FREE1 is an ESCRT-III-associated protein uniquely conserved in plants. Key findings from Arabidopsis studies include:
While no validated FREE1 antibodies are explicitly documented in the provided sources, the structural and functional data from FREE1 studies suggest potential strategies:
AIM Motif: The W438I441 sequence (required for ATG8 interaction) could serve as a peptide epitope for antibody generation.
Phosphorylated Residues: Sites phosphorylated by KIN10 may enable phospho-specific antibodies to study nutrient-responsive signaling.
The Addgene database lists antibodies for autophagy-related proteins (e.g., ATG8, GPC1, APP) but none for FREE1 . This highlights a gap in reagent availability for plant-specific autophagy regulators.
If developed, FREE1 antibodies would enable:
Reagent Availability: No commercial FREE1 antibodies are documented; custom antibody production would require validated epitopes.
Cross-Species Reactivity: Plant-specific proteins often lack mammalian homologs, complicating antibody cross-reactivity.
Functional Assays: Antibodies could clarify whether FREE1’s ESCRT-III recruitment is conserved in other plant lineages.
Here’s a structured collection of FAQs for researchers working with FREE1 antibody in academic settings, synthesized from peer-reviewed studies and technical guidelines:
Approach:
Solutions:
Yeast two-hybrid mutagenesis: Map AIM motifs (W438/I441) critical for binding .
Live-cell imaging: Use Arabidopsis protoplasts expressing FREE1-GFP and mCherry-ATG8 to monitor co-localization .
Immunogold EM: Localize FREE1 on autophagosomes in root tips .
Resolution: FREE1 has dual functions:
Experimental context (e.g., tissue type, stress conditions) influences observed phenotypes.