DYNC1LI2 (dynein, cytoplasmic 1 light intermediate chain 2) is a non-catalytic subunit of the cytoplasmic dynein 1 complex, a motor protein essential for retrograde transport along microtubules. It plays a critical role in linking dynein to cargo vesicles and adapter proteins, facilitating processes like endolysosomal trafficking, mitochondrial dynamics, and chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) . The DYNC1LI2 antibody is a polyclonal or monoclonal tool used to detect this protein in various cellular compartments, including lysosomes, centrosomes, and the cytosol .
The antibody is widely used to study:
Trafficking defects: In cystinosis, a lysosomal storage disorder, DYNC1LI2 downregulation disrupts endolysosomal transport and CMA. Antibody-based assays confirm its rescue of LAMP2A localization and mitochondrial function .
Autophagy regulation: DYNC1LI2 modulates CMA via interactions with RAB7/RAB11 GTPases, as shown by co-localization studies .
Ciliogenesis and fertility: Its role in ciliary transport and sperm development has been explored using IF and IHC .
Therapeutic potential: Targeting DYNC1LI2 to correct trafficking defects in cystinosis remains under investigation .
Cross-reactivity: Paralogs like DYNC1LI1 may confound results, necessitating specificity controls .
Subcellular localization: Antibody optimization for lysosomal vs. cytosolic compartments is critical .
This antibody has emerged as a pivotal tool in elucidating dynein’s role in cellular homeostasis, offering insights into lysosomal diseases and motor protein biology. Continued refinement of its applications will likely expand its utility in basic and translational research.
DYNC1LI2 (Dynein Cytoplasmic 1 Light Intermediate Chain 2, also known as LIC2) is a non-catalytic accessory component of the cytoplasmic dynein 1 complex. It plays crucial roles in:
Linking dynein to cargo and adapter proteins that regulate dynein function
Facilitating retrograde motility of vesicles and organelles along microtubules
Potentially binding dynein to membranous organelles or chromosomes
The protein is particularly important in vesicular trafficking mechanisms that maintain cellular homeostasis. Recent research has demonstrated that DYNC1LI2 regulates the localization of chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA) receptor LAMP2A, which is essential for proper lysosomal function and cellular homeostasis .
DYNC1LI2 and DYNC1LI1 are paralogs (similar proteins resulting from gene duplication) with distinct functions:
Both are light intermediate chains of cytoplasmic dynein 1
They show different expression patterns and can be differentially regulated in disease states
In cystinosis (a lysosomal storage disorder), DYNC1LI2 is specifically downregulated while DYNC1LI1 expression remains normal
Functionally, DYNC1LI2 reconstitution can rescue certain phenotypes in cystinotic cells, while DYNC1LI1 cannot, suggesting non-redundant functions
This functional differentiation makes it crucial to use specific antibodies that can distinguish between these paralogs in research applications.
For optimal Western blot results with DYNC1LI2 antibodies:
Antibody dilution: Typically 1:500-1:5000, with most manufacturers recommending:
Expected molecular weight: DYNC1LI2 typically appears at:
Sample types validated: Human tissues (brain, placenta), mouse tissues (testis, brain, colon), and cell lines (HEK293, NCI-H460, SK-OV-3)
Sample preparation: Standard SDS-PAGE protocols; no special requirements reported
Detection method: Standard ECL systems are compatible; specific recommendations not provided in available data
Always optimize conditions for your specific experimental system, especially for varying tissue or cell types .
Most manufacturers recommend similar storage conditions for DYNC1LI2 antibodies:
Buffer composition: Typically PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol, pH 7.3
Stability: Most are stable for one year after shipment if properly stored
Aliquoting: While some manufacturers suggest aliquoting is unnecessary for -20°C storage , it's generally good practice to aliquot antibodies to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles which can degrade antibody quality
Handling: Allow antibodies to equilibrate to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation
For specific antibodies, always consult the manufacturer's recommendation as formulations may vary slightly between suppliers.
When validating a new DYNC1LI2 antibody for your research, include these essential controls:
Positive tissue/cell controls:
Negative controls:
Specificity controls:
Method-specific controls:
For IF/ICC: Include cytoskeleton markers to confirm expected subcellular localization
For WB: molecular weight markers and loading controls
This comprehensive validation approach ensures reliable antibody performance across different experimental applications.
DYNC1LI2 antibodies have been instrumental in elucidating vesicular trafficking mechanisms, particularly in disease models like cystinosis:
Co-localization studies: Combine DYNC1LI2 antibodies with markers for:
Live-cell imaging: Use in combination with:
Rescue experiments: Compare trafficking in:
Functional assays: Measure:
These approaches have revealed that DYNC1LI2 is essential for proper vesicular trafficking, and its dysfunction contributes to disease pathology in lysosomal storage disorders .
When facing cross-reactivity or high background with DYNC1LI2 antibodies, implement these research-validated solutions:
Antibody selection strategies:
Choose antibodies raised against unique regions that differentiate DYNC1LI2 from its paralog DYNC1LI1
Monoclonal antibodies (like EPR11230(2)) may offer higher specificity than polyclonals for certain applications
Consider the immunogen used - antibodies generated against recombinant fragments from non-conserved regions tend to show less cross-reactivity
Protocol optimization:
Increase blocking time/concentration (5% BSA or milk is typically effective)
Optimize primary antibody concentration with titration experiments
Increase washing steps duration and number
For IHC, test different antigen retrieval methods (both TE buffer pH 9.0 and citrate buffer pH 6.0 have been used successfully)
Advanced validation approaches:
Perform parallel experiments with DYNC1LI2 knockdown/knockout samples
Use peptide competition assays with the immunizing peptide
Compare results across multiple DYNC1LI2 antibodies targeting different epitopes
Application-specific strategies:
For IF: Pre-absorb secondary antibodies with tissue powder from the species being studied
For WB: Use gradient gels to better separate proteins of similar molecular weight
These strategies help ensure specific detection of DYNC1LI2 and minimize artifacts that could complicate data interpretation.
To investigate DYNC1LI2's interactions within the dynein complex and with cargo proteins:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) approaches:
Proximity labeling techniques:
BioID or APEX2 fusion proteins to identify proximal interactors in living cells
For DYNC1LI2-specific interactions compared to DYNC1LI1, parallel experiments with both proteins are informative
Subcellular fractionation:
Functional interaction studies:
Structural approaches:
Cross-linking mass spectrometry to map interaction interfaces
Cryo-EM to visualize DYNC1LI2 within the dynein complex
These methodologies have revealed that DYNC1LI2 interacts specifically with RAB GTPases and is essential for proper LAMP2A trafficking and chaperone-mediated autophagy .
Researchers frequently observe variation in DYNC1LI2's apparent molecular weight:
Expected variation:
Biological factors explaining differences:
Technical factors:
Gel percentage affecting migration pattern
Buffer systems and running conditions
Sample preparation methods (denaturing conditions, heating time)
Protein standards used for calibration
Verification approaches:
Researchers should be aware of these variations when interpreting Western blot results and include appropriate controls to validate band identity.
To distinguish specific from non-specific staining in DYNC1LI2 immunohistochemistry:
Essential controls:
Tissue-specific considerations:
Optimization strategies:
Antigen retrieval: Both TE buffer (pH 9.0) and citrate buffer (pH 6.0) have been successfully used
Antibody titration: Test multiple dilutions (recommended range: 1:50-1:500)
Blocking optimization: Extend blocking time or use different blocking reagents
Signal amplification systems: Choose appropriate detection method based on expression level
Pattern validation:
Compare subcellular localization with known DYNC1LI2 distribution (cytoplasmic, with enrichment at microtubule-associated structures)
Confirm staining pattern with multiple DYNC1LI2 antibodies targeting different epitopes
These approaches help ensure that the observed staining accurately reflects DYNC1LI2 distribution rather than artifacts.
Studies showing DYNC1LI2 downregulation in disease contexts present both challenges and opportunities for antibody-based research:
Research implications:
DYNC1LI2 is specifically downregulated in cystinosis (a lysosomal storage disorder) while its paralog DYNC1LI1 remains normally expressed
This selective downregulation affects vesicular trafficking, chaperone-mediated autophagy, and cellular homeostasis
DYNC1LI2 reconstitution can rescue these defects, suggesting therapeutic potential
Methodological considerations:
When studying disease models, antibody sensitivity becomes crucial due to reduced target expression
Signal amplification may be necessary for detection in downregulated states
Quantitative approaches (western blot densitometry, quantitative IF) require careful standardization
Higher antibody concentrations may be needed but can increase background
Experimental design strategies:
Include both wild-type and disease model samples for direct comparison
Use multiple detection methods to confirm downregulation (qPCR, western blot, immunofluorescence)
Consider parallel analysis of DYNC1LI1 as an internal control
Employ rescue experiments (DYNC1LI2 reconstitution) to confirm specificity of observed phenotypes
Therapeutic research applications:
This disease-specific downregulation makes DYNC1LI2 antibodies valuable tools for both basic research and therapeutic development in lysosomal storage disorders.
Recent research has established DYNC1LI2's role in regulating chaperone-mediated autophagy, opening new applications for DYNC1LI2 antibodies:
Co-localization studies:
DYNC1LI2 antibodies can be used with CMA receptor LAMP2A antibodies to study their spatial relationship
In cystinotic cells, DYNC1LI2 reconstitution rescues the mislocalization of LAMP2A and restores its colocalization with LAMP1-positive lysosomes
This approach helps visualize trafficking defects in disease models
Functional CMA assays:
After manipulating DYNC1LI2 levels (overexpression, knockdown), CMA activity can be assessed using:
DYNC1LI2 antibodies confirm expression levels in these experimental systems
Therapeutic monitoring:
Mechanistic studies:
These applications highlight the value of DYNC1LI2 antibodies in advancing our understanding of selective autophagy mechanisms.
When investigating DYNC1LI2's involvement in cellular stress responses:
Stress model selection:
Experimental design considerations:
Time course experiments are essential as stress responses are dynamic
Dose-response studies help identify threshold effects
Combined stressors may reveal synergistic roles
Recovery periods after stress removal can demonstrate reversibility
Analytical approaches:
Immunofluorescence: Track DYNC1LI2 redistribution during stress responses
Western blotting: Quantify changes in expression levels and post-translational modifications
Co-immunoprecipitation: Identify stress-specific interaction partners
Live-cell imaging: Monitor dynamic changes in real-time
Validation strategies:
Compare DYNC1LI2 and DYNC1LI1 responses to determine paralog-specific functions
Use DYNC1LI2 knockdown and rescue approaches to confirm specificity
Employ multiple stress inducers to identify common vs. stressor-specific responses
Correlate DYNC1LI2 changes with functional outcomes (cell viability, organelle function)
This research approach has revealed that DYNC1LI2 plays a protective role during cellular stress, with implications for diseases characterized by increased ER stress and oxidative damage.
While DYNC1LI2 is a component of cytoplasmic dynein-1, recent research exploring dynein complexes provides insights for studying ciliopathies:
Dynein complex specificity:
DYNC1LI2 antibodies target cytoplasmic dynein-1 components
For studying ciliopathies, researchers should note the distinction between dynein-1 (cytoplasmic transport) and dynein-2 (intraflagellar transport)
Antibody selection should account for this specificity when studying different dynein complexes
Subunit composition considerations:
Technical challenges:
Limited availability of antibodies for certain dynein-2 subunits has been noted in the literature
When studying related components, validation with multiple approaches becomes crucial
For comprehensive dynein complex studies, combining antibodies targeting different subunits provides more complete information
Experimental design approaches:
Immunoprecipitation with DYNC1LI2 antibodies followed by mass spectrometry can identify associated proteins
Comparative analysis between wild-type samples and ciliopathy models may reveal altered associations
Co-localization studies at the ciliary base can demonstrate functional relationships
These considerations help researchers select appropriate antibodies for studying the specific dynein complexes relevant to their research questions about ciliopathies and intraflagellar transport.
Several technological advances are poised to expand DYNC1LI2 antibody applications:
Advanced imaging approaches:
Super-resolution microscopy techniques (STORM, PALM, SIM) can reveal nanoscale spatial relationships between DYNC1LI2 and other dynein components
Live-cell single-molecule tracking could visualize DYNC1LI2 dynamics during vesicular transport
FRET-based approaches with labeled antibodies or nanobodies could detect protein-protein interactions in real-time
Proteomics integration:
Coupling DYNC1LI2 immunoprecipitation with mass spectrometry for comprehensive interactome analysis
Cross-linking mass spectrometry to map interaction domains within dynein complexes
Thermal proximity coaggregation (TPCA) for detecting protein complex formation under various conditions
Nanobody and recombinant antibody technologies:
Development of DYNC1LI2-specific nanobodies for live-cell applications
Bi-specific antibodies targeting DYNC1LI2 and cargo molecules to study specific interactions
Engineered antibodies with reduced background for improved signal-to-noise ratios
Spatial biology approaches:
Spatial transcriptomics combined with DYNC1LI2 immunostaining to correlate protein localization with gene expression patterns
Multiplexed antibody staining using cyclic immunofluorescence or mass cytometry to analyze DYNC1LI2 in the context of multiple cellular markers
In situ proximity ligation assays to visualize DYNC1LI2 interactions in fixed tissues
These technological advances will enable more detailed studies of DYNC1LI2's dynamic behavior and context-specific functions in healthy and diseased states.
Several critical knowledge gaps about DYNC1LI2 could be addressed using antibody-based approaches:
Cargo specificity mechanisms:
How does DYNC1LI2 differentiate between various cargos?
What molecular determinants govern DYNC1LI2's preference for certain membrane-bound organelles?
How do post-translational modifications of DYNC1LI2 affect cargo selection?
Paralog-specific functions:
Disease-specific alterations:
Beyond cystinosis, how is DYNC1LI2 expression or function altered in other diseases?
Could DYNC1LI2 dysregulation contribute to neurodegenerative disorders given dynein's importance in neurons?
What mechanisms cause DYNC1LI2 downregulation in disease states?
Regulatory mechanisms:
How is DYNC1LI2 expression regulated at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels?
What signaling pathways modulate DYNC1LI2 function?
How do cells balance DYNC1LI1 vs. DYNC1LI2 expression?
Therapeutic potential:
Addressing these questions with well-validated antibodies would significantly advance our understanding of cellular trafficking mechanisms and potentially reveal new therapeutic targets.
For successful immunofluorescence studies with DYNC1LI2 antibodies:
Sample preparation optimization:
Antibody application:
Signal optimization strategies:
Increasing antibody concentration may enhance detection of DYNC1LI2 in cells with low expression
Extended washing steps (4-6 washes of 5-10 minutes each) help reduce background
Using mounting media with anti-fade agents preserves signal during imaging
Co-staining considerations:
Combine DYNC1LI2 staining with microtubule markers to visualize association with cytoskeleton
Co-staining with organelle markers (LAMP1, LAMP2A, RAB7, RAB11) helps visualize DYNC1LI2's role in trafficking
When multiple rabbit antibodies are needed, consider sequential staining with Fab fragments or directly conjugated antibodies
Controls and validation:
Include DYNC1LI2 knockdown cells as negative controls
Compare staining patterns between multiple DYNC1LI2 antibodies
Validate subcellular localization with GFP-tagged DYNC1LI2 in live cells
These optimized protocols have successfully visualized DYNC1LI2 in multiple cell types, including HEK293 cells and proximal tubule epithelial cells .
When choosing between polyclonal and monoclonal DYNC1LI2 antibodies:
Application-specific recommendations:
For Western blotting: Both types perform well; monoclonals offer more consistency but polyclonals may provide stronger signals
For immunofluorescence: Polyclonal antibodies often provide stronger signals in IF applications, but background can be an issue
For immunohistochemistry: Polyclonal antibodies have been more extensively validated for IHC applications of DYNC1LI2
For co-localization studies: Monoclonal antibodies may offer advantages when precise localization is required
For quantitative applications: Monoclonal antibodies provide more consistent results for comparative studies
Select the antibody type that best matches your specific experimental requirements, considering both the technical demands of your application and the biological questions being addressed.
The immunogen used to generate DYNC1LI2 antibodies significantly impacts their performance characteristics:
Common immunogen strategies for DYNC1LI2 antibodies:
Immunogen location affects antibody utility:
N-terminal region antibodies: May detect more isoforms if alternative splicing occurs in C-terminal regions
Central region antibodies: Often target functional domains involved in cargo binding
C-terminal region antibodies: May detect specific post-translational modifications
Comparison of commercially available antibodies:
Performance implications:
Antibodies against conserved regions may cross-react with DYNC1LI1
Antibodies targeting unique regions provide better specificity
Some epitopes may be masked in native protein conformations or complexes
Post-translational modifications near the epitope may affect antibody binding
Selection guidance:
For detecting all forms of DYNC1LI2: Choose antibodies against highly conserved regions
For maximum specificity: Select antibodies against unique regions not shared with DYNC1LI1
For studying protein complexes: Consider whether the epitope might be obscured in the assembled complex
For studying post-translational modifications: Ensure the epitope doesn't contain modification sites
Understanding the immunogen characteristics helps researchers select antibodies most appropriate for their specific research questions and experimental designs.
The reliability of DYNC1LI2 antibodies varies between tissues and cell lines, as supported by the following evidence:
Tissue validation data:
Cell line validation:
Comparative performance:
Antibody performance may vary between tissues and cell lines due to:
Expression level differences (typically higher in neural tissues)
Processing modifications specific to tissues
Background interference levels (often higher in tissues than cell lines)
Validation through multiple approaches:
Western blot detection correlates with mRNA expression levels measured by qPCR
Immunofluorescence patterns match the expected subcellular distribution of dynein components
Decreased immunoreactivity in knockdown/knockout models confirms specificity
Multiple antibodies show consistent expression patterns across tissues and cell lines
Methodological considerations:
This evidence demonstrates that properly validated DYNC1LI2 antibodies reliably detect endogenous protein in both tissues and cell lines, though optimal protocols may differ between these sample types.