Antibodies targeting IL-17 pathways typically follow a Y-shaped immunoglobulin structure with Fab regions for antigen binding and Fc regions for immune activation . Key functional components include:
Fab fragment: Binds IL-17A (Th17 cytokine) or IL-17F (structurally similar paralog) .
Fc region: Engineered for extended half-life (e.g., YTE modification: M225Y/S254T/T256E) or reduced effector functions .
Several antibodies with dual IL-17A/F specificity share functional parallels with the hypothesized "FLA17" designation:
Dual inhibition of IL-17A/F reduces inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) more effectively than IL-17A blockade alone .
In vivo models: Anti-IL-17A/F antibodies suppress keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC) release and joint inflammation .
Safety: Increased adverse events (e.g., infections) vs. placebo, but favorable risk-benefit profile in autoimmune diseases .
A meta-analysis of five randomized trials on IL-17 antibodies demonstrated:
ACR20/50 response: 34% improvement with IL-17 inhibitors vs. placebo in rheumatoid arthritis .
DAS28 reduction: Mean difference of -0.62 (95% CI: -1.01 to -0.23) .
Half-life extension: YTE-modified antibodies (e.g., QLS22001) achieve >30-day half-life in primates .
Glycosylation: N-linked glycans at Asn-297 critical for FcγR binding and stability .
FLA17 (AT5G06390) is a fasciclin-like arabinogalactan protein found in Arabidopsis thaliana (Mouse-ear cress) . This protein belongs to a family of cell surface adhesion proteins that are involved in plant cell wall architecture and development. FLA17 is part of the complex network of proteins that contribute to cell-to-cell adhesion, signaling, and plant structural integrity. Research using FLA17 antibodies enables the specific detection and localization of this protein in plant tissues, supporting investigations into developmental biology and cell wall dynamics.
FLA17 antibodies are commonly validated through multiple complementary techniques. The primary validation method is ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), which confirms binding specificity and sensitivity . Additional validation methods include Western blotting to verify molecular weight and specificity, immunohistochemistry to confirm tissue localization patterns, and immunoprecipitation to validate protein interactions. For comprehensive validation, researchers should perform multiple technique comparisons and include appropriate positive and negative controls, particularly using wild-type and FLA17 knockout Arabidopsis lines to demonstrate antibody specificity.
FLA17 antibodies, like most research antibodies, require specific handling to maintain functionality. For long-term storage, aliquot the antibody upon receipt and store at -20°C or -80°C to prevent freeze-thaw cycles that can degrade protein structure. During experimental use, keep antibodies on ice and minimize exposure to room temperature. When diluting, use recommended buffers typically containing stabilizing proteins such as BSA. For immunohistochemistry applications, optimize fixation protocols to preserve epitope recognition. Always refer to manufacturer specifications, as custom antibodies may have specific stability requirements depending on the production method and format (polyclonal vs. monoclonal).
When comparing FLA17 expression across developmental stages, implement a systematic experimental design that controls for both biological and technical variables. Begin by establishing a clear timeline of developmental points for sampling, including seedling, vegetative, flowering, and seed development stages. Employ both transcript analysis (qRT-PCR with validated reference genes for normalization) and protein detection (immunoblotting with FLA17 antibodies) to capture regulation at multiple levels. For immunolocalization studies, use consistent tissue processing methods across all developmental stages, with appropriate controls for autofluorescence, which is particularly critical in plant tissues.
For quantitative analysis, implement a minimum of 3-4 biological replicates per developmental stage, with each replicate representing a pool of multiple plants to minimize individual variation. Statistically analyze results using ANOVA with appropriate post-hoc tests to determine significant differences across developmental stages. Consider complementing antibody-based detection with reporter gene constructs (FLA17 promoter:GUS or FLA17:GFP fusions) for dynamic expression studies.
For rigorous immunolocalization with FLA17 antibodies, implement the following essential controls:
Negative controls:
Omission of primary antibody while maintaining secondary antibody application
Substitution with non-specific IgG from the same species
Pre-immune serum (for polyclonal antibodies)
Analysis of FLA17 knockout or knockdown plant lines
Specificity controls:
Peptide competition/blocking studies using the immunizing peptide
Western blot verification of antibody specificity in the same tissues
Positive controls:
Tissues known to express FLA17 based on transcriptomic data
Parallel detection of established cell wall markers
Technical controls:
Autofluorescence controls (particularly important in plant tissues)
Secondary antibody-only controls to verify absence of non-specific binding
Additionally, include controls for fixation artifacts by comparing different fixation methods, as some may differentially affect epitope accessibility in the cell wall matrix.
Optimizing Western blotting for FLA17 detection requires addressing several plant-specific challenges:
Sample preparation:
Use extraction buffers containing protease inhibitors and reducing agents
Include cell wall-specific extraction components (e.g., high salt concentration or detergents) to efficiently solubilize cell wall-associated proteins
Consider using phenol extraction methods to minimize interference from plant polysaccharides and secondary metabolites
Gel electrophoresis:
Use gradient gels (4-12% or 4-20%) to accommodate potential post-translational modifications that affect migration
Load appropriate protein markers that span the expected molecular weight range
Transfer and blocking:
Optimize transfer conditions (time, voltage) for cell wall proteins, which may require extended transfer times
Test different blocking agents (5% non-fat milk may be less effective than 3-5% BSA for plant proteins)
Antibody incubation:
Titrate primary antibody concentrations (typically starting with 1:500 to 1:2000 dilutions)
Extend primary antibody incubation time (overnight at 4°C often yields best results)
Include 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 in wash buffers to reduce background
Detection:
Compare chemiluminescent and fluorescent detection methods for optimal signal-to-noise ratio
Consider using signal enhancers specifically designed for plant protein detection
Investigating FLA17 interactions with other cell wall components requires multi-faceted approaches:
Co-immunoprecipitation with FLA17 antibodies:
Use crosslinking agents to stabilize transient interactions
Analyze precipitated complexes by mass spectrometry to identify interaction partners
Verify interactions with reciprocal co-IP using antibodies against identified partners
Proximity labeling techniques:
Generate FLA17 fusions with BioID or TurboID enzymatic tags
Express in Arabidopsis to biotinylate proximal proteins
Purify biotinylated proteins and identify by mass spectrometry
In situ interaction analysis:
Implement Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) using fluorescently-tagged proteins
Use Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA) with FLA17 antibodies and antibodies against candidate interactors
Apply super-resolution microscopy to visualize nanoscale co-localization patterns
Biochemical fractionation:
Perform sequential extraction of cell wall components
Analyze co-fractionation patterns of FLA17 and other components
Use size exclusion chromatography to identify potential complexes
Genetic approaches:
Create double mutants of FLA17 and candidate interacting proteins
Look for synthetic phenotypes suggesting functional relationships
Use CRISPR-based gene editing to modify putative interaction domains
These approaches can be combined with computational predictions of protein-protein and protein-carbohydrate interactions to guide experimental design and interpretation.
Contradictions between transcriptomic and proteomic analyses of FLA17 are common challenges in plant molecular biology research. To reconcile such discrepancies:
Examine methodological differences:
Assess RNA extraction methods for potential bias against specific cell types where FLA17 is expressed
Evaluate protein extraction protocols for efficiency in solubilizing cell wall proteins
Consider whether post-translational modifications might affect antibody recognition
Consider temporal dynamics:
Implement time-course experiments to capture potential delays between transcription and translation
Assess mRNA and protein half-lives through pulse-chase experiments
Evaluate transcriptional bursting patterns that might not be reflected in stable proteins
Investigate post-transcriptional regulation:
Analyze miRNA targeting of FLA17 transcripts
Assess alternative splicing patterns that might affect antibody epitope presence
Examine translational efficiency through polysome profiling
Evaluate spatial considerations:
Compare whole-tissue analyses with cell-type specific approaches
Use laser capture microdissection coupled with both RNA-seq and proteomics
Implement in situ techniques to visualize transcript and protein localization simultaneously
Statistical validation:
Use multiple biological and technical replicates
Apply appropriate normalization methods for both transcriptomic and proteomic datasets
Consider Bayesian approaches to integrate contradictory datasets
By systematically investigating these factors, researchers can develop models that explain apparent contradictions and gain deeper insights into FLA17 regulation.
Fasciclin-like arabinogalactan proteins like FLA17 undergo extensive and complex glycosylation that is crucial for their function. The most effective approaches for studying these modifications include:
Mass spectrometry-based glycoproteomics:
Implement hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) for glycopeptide enrichment
Use electron transfer dissociation (ETD) or electron capture dissociation (ECD) for fragmentation
Apply multiple fragmentation techniques to characterize both peptide backbone and glycan structures
Develop custom data analysis pipelines to address plant-specific glycan complexities
Glycan-specific labeling and imaging:
Use click chemistry-compatible metabolic labeling to incorporate modified monosaccharides
Apply carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs) or lectins with defined specificities
Implement super-resolution microscopy to visualize glycan distribution patterns
Enzymatic profiling:
Treat purified FLA17 with specific glycosidases to remove defined glycan structures
Assess mobility shifts by Western blotting with FLA17 antibodies
Compare different tissue sources for glycosylation heterogeneity
Genetic manipulation of glycosylation:
Generate Arabidopsis lines with mutations in specific glycosyltransferases
Create reporter constructs with modified glycosylation sites
Assess functional consequences of altered glycosylation patterns
Comparative glycomics:
Compare glycosylation patterns across developmental stages and stress conditions
Analyze species-specific differences in FLA17 glycosylation
Correlate glycosylation patterns with functional properties
These approaches can be integrated to develop comprehensive models of FLA17 glycosylation and its functional significance in plant development and stress responses.
| Feature | Polyclonal FLA17 Antibodies | Monoclonal FLA17 Antibodies |
|---|---|---|
| Epitope recognition | Multiple epitopes on FLA17 | Single epitope on FLA17 |
| Production method | Immunization of animals (typically rabbits) | Hybridoma technology or recombinant methods |
| Batch-to-batch variation | Moderate to high | Minimal |
| Sensitivity | Generally higher due to multiple epitope binding | May be lower but more consistent |
| Specificity | May cross-react with related FLA proteins | Higher specificity for particular epitope |
| Applications best suited for | Western blotting, immunoprecipitation | Immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry |
| Tolerance to fixation | Better tolerance to various fixation methods | May be more sensitive to epitope masking |
| Ability to detect denatured protein | Generally good | Depends on epitope (conformational vs. linear) |
| Cost and availability | Lower cost, easier to produce | Higher cost, more resource-intensive |
| Long-term reproducibility | Limited by animal lifespan and serum volume | Unlimited production potential |
When selecting between polyclonal and monoclonal FLA17 antibodies, researchers should consider the specific experimental requirements, including detection method, sample preparation, and the need for long-term experimental reproducibility. For novel applications or limited information about FLA17 epitope accessibility, starting with polyclonal antibodies may provide greater chance of detection, while monoclonal antibodies offer advantages for quantitative and comparative studies requiring high reproducibility.
When encountering weak or non-specific signals with FLA17 antibodies, implement a systematic troubleshooting approach:
For weak signals:
Increase primary antibody concentration incrementally (e.g., from 1:1000 to 1:500)
Extend primary antibody incubation time (overnight at 4°C)
Optimize protein extraction methods for cell wall proteins
Use signal enhancement systems compatible with your detection method
Increase protein loading while ensuring even transfer
Try alternative blocking agents (BSA vs. milk protein)
Reduce washing stringency slightly by decreasing detergent concentration
For non-specific signals:
Increase blocking stringency (longer blocking times, higher blocker concentration)
Add 0.1-0.2% Tween-20 to antibody dilution buffers
Perform antibody pre-adsorption against plant extracts from FLA17 knockout lines
Increase salt concentration in wash buffers (from 150mM to 250-300mM NaCl)
Reduce primary antibody concentration
Use more stringent secondary antibody with minimal cross-reactivity
Consider using highly cross-adsorbed secondary antibodies
For both issues:
Validate antibody using positive control samples with known FLA17 expression
Test alternative epitope retrieval methods for fixed samples
Compare antibody performance across different sample preparation methods
Consider trying antibodies from alternative suppliers or different clones
Implement tissue-specific extraction protocols optimized for cell wall proteins
Maintain detailed records of all optimization steps to facilitate reproducible protocols once optimal conditions are identified.
Adapting FLA17 antibody protocols across plant species requires careful consideration of evolutionary, biochemical, and technical factors:
Sequence homology assessment:
Perform sequence alignment of FLA17 homologs across target species
Focus particularly on the regions containing antibody epitopes
Predict potential cross-reactivity based on epitope conservation
Biochemical adaptations:
Adjust extraction buffers to account for species-specific differences in cell wall composition
Modify detergent concentrations based on differences in membrane lipid composition
Consider species-specific protease inhibitor cocktails
Technical modifications:
Optimize fixation protocols based on tissue-specific penetration requirements
Adjust antigen retrieval methods to account for differences in cell wall density
Modify blocking solutions to address species-specific sources of background
Validation approaches:
Perform Western blot analysis to confirm appropriate molecular weight in new species
Include peptide competition controls to verify specificity
Consider using genetic approaches (RNAi, CRISPR) to validate antibody specificity
Complement antibody-based detection with transcript analysis
Cross-species controls:
Always run parallel samples from Arabidopsis as reference standards
Include gradient gels to accommodate potential size differences in homologs
Consider epitope-tagged versions of the target protein as positive controls
By systematically addressing these considerations, researchers can effectively adapt FLA17 antibody protocols across diverse plant species, enabling comparative studies of this important cell wall protein family.
Interpreting quantitative differences in FLA17 immunolabeling requires rigorous analytical approaches to distinguish biological variations from technical artifacts:
Establish quantification parameters:
Define clear regions of interest (ROIs) for consistent measurement
Determine appropriate signal thresholding methods
Select appropriate quantification metrics (intensity, area, colocalization coefficients)
Implement normalization strategies:
Use internal reference proteins with known stable expression
Apply tissue-specific normalization to account for structural differences
Consider ratiometric approaches comparing FLA17 to total protein or cell wall markers
Statistical analysis:
Apply appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution
Use nested statistical models to account for technical and biological replicates
Implement power analysis to ensure sufficient sample sizes
Control for technical variables:
Account for differences in fixation efficiency between tissues/conditions
Control for potential differential antibody accessibility
Monitor for photobleaching or signal decay during image acquisition
Biological interpretation frameworks:
Correlate changes with developmental stages or stress responses
Consider potential post-translational modifications affecting epitope recognition
Integrate with other datasets (transcriptomics, metabolomics) for comprehensive interpretation
When publishing, provide detailed methodological information including image acquisition parameters, processing steps, and quantification methods to ensure reproducibility and proper interpretation of FLA17 immunolabeling data.
For comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of FLA17 and related proteins across plant genomes, the following specialized tools and approaches are recommended:
Sequence analysis tools:
HMMER for sensitive profile-based searches of FLA domains
MEME Suite for motif discovery and characterization
SignalP and TMHMM for secretion signal and transmembrane domain prediction
NetGlycate and GlycoMine for glycosylation site prediction
Structural analysis:
AlphaFold or RoseTTAFold for protein structure prediction
GlycanBuilder for modeling potential glycan structures
Molecular dynamics simulations to assess glycoprotein behavior in cell wall environment
Comparative genomics approaches:
OrthoFinder or OrthoMCL for identifying orthologs across species
CAFE for gene family evolution analysis
Selection analysis tools (PAML, HyPhy) to identify sites under positive selection
Functional annotation:
Gene Ontology enrichment tools specific to plant annotations
STRING-db for predicted protein-protein interaction networks
Specialized plant databases like TAIR, Gramene, and Phytozome
Expression data integration:
Combination of publicly available RNA-seq datasets through meta-analysis
Co-expression network analysis using WGCNA or similar approaches
Integration of proteomics and glycomics datasets where available
Visualization tools:
Circos for genomic comparisons
Interactive phylogenetic tree viewers (iTOL, EvolView)
Cell wall-specific visualization tools for modeling spatial arrangements
These tools can be integrated into custom pipelines to provide comprehensive evolutionary and functional characterization of FLA17 across diverse plant species, revealing conservation patterns and species-specific adaptations.
Resolving contradictions between immunohistochemistry (IHC) and biochemical analyses of FLA17 requires systematic investigation of multiple factors:
Epitope accessibility differences:
Evaluate whether fixation methods used for IHC may mask or alter epitopes
Test multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes
Implement antigen retrieval techniques optimized for cell wall proteins
Consider native vs. denatured states of the protein in different assays
Extraction efficiency considerations:
Compare different protein extraction methods specifically designed for cell wall proteins
Implement sequential extraction to capture different subcellular pools of FLA17
Quantify extraction efficiency using spiked-in standards
Post-translational modification differences:
Assess whether glycosylation patterns affect antibody recognition differently in tissues vs. extracts
Use enzymatic deglycosylation to determine epitope accessibility effects
Consider other modifications (phosphorylation, etc.) that might be tissue or condition specific
Technical validation approaches:
Use transgenic plants expressing tagged versions of FLA17 as controls
Implement multiple detection methods (fluorescence, colorimetric, electron microscopy)
Perform parallel analyses on the same sample preparations where possible
Integrated analysis framework:
Develop models that account for differences in detection sensitivity
Consider spatial and temporal factors that might explain apparent contradictions
Use computational approaches to reconcile datasets with different resolution levels
By systematically addressing these factors, researchers can reconcile contradictory results and develop more accurate models of FLA17 localization, modification, and function in plant tissues.
Several cutting-edge technologies show promise for advancing FLA17 antibody-based research:
Advanced imaging methods:
Super-resolution techniques (STORM, PALM, STED) for nanoscale localization of FLA17
Expansion microscopy adapted for plant cell walls
Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) for structural context
Light sheet microscopy for 3D dynamic imaging in living tissues
Next-generation antibody technologies:
Single-domain antibodies (nanobodies) for enhanced penetration into dense cell walls
Site-specific labeling of antibodies with click chemistry-compatible tags
Antibody engineering for pH or redox-dependent binding for specific microenvironments
Proximity labeling antibodies that can mark neighboring proteins
Single-cell approaches:
Integration with single-cell proteomics
In situ sequencing combined with antibody detection
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) adapted for plant cells
Microfluidic approaches for single-cell Western blotting
Spatial multi-omics integration:
Spatial transcriptomics combined with antibody-based protein detection
Mass spectrometry imaging for correlating FLA17 with metabolites
Multi-modal imaging platforms that simultaneously capture multiple molecular classes
AI and computational advances:
Deep learning for automated image analysis and pattern recognition
Predictive modeling of antibody-epitope interactions
Virtual screening for designing enhanced FLA17-specific antibodies
Integrated data analysis pipelines for multi-dimensional datasets
These emerging technologies will enable unprecedented insights into FLA17 distribution, dynamics, and functional relationships in plant tissues, advancing our understanding of cell wall biology.
CRISPR-based approaches offer powerful complementary strategies to antibody-based studies of FLA17:
Validation and controls:
Generate precise FLA17 knockout lines for antibody validation
Create epitope-tagged FLA17 variants at endogenous loci
Implement inducible degradation systems to confirm antibody specificity
Functional genomics:
Perform domain-specific mutations to correlate structure with antibody recognition
Create glycosylation site mutants to assess impact on antibody binding
Implement base editing to introduce specific amino acid changes in epitope regions
Advanced cellular analysis:
Generate FLA17 fusions with split fluorescent proteins for interaction studies
Create conditional FLA17 expression systems to study temporal dynamics
Implement CRISPR activation/inhibition systems to modulate expression levels
Multi-gene approaches:
Generate multiplex mutations in FLA gene family members
Create combinatorial mutations in FLA17 and interacting partners
Implement CRISPR screens to identify regulators of FLA17 expression
Novel visualization strategies:
CRISPR-based RNA labeling to visualize FLA17 transcription sites
Integration of CRISPR-based recording systems with antibody detection
Implement Perturb-seq approaches with antibody-based readouts
By integrating CRISPR technologies with antibody-based approaches, researchers can achieve unprecedented insights into FLA17 biology, combining the spatial resolution of antibody detection with the genetic precision of CRISPR genome editing.
Implementing robust standardization approaches would significantly advance FLA17 antibody research quality and reproducibility:
Reference materials and protocols:
Establish shared positive control samples (recombinant proteins, expressing cell lines)
Develop community-endorsed standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Create calibration standards for quantitative applications
Establish common fixation and extraction protocols
Antibody validation framework:
Implement multi-technique validation requirements (Western blot, IHC, IP)
Standardize knockout/knockdown controls for specificity validation
Establish minimum reporting standards for validation experiments
Create a centralized database of validated antibodies with application-specific data
Data standardization:
Implement standardized image acquisition parameters
Develop common quantification metrics for meaningful cross-study comparisons
Establish standard formats for reporting quantitative immunoassay results
Create shared data repositories with standardized metadata
Interlaboratory studies:
Organize round-robin testing of commonly used antibodies
Establish reproducibility benchmarks across different laboratories
Develop proficiency testing programs for antibody-based techniques
Create multi-laboratory validation networks
Reporting standards:
Implement detailed methods reporting requirements for publications
Establish minimum information guidelines for antibody experiments
Develop standardized nomenclature for FLA protein family members
Create machine-readable formats for experimental protocols
Coordinated standardization efforts would accelerate progress by enabling meaningful data integration across studies, reducing duplication of validation efforts, and establishing a foundation of reliable methodologies for FLA17 research.
| Technical Issue | Potential Causes | Troubleshooting Approaches |
|---|---|---|
| No signal in Western blot | - Insufficient protein extraction - Protein degradation - Inefficient transfer - Epitope denaturation | - Use specialized cell wall protein extraction buffers - Add additional protease inhibitors - Verify transfer with reversible stains - Try native gel conditions |
| Multiple bands in Western blot | - Glycoform heterogeneity - Proteolytic processing - Cross-reactivity - Sample degradation | - Perform enzymatic deglycosylation - Compare with transgenic controls - Use peptide competition - Optimize sample preparation |
| High background in IHC | - Insufficient blocking - Autofluorescence - Non-specific binding - Secondary antibody issues | - Increase blocking time/concentration - Use autofluorescence quenchers - Perform pre-absorption - Use highly cross-adsorbed secondaries |
| Inconsistent immunolabeling | - Fixation variability - Antibody batch differences - Tissue penetration issues - Environmental factors | - Standardize fixation protocols - Purchase larger antibody lots - Optimize tissue sectioning - Control environmental conditions |
| Poor immunoprecipitation yield | - Inefficient extraction - Weak antibody binding - Interfering compounds - Co-factor requirements | - Try different extraction buffers - Use higher antibody concentrations - Include specific additives - Add potential co-factors |
| Contradictory ELISA results | - Matrix effects - Hook effect at high concentrations - Interfering compounds - Inadequate standards | - Use matrix-matched standards - Include multiple dilutions - Add blocking agents - Use recombinant protein standards |
| Irreproducible quantification | - Image acquisition variability - Inconsistent sampling - Analysis parameter differences - Reference gene instability | - Standardize acquisition settings - Implement systematic sampling - Document analysis parameters - Validate reference genes |
Addressing these common technical issues requires systematic optimization and standardization of protocols, combined with appropriate controls and validation approaches. Maintaining detailed records of experimental conditions and reagent specifications is essential for troubleshooting and reproducibility.
To rigorously verify the specificity of commercially available FLA17 antibodies, researchers should implement a comprehensive validation strategy:
Genetic validation approaches:
Test antibody against FLA17 knockout or knockdown lines
Compare wild-type with FLA17 overexpression lines
Use CRISPR-generated epitope modifications as controls
Test against heterologously expressed FLA17 protein
Biochemical validation:
Perform peptide competition assays with immunizing peptide
Test cross-reactivity against recombinant proteins of related FLAs
Conduct immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry
Perform epitope mapping to confirm binding site
Orthogonal method comparison:
Compare antibody detection with mRNA expression patterns
Correlate with GFP-tagged FLA17 localization in transgenics
Verify consistency across multiple detection techniques
Compare results from different antibody clones or suppliers
Specificity controls in applications:
For Western blotting: Size verification and migration patterns
For IHC: Pre-immune serum controls and absorption controls
For ELISA: Dose-response curves and competition assays
For flow cytometry: Isotype controls and blocking experiments
Cross-species validation:
Test against known FLA17 orthologs in related species
Verify correlation with sequence conservation patterns
Compare detection in species lacking FLA17 homologs
This multi-faceted approach ensures comprehensive validation beyond manufacturer specifications and establishes confidence in antibody specificity for critical research applications.
When preparing custom FLA17 antibodies, implementing rigorous quality control measures is essential for ensuring specificity, reproducibility, and experimental reliability:
Antigen design and validation:
Select epitopes with minimal homology to other FLA family members
Avoid regions with high glycosylation or post-translational modifications
Verify antigen purity by mass spectrometry before immunization
Confirm secondary structure predictions align with accessibility
Production quality controls:
Monitor animal response through regular titer testing
Implement standardized immunization protocols
Collect pre-immune sera for negative controls
Document all production variables (adjuvants, schedule, collection methods)
Purification validation:
Verify antibody class and subclass distribution
Confirm purity through SDS-PAGE and size exclusion chromatography
Measure concentration using multiple methods (A280, BCA, Bradford)
Assess aggregation state through dynamic light scattering
Functional characterization:
Determine affinity constants through surface plasmon resonance
Evaluate epitope specificity through peptide arrays
Test cross-reactivity against related FLA proteins
Establish detection limits in relevant matrices
Batch consistency measures:
Create reference standards for inter-batch comparisons
Implement acceptance criteria for batch release
Maintain detailed documentation of production conditions
Perform side-by-side testing of new batches with reference material
Application-specific validation:
Verify performance in each intended application
Establish optimal working conditions and concentrations
Document species cross-reactivity profiles
Determine stability under various storage conditions