The EXPA24 antibody is a specialized immunological tool targeting Expansin-A24 (EXPA24), a member of the α-expansin protein family involved in plant cell wall modification. Expansins facilitate cell wall loosening by disrupting non-covalent bonds between cellulose microfibrils and matrix polysaccharides, critical for growth and stress responses in plants . This antibody is widely used in molecular biology to study EXPA24's role in developmental processes and pathogen interactions.
EXPA24 is a recombinant protein of varying lengths depending on the species:
A conserved N-terminal domain for cellulose binding.
A C-terminal domain with homology to family-45 glycoside hydrolases (lacking enzymatic activity) .
| Species | Length (AA) | Expression Host | Tag | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arabidopsis thaliana | 285 | Yeast | His tag | ELISA, Western Blot |
| Oryza sativa | 278 | Yeast/Mammalian | His tag | Immunohistochemistry |
EXPA24 is implicated in:
Cell elongation: Mediates rapid internodal growth in submerged rice .
Nematode interactions: Upregulated in nematode-induced syncytia in Arabidopsis roots, facilitating nutrient uptake for pathogens .
Stress responses: Modulates cell wall flexibility during abiotic stressors (e.g., submergence, drought) .
Western Blot: Detects EXPA24 in plant lysates (e.g., rice and Arabidopsis) .
ELISA: Quantifies EXPA24 expression under varying growth conditions .
Immunohistochemistry: Localizes EXPA24 in plant tissues during pathogen attacks .
Specificity: Validated against recombinant EXPA24 in yeast and mammalian systems .
Cross-reactivity: Confirmed in Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa .
Nematode infection: EXPA24 is upregulated in Arabidopsis syncytia during Heterodera schachtii infection, confirmed via RT-PCR and promoter::GUS assays .
Submergence response: Rice EXPA24 drives internodal elongation under water, with mRNA levels peaking within 24 hours of submergence .
Sensitivity: Detects EXPA24 at concentrations as low as 0.2 µg/mL in ELISA .
Thermal stability: Maintains activity after storage at -20°C for 12 months .
Species specificity: Limited cross-reactivity outside Arabidopsis and rice .
Validation gaps: Few peer-reviewed studies confirm antibody efficacy in non-model plants .
Storage requirements: Lyophilized antibodies require strict temperature control (-20°C) .
KEGG: ath:AT5G39310
STRING: 3702.AT5G39310.1
Validation of antibody specificity is critical for ensuring experimental reliability. For EXPA24 antibody, recommended validation approaches include western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence with appropriate positive and negative controls. When performing validation, it's essential to test the antibody against relevant tissues or cell lines that are known to express or lack the target antigen . Additionally, competition assays with purified antigen can provide further evidence of specificity. Researchers should consider including knockout or knockdown models as gold-standard negative controls to conclusively demonstrate antibody specificity .
Antibody titration should be conducted systematically to determine the optimal concentration that provides the best signal-to-noise ratio. Begin with a broad range of dilutions (e.g., 1:100 to 1:10,000) and narrow down based on initial results. For EXPA24 antibody, prepare a dilution series in appropriate buffer (typically PBS with 1-5% BSA or serum) and test against a constant amount of antigen . Plot signal intensity against antibody concentration to identify the inflection point where additional antibody no longer increases signal proportionally. This approach not only conserves valuable antibody resources but also minimizes background and non-specific binding that can occur with excessive antibody concentrations .
For optimal stability and functionality of EXPA24 antibody, storage and experimental buffers must be carefully selected. Most monoclonal antibodies maintain activity when stored at -20°C in PBS supplemented with 50% glycerol and 0.02-0.05% sodium azide as a preservative . For working solutions, Tris-buffered saline (pH 7.4-8.0) often provides optimal binding conditions. When developing analytical methods, it's important to systematically evaluate buffer conditions including pH, salt concentration, and additives to support pre-clinical and clinical stability testing . Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to significant loss of antibody activity through denaturation and aggregation. For long-term storage of diluted antibody, aliquoting is strongly recommended to maintain consistent antibody performance across experiments .
Determining suitability for flow cytometry requires specific validation steps. First, confirm that the EXPA24 antibody recognizes the native (non-denatured) form of the antigen by testing on live cells that express the target . Use appropriate fluorophore-conjugated secondary antibodies or directly conjugated primary antibodies optimized for flow cytometry. Compare staining patterns between positive and negative control samples, looking for clear separation of positive populations . Titrate the antibody to determine optimal concentration, as excessive antibody can increase non-specific binding. Include proper compensation controls if using multiple fluorochromes. Finally, validate results using alternative detection methods or another antibody targeting a different epitope of the same protein to confirm specificity .
Epitope masking represents a significant challenge when working with complex biological samples. For EXPA24 antibody applications, several advanced approaches can be employed to overcome this limitation. First, consider alternative epitope retrieval methods beyond standard heat-induced retrieval, such as enzymatic digestion with proteases or detergent-based extraction to expose masked epitopes . In cases where protein-protein interactions cause masking, chemical crosslinking followed by stringent washing can help stabilize interactions for detection.
For particularly challenging samples, employing a cocktail of antibodies targeting different epitopes of the same protein can significantly improve detection sensitivity. Research has demonstrated that pairing antibodies with different binding characteristics can enhance antigen detection, as seen with SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein detection where rigid monoclonal antibody pairs improved sensitivity by facilitating linear polymerization rather than forming closed sandwich-like complexes . When designing detection systems, consider the structural rigidity of the antibodies and how this affects multivalent binding to the target protein .
Affinity maturation significantly influences antibody performance across experimental platforms. Research on antibody responses shows that naturally matured antibodies exhibit distinct convergent sequence and molecular features that enhance their specificity and binding properties . For EXPA24 antibody applications, understanding the somatic hypermutation pathway is crucial for predicting performance variability across different assay conditions.
Analysis of large-scale antibody datasets (such as the study of ~8,000 SARS-CoV-2 antibodies) has revealed that public antibody clonotypes show recurring affinity maturation pathways that optimize binding characteristics . When working with EXPA24 antibody, researchers should consider:
| Affinity Maturation Parameter | Impact on Experimental Performance | Optimization Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| CDR H3 sequence variations | Affects epitope specificity and cross-reactivity | Select antibody clones with optimal CDR H3 configurations for target epitope |
| Somatic hypermutation level | Influences binding affinity and off-rate | Consider clone maturation stage for kinetic-sensitive applications |
| Framework mutations | Affects antibody stability in different buffers | Test buffer conditions systematically for optimal performance |
| Light chain contributions | Can dominate binding in some antibody classes | Evaluate both heavy and light chain sequences when selecting clones |
Understanding these parameters allows researchers to select optimal antibody clones for specific experimental contexts and to troubleshoot binding issues when they arise .
Developing high-sensitivity sandwich immunoassays requires careful consideration of antibody pairs and their structural properties. Recent research demonstrates that antibody flexibility significantly impacts assay sensitivity. When designing sandwich assays with EXPA24 antibody, consider the following evidence-based strategies:
First, select capture and detection antibody pairs that bind to non-overlapping epitopes to enable simultaneous binding. Research using small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy has shown that rigid monoclonal antibodies form linear arrangements when binding to antigens, whereas flexible antibodies tend to form closed sandwich-like complexes . This structural arrangement significantly impacts detection sensitivity.
For optimal sensitivity, pair rigid monoclonal antibodies that enforce linear polymerization of the antibody-antigen complex. As demonstrated in modified sandwich ELISAs, rigid antibody pairings that promote linear arrangement rather than closed complexes can substantially increase detection sensitivity . This approach is particularly valuable for early diagnosis and epidemiological studies.
When optimizing sandwich immunoassays:
Systematically test multiple antibody pairs with different epitope specificities
Evaluate both orientations of each antibody pair (each serving as capture or detection)
Optimize blocking agents to minimize background without interfering with specific binding
Consider using oriented immobilization techniques for capture antibodies to maximize antigen binding capacity
Determine optimal concentrations of both capture and detection antibodies through systematic titration
Detecting low-abundance targets in complex biological matrices represents one of the most challenging aspects of antibody-based research. For EXPA24 antibody applications, several advanced approaches can significantly improve detection sensitivity.
First, consider signal amplification strategies beyond conventional secondary antibody detection. Tyramide signal amplification (TSA) can enhance sensitivity by 10-100 fold by depositing multiple fluorophores at the site of antibody binding . Alternatively, implement rolling circle amplification or proximity ligation assays when extremely low detection limits are required.
Sample preparation is equally critical. Implement fractionation or enrichment protocols to increase target concentration before antibody application. For tissue samples, optimized antigen retrieval protocols specific to the target epitope can dramatically improve detection .
For immunoassay development, incorporate pre-analytical procedures that have been systematically evaluated through Design of Experiments (DoE) approaches. This allows for scientific assessment of multiple factors (process parameters) and their interactions on critical quality attributes simultaneously . When designing optimization experiments:
Define critical quality attributes for your specific application
Identify key process parameters that might affect detection (pH, temperature, antibody concentration, etc.)
Perform systematic scouting experiments to determine appropriate parameter ranges
Implement full factorial or response surface methodology DoE to identify optimal conditions
Validate optimized conditions with independent samples
Research has shown that systematic process optimization using DoE approaches can lead to significantly improved detection sensitivity and reproducibility in antibody-based assays .
Selection of appropriate conjugation chemistry is crucial for maintaining antibody functionality. For EXPA24 antibody, several conjugation strategies can be employed depending on the detection system requirements. Direct labeling via amine-reactive chemistry (using NHS esters to target lysine residues) offers simplicity but may affect antigen binding if lysines are within or near the paratope .
Site-specific conjugation methods that target the Fc region while preserving Fab functionality are preferred for maintaining binding capacity. These include:
Enzymatic approaches using transglutaminases or sortase A
Glycan-directed conjugation targeting Fc glycosylation sites
Thiol-directed conjugation after selective reduction of hinge-region disulfides
For antibody-drug conjugates, maintaining proper drug-antibody ratio (DAR) is essential. Studies show that DAR can be precisely controlled by modulating reduction conditions, as demonstrated in systematic process development studies where TCEP equivalence directly correlated with average DAR values :
| TCEP Equivalence | Reaction Time (h) | Average DAR |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 | 1 | 2.73 |
| 1.5 | 2 | 2.75 |
| 1.5 | 3 | 2.70 |
| 1.5 | 4 | 2.69 |
| 2.25 | 1 | 4.03 |
| 2.25 | 2 | 4.03 |
| 2.25 | 4 | 3.96 |
| 3.0 | 1 | 5.12 |
| 3.0 | 2 | 5.27 |
| 3.0 | 3 | 5.25 |
| 3.0 | 4 | 5.19 |
This data illustrates how TCEP concentration significantly impacts conjugation while reaction time has minimal effect beyond the first hour . Such systematic optimization is essential for developing reproducible detection reagents.
Lot-to-lot variability represents a significant challenge in antibody-based research. To address inconsistent performance of EXPA24 antibody, implement a systematic troubleshooting approach. First, establish a comprehensive quality control protocol that includes specificity testing against positive and negative controls for each new lot . Document binding characteristics using techniques like surface plasmon resonance or bio-layer interferometry to quantify affinity constants.
For monoclonal antibodies like EXPA24, inconsistencies often stem from post-translational modifications or differences in glycosylation patterns that occur during production . Implement analytical methods such as size-exclusion chromatography, charge profiling (isoelectric focusing), and mass spectrometry to characterize each lot thoroughly.
When inconsistencies are observed, consider these strategic approaches:
Maintain a reference standard from a well-performing lot for side-by-side comparisons
Validate each lot across multiple application-specific assays
Implement bridging studies when transitioning between lots
Consider establishing acceptance criteria for critical quality attributes based on the specific application requirements
Maintain detailed records of production conditions that correlate with optimal performance
Finally, remember that different experimental conditions may require different optimization strategies. What works in one context (e.g., ELISA) may not directly translate to another (e.g., immunohistochemistry) .
Comprehensive validation requires a systematically designed panel of controls. For EXPA24 antibody, essential controls include:
Positive Controls:
Cell lines or tissues with verified expression of the target protein
Recombinant protein standards at known concentrations
Negative Controls:
Knockout or knockdown models where the target protein is absent or significantly reduced
Cell lines naturally lacking the target protein expression
Isotype control antibodies matching the EXPA24 antibody class and species
Procedural Controls:
Secondary antibody-only controls to assess non-specific binding
Blocking peptide competition assays to confirm epitope specificity
Cross-reactivity panels with structurally similar proteins
When validating for specific applications, additional controls may be necessary. For example, in immunoprecipitation experiments, include pre-clearing steps and non-immune IgG controls. For flow cytometry, include fluorescence-minus-one (FMO) controls and viability dyes to exclude dead cells .
The most rigorous validation approaches employ orthogonal techniques to confirm findings. For instance, protein detection by EXPA24 antibody should be corroborated by mRNA expression data or mass spectrometry-based protein identification when feasible .
Structural biology approaches provide valuable insights for rational antibody engineering. Recent advances in understanding antibody-antigen interactions at the molecular level have revealed how specific structural features contribute to binding characteristics . For EXPA24 antibody enhancement, researchers should consider:
Complementarity-determining region (CDR) engineering based on structural data can significantly improve binding properties. Analysis of large antibody datasets has revealed that CDR H3 plays a crucial role in epitope recognition, with specific sequence clusters correlating with binding to distinct epitopes . By applying deep learning approaches to these structural patterns, researchers can predict and optimize antibody specificity.
The rigidity or flexibility of antibody structures also significantly impacts their function. Research using small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy has demonstrated that rigid monoclonal antibodies form different complexes compared to flexible ones when binding to antigens . This structural understanding can guide the engineering of EXPA24 antibody variants with optimized rigidity for specific applications.
Furthermore, emerging computational methods for predicting antibody-antigen interactions can accelerate the design of improved variants. As demonstrated in recent studies, deep learning models trained on antibody sequence data can predict binding specificity with increasing accuracy . These approaches can be applied to design EXPA24 antibody variants with enhanced specificity or broadened reactivity profiles depending on research requirements.
Advances in antibody humanization technologies have significantly expanded the therapeutic potential of monoclonal antibodies. For EXPA24 antibody development toward therapeutic applications, several innovative approaches deserve consideration.
The use of genetically modified mice with "humanized" immune systems represents a significant advancement in antibody development. This approach, as demonstrated in recent research, allows for the direct generation of human antibodies without the need for subsequent engineering . Professor Baker's research team successfully utilized this method to develop monoclonal antibodies against bacterial pathogens, noting: "Because these mice have 'humanized' immune systems, we wouldn't then need to reengineer the antibodies to work in humans" .
This approach offers several advantages over traditional humanization methods:
It preserves the natural pairing of heavy and light chains that occurs during the immune response
It avoids potential loss of affinity that can occur during CDR grafting
It generates antibodies that are less likely to trigger anti-drug antibody responses in patients
For existing EXPA24 antibodies that require humanization, advanced computational approaches now allow for more precise engineering of framework regions while preserving critical binding residues. These methods integrate structural information, sequence conservation analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations to predict the impact of framework modifications on antibody stability and affinity .
When evaluating antibody performance, comparative analysis provides crucial context for interpreting results. For EXPA24 antibody, systematic benchmarking against other antibodies targeting related epitopes should consider multiple performance parameters.
Specificity comparisons should evaluate cross-reactivity profiles across related protein families. Research approaches that classify antibodies based on binding patterns to structurally similar epitopes can reveal important differences in specificity . For example, analysis of antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 demonstrated that antibodies targeting different domains (RBD, NTD, and S2) exhibited distinct convergent sequence and molecular features .
Sensitivity comparisons should quantify detection limits under standardized conditions. Studies have shown that antibody pairing strategies significantly impact detection sensitivity, with rigid monoclonal antibody pairs often providing superior performance in sandwich assays . When evaluating EXPA24 antibody against alternatives, consider both absolute sensitivity and performance consistency across different sample types.
Application versatility is another important comparison metric. Some antibodies perform well across multiple applications (Western blot, immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry) while others excel in specific contexts . Document performance across relevant applications to identify the optimal antibody for each experimental scenario.
| Performance Parameter | EXPA24 Antibody | Alternative Antibody A | Alternative Antibody B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specificity (cross-reactivity) | [Specific data to be determined] | [Comparative data] | [Comparative data] |
| Sensitivity (LOD) | [Specific data to be determined] | [Comparative data] | [Comparative data] |
| Application versatility | [Specific data to be determined] | [Comparative data] | [Comparative data] |
| Lot-to-lot consistency | [Specific data to be determined] | [Comparative data] | [Comparative data] |
| Cost-effectiveness | [Specific data to be determined] | [Comparative data] | [Comparative data] |
This comparative framework allows researchers to make evidence-based decisions when selecting the optimal antibody for their specific research needs .