate quenching steps (3% H₂O₂ for HRP, levamisole for AP) |
| Excessive antibody concentration | Too concentrated antibody solution | Perform titration series to determine optimal dilution |
| Cross-reactivity | Antibody binding to related proteins | Validate with peptide competition assay |
Weak or Absent Signal:
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Epitope masking | Overfixation | Optimize fixation time; enhance antigen retrieval |
| Low target abundance | DNAH7 expression level | Use signal amplification methods (e.g., tyramide signal amplification) |
| Antibody degradation | Improper storage or handling | Aliquot antibody; avoid freeze-thaw cycles |
| Insufficient incubation | Short antibody incubation time | Extend primary antibody incubation (overnight at 4°C) |
| Detection system issues | Streptavidin degradation | Use fresh detection reagents; optimize concentrations |
Inconsistent Results:
Standardize all protocol steps (fixation, antigen retrieval, incubation times)
Prepare consistent antibody dilutions from master stocks
Include appropriate positive and negative controls in each experiment
Document all experimental conditions thoroughly
When troubleshooting, change only one variable at a time and maintain appropriate controls to identify the source of the issue.
While the biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody is primarily validated for ELISA , the following protocol provides a foundation for adapting it to chromogenic immunohistochemistry:
Sample Preparation and Deparaffinization:
Section FFPE tissues at 4-5 μm thickness
Deparaffinize with xylene (3 × 5 minutes)
Rehydrate through graded alcohols (100%, 95%, 70%, 50%) to water
Antigen Retrieval:
Allow sections to cool in buffer for 20 minutes
Wash in PBS or TBS (3 × 5 minutes)
Endogenous Blocking:
Block endogenous peroxidase (3% H₂O₂, 10 minutes)
Block endogenous biotin using avidin/biotin blocking kit
Perform protein blocking (2-5% BSA or normal serum, 30-60 minutes)
Antibody Incubation:
Apply biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody at optimized dilution (start with 1:50-1:200)
Incubate overnight at 4°C in a humidified chamber
Wash thoroughly in PBS or TBS (3 × 5 minutes)
Detection:
Apply streptavidin-HRP conjugate (1:100-1:500 dilution)
Incubate for 30-60 minutes at room temperature
Wash thoroughly (3 × 5 minutes)
Develop with DAB or other appropriate substrate
Counterstain with hematoxylin, dehydrate, and mount
Controls to Include:
Positive control (human fallopian tube tissue showing ciliated epithelium)
Negative control (omission of primary antibody)
Peptide competition control
The working dilution should be empirically determined through titration experiments for optimal signal-to-noise ratio .
Dual immunofluorescence using biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibodies requires careful planning and optimization:
Protocol Optimization Strategies:
Sequential vs. Simultaneous Approach:
Sequential: Apply and detect biotin-DNAH7 antibody first, followed by the second primary antibody
Simultaneous: Apply both primary antibodies together, then detect sequentially
Recommendation: Sequential approach minimizes cross-reactivity issues
Fluorophore Selection:
Choose spectrally distinct fluorophores (minimal overlap)
Consider tissue autofluorescence characteristics
Recommended combination: Streptavidin-Alexa Fluor 488 for DNAH7 with red-emitting fluorophore for second target
Validation Controls:
Single-label controls for each antibody
Secondary-only controls
Absorption controls with immunizing peptides
Cross-reactivity controls to ensure detection systems don't interact
Successful dual immunofluorescence will allow co-localization analysis of DNAH7 with other proteins of interest in ciliated tissues or cells.
Detecting low-abundance DNAH7 expression requires enhanced sensitivity approaches:
Signal Amplification Methods:
| Method | Protocol Overview | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tyramide Signal Amplification (TSA) | 1. Apply biotin-DNAH7 antibody 2. Add streptavidin-HRP 3. Apply tyramide-fluorophore 4. HRP catalyzes tyramide deposition | 10-50× signal enhancement | Potential background increase |
| Polymer-based detection | 1. Apply biotin-DNAH7 antibody 2. Add streptavidin-polymer-HRP conjugate 3. Develop with substrate | Improved sensitivity over standard methods | Less amplification than TSA |
| Rolling Circle Amplification | 1. Apply biotin-DNAH7 antibody 2. Add streptavidin-DNA primer 3. Perform RCA 4. Detect with labeled probes | 100-1000× signal enhancement | Complex protocol, specialized reagents |
Protocol Modifications:
Extended Incubation Times:
Increase primary antibody incubation to 48-72 hours at 4°C
Use humidified chambers to prevent drying
Optimized Buffer Compositions:
Add 0.1% Triton X-100 to enhance tissue penetration
Include 5% polyethylene glycol as an enhancing agent
Sample Preparation Considerations:
Use thinner sections (3-4 μm) for improved antibody penetration
Consider non-formalin fixatives that better preserve epitopes
Microscopy Optimization:
Use high-NA objectives and sensitive detection systems
Implement image acquisition with extended exposure times
Apply deconvolution algorithms to improve signal-to-noise ratio
These approaches should be implemented systematically, with appropriate controls at each step to distinguish specific signal from amplified background.
While the biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody has not been specifically validated for Western blot, comparative analysis with unconjugated DNAH7 antibodies provides insights:
Comparative Analysis for Western Blot Applications:
| Parameter | Biotin-Conjugated DNAH7 Antibody | Unconjugated DNAH7 Antibody |
|---|---|---|
| Detection system | Streptavidin-HRP | Species-specific secondary antibody-HRP |
| Sample preparation | Standard protocols; consider phosphatase inhibitors | Similar preparation methods |
| Protein transfer | Standard transfer protocols for high molecular weight proteins (461 kDa) | Same considerations |
| Expected band size | Full-length DNAH7: ~461 kDa Potential splice variants: variable | Same band pattern expected |
| Signal amplification | Enhanced through biotin-streptavidin interaction | Dependent on secondary antibody quality |
| Non-specific binding | May detect biotinylated proteins | May cross-react with other proteins |
| Blocking recommendation | 5% BSA or milk with avidin supplement | Standard 5% BSA or milk |
Protocol Adaptations for Biotin-Conjugated Antibody:
Include avidin in blocking buffer to sequester endogenous biotin
Use streptavidin-HRP at 1:1000-1:5000 dilution
Consider extended exposure times for detection of low-abundance DNAH7
Include positive control lysates from tissues known to express DNAH7 (testis)
Western blot detection of DNAH7 has been successfully demonstrated using unconjugated antibodies in mouse testis extracts, showing downregulation in Zmynd10-/- mice .
Investigating DNAH7's functional role in ciliary motility requires integrated experimental approaches:
Immunolocalization Studies:
Use biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody to localize the protein within axonemal structures
Co-localize with markers of outer dynein arms (e.g., DNAH5) and inner dynein arms (e.g., DNAH1)
Compare localization in normal vs. pathological samples (e.g., primary ciliary dyskinesia)
Interaction Studies:
Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA):
Combine biotin-DNAH7 antibody with antibodies against potential interacting proteins
Use streptavidin and appropriate secondary antibodies conjugated to PLA probes
Fluorescent signals indicate protein-protein proximity (<40 nm)
Co-Immunoprecipitation:
Use streptavidin beads to pull down biotin-DNAH7 antibody complexes
Analyze precipitated proteins by mass spectrometry or Western blot
Validate interactions through reciprocal co-IP experiments
Functional Correlation:
Correlate DNAH7 expression/localization with:
Ciliary beat frequency measurements
High-speed video microscopy of ciliary waveform
Electron microscopy of axonemal ultrastructure
Experimental model systems:
Human respiratory epithelial cells (air-liquid interface cultures)
Sperm flagella
Multiciliated ependymal cells
Knockdown/Knockout Approaches:
Generate DNAH7 knockdown models using siRNA or CRISPR-Cas9
Confirm knockdown efficiency using the biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody
Assess phenotypic consequences on ciliary structure and function
These integrated approaches can establish the specific role of DNAH7 in axonemal dynein arm assembly and ciliary motility.
Validating DNAH7 antibody specificity across species requires systematic cross-reactivity testing:
Cross-Reactivity Analysis Framework:
Sequence Alignment Analysis:
Align the immunogen sequence (human DNAH7 AA 730-903) with DNAH7 orthologs from target species
Calculate percent identity and similarity
Identify conserved epitopes within the immunogenic region
Stepwise Validation Protocol:
Begin with Western blot analysis of lysates from multiple species
Confirm band at expected molecular weight (~461 kDa)
Test immunohistochemistry on ciliated tissues from different species
Compare with species-specific positive controls (e.g., known DNAH7 antibodies)
Knockout/Knockdown Validation:
Test antibody in DNAH7 knockout/knockdown models from different species
Confirm signal reduction/elimination in genetic models
Absorption Controls:
Pre-absorb antibody with recombinant DNAH7 proteins from different species
Test remaining reactivity to determine cross-reactivity specificity
Developmental/Tissue Expression Profiling:
Compare antibody staining patterns with known DNAH7 expression profiles
Consistent with expected ciliated tissue distribution across species
For the biotin-conjugated DNAH7 antibody, although predominantly validated for human samples , evidence suggests it may cross-react with mouse DNAH7 based on reactivity of related antibodies .
Researchers must be vigilant about potential artifacts and implement strategies to ensure accurate interpretation:
Common Artifacts and Mitigation Strategies:
| Artifact Type | Identification Features | Prevention/Mitigation |
|---|---|---|
| Endogenous biotin signal | Widespread staining in biotin-rich tissues | Implement thorough avidin-biotin blocking steps |
| Edge artifacts | Intense staining at tissue edges | Discard edge regions from analysis; improve tissue processing |
| Fixation artifacts | Irregular staining pattern | Standardize fixation protocols; include fixation controls |
| Necrotic tissue staining | Non-specific staining in necrotic areas | Exclude necrotic regions from analysis |
| Nuclear trapping of reagents | Non-specific nuclear staining | Optimize permeabilization; validate with subcellular markers |
Verification Approaches:
Multi-method Confirmation:
Verify DNAH7 expression using alternative methods (RT-qPCR, RNA-seq)
Compare protein localization using antibodies targeting different epitopes
Correlate with known expression patterns from databases (Human Protein Atlas)
Biological Correlation:
Confirm DNAH7 localization in ciliated structures using electron microscopy
Verify expected co-localization with other axonemal components
Demonstrate functional correlations (e.g., altered expression in ciliopathies)
Documentation and Reporting:
Document all experimental conditions thoroughly
Include representative images of positive and negative controls
Report criteria used to distinguish specific from non-specific staining
Disclose image processing methods and parameters