The antibody consists of a polyclonal rabbit IgG molecule chemically linked to horseradish peroxidase. HRP catalyzes chromogenic or chemiluminescent reactions using substrates like 3,3'-diaminobenzidine (DAB) or luminol, converting target detection into measurable signals. This conjugation amplifies sensitivity by enabling enzymatic turnover of thousands of substrate molecules per antibody .
3.1 Metabolic Disease Studies
GLDC antibody, HRP-conjugated has been used to investigate glycine encephalopathy and nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH), where GLDC mutations disrupt glycine cleavage. Western blot analyses using this antibody revealed reduced GLDC expression in liver tissues from NKH model mice .
3.2 Cancer Research
In hepatocellular carcinoma studies, IHC with this antibody demonstrated upregulated GLDC expression in tumor tissues compared to adjacent normal liver, correlating with altered serine/glycine metabolism .
3.3 Signal Transduction Analysis
CRISPR-edited HEK293A cells lacking GLDC showed complete absence of the 113 kDa band on Western blots when probed with this antibody, confirming target specificity .
A study using the HRP-conjugated GLDC antibody (Avantor BS-13370R-HRP) achieved clear detection of the 113 kDa GLDC band in mouse liver lysates under reducing conditions. Signal intensity correlated with glycine concentration in knockout vs. wild-type models .
| Supplier | Catalog Number | Size | Price | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avantor | BS-13370R-HRP | 100 µL | $405 | WB, IHC-P |
| CUSABIO | CSB-AB-XXXX | 100 µg | $299 | ELISA |
| Thermo Fisher | PA5-26504 | 100 µL | Inquire | WB, ICC |
Western Blotting: Use 1:500–1:2000 dilution in 5% non-fat milk/TBST. Block membranes for 1 hr at RT .
IHC-P: Antigen retrieval with TE buffer (pH 9.0) or citrate buffer (pH 6.0) improves epitope accessibility .
Chemiluminescent Detection: Pair with hydrogen peroxide and luminol substrates for high-sensitivity imaging .
HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies require specific storage conditions to maintain their activity and specificity. These antibodies should typically be stored at -20°C for long-term preservation, while avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles that could compromise antibody integrity. For working solutions, storage at 4°C for up to one month is generally acceptable, but activity should be validated before critical experiments. Some manufacturers recommend adding preservatives such as 50% glycerol for freezer storage to minimize freeze-thaw damage . To ensure maximum shelf-life, antibodies should be stored in small aliquots in sterile conditions, protected from light to prevent photobleaching of the HRP conjugate .
Determining the optimal dilution for HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies in ELISA requires a systematic titration approach. Start with the manufacturer's recommended dilution range (often 1:1000-1:10,000) and perform a series of 2-fold dilutions . Using a standard protocol, coat plates with the target antigen at a fixed concentration, then apply the antibody dilution series. After washing, develop with TMB substrate for a standardized time (typically 15 minutes) and measure absorbance at 450 nm . The optimal dilution is generally where you observe a strong signal-to-noise ratio without reaching signal saturation. For HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies specifically targeting amino acids 868-984, manufacturers often suggest determining the optimal working dilution empirically for each application, as sensitivity can vary between lots and experimental conditions .
When encountering weak signals with HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies in Western blotting, several methodological approaches can improve results. First, verify the expression level of GLDC in your sample, as the 113 kDa protein may be expressed at low levels in certain tissues or cell lines . Consider increasing protein loading to 50-75 μg per lane or using enrichment methods like mitochondrial isolation, since GLDC is primarily a mitochondrial protein . For detection, extend the exposure time and try enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) substrates designed for high sensitivity. Blocking conditions can significantly impact results; test both BSA and non-fat dry milk blockers at 3-5% concentrations to determine optimal background reduction . If signal remains weak, the antibody concentration can be increased incrementally from the standard 1:1000 dilution . Additionally, check transfer efficiency with a reversible protein stain, ensure the antigen is not lost during washing steps, and verify that the epitope (amino acids 868-984 for certain HRP-conjugated antibodies) remains intact after sample preparation .
Cross-reactivity expectations for HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies depend on the specific antibody clone and target epitope. Based on available data, most commercially available HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies are validated primarily for human samples, though some exhibit broader species reactivity . For instance, antibodies targeting the amino acid regions 868-984 typically show strong reactivity to human GLDC with minimal cross-reactivity to other species . In contrast, certain antibody clones like the H-9 mouse monoclonal (available in HRP-conjugated format) demonstrate broader cross-reactivity to mouse and rat GLDC in addition to human samples . The Cell Signaling Technology GLDC antibody (#12794), while not specifically mentioned as HRP-conjugated in the search results, shows cross-reactivity to human, mouse, rat, and monkey samples . Researchers should carefully verify the species reactivity claims through validation experiments when working with non-human samples, as sequence homology in the epitope region will determine cross-reactivity potential.
Optimizing HRP-conjugated GLDC antibody performance for low abundance detection in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models requires multiple technical considerations. First, implement a sensitive sample preparation protocol that includes phosphatase and protease inhibitors to preserve GLDC integrity, as it can be susceptible to degradation in complex PDX tissue . Consider subcellular fractionation to enrich for mitochondria where GLDC is primarily localized . For detection, employ a tyramide signal amplification (TSA) system compatible with HRP to achieve 10-100 fold signal enhancement while maintaining specificity. Use extended incubation times (overnight at 4°C) with dilutions more concentrated than standard protocols (1:500 rather than 1:1000) . For immunohistochemical applications, biotin-free detection systems can reduce background in PDX tissues that often contain endogenous biotin. Additionally, careful titration of antibody concentration against signal-to-noise ratio is essential, as PDX models present complex matrices where non-specific binding can be problematic . Validation of specificity against GLDC-knockout controls is strongly recommended to confirm that signals represent true GLDC detection rather than cross-reactivity in the heterogeneous PDX environment.
The methodological approach for detecting P-protein versus GLDC within the glycine cleavage system requires distinct strategies due to their different structural and functional properties. GLDC (P-protein) is a 113 kDa homodimeric pyridoxal phosphate-dependent decarboxylase that constitutes one of four components in the glycine cleavage system . When using HRP-conjugated antibodies, detecting GLDC requires optimization for mitochondrial membrane proteins, including more stringent extraction buffers containing 0.5-1% Triton X-100 or NP-40 to solubilize the protein effectively from mitochondrial membranes . In contrast, H-protein detection (which interacts with GLDC in the glycine cleavage system) typically requires milder extraction conditions as it is a smaller, more soluble lipoamide-containing protein. Epitope accessibility is another critical difference - GLDC antibodies targeting amino acids 868-984 or 627-833 recognize distinct structural domains that may be differentially accessible in experimental contexts . For multiplexed detection of multiple glycine cleavage system components, sequential antibody stripping and reprobing is recommended over simultaneous detection to prevent steric hindrance issues, as these proteins exist in a multi-component complex in vivo .
Validating HRP-conjugated GLDC antibody specificity in tissues containing potential cross-reactive proteins requires a multi-parameter approach. Begin with a preabsorption test where the antibody is pre-incubated with excess recombinant GLDC protein (corresponding to the target epitope, such as amino acids 868-984 or 627-833) before tissue application; this should abolish specific staining while leaving any non-specific signals intact . Incorporate parallel staining with multiple antibodies targeting different GLDC epitopes - concordance between distinct antibodies supports specificity . For definitive validation, include positive controls (tissues with known high GLDC expression, such as liver) and negative controls (GLDC-knockdown or knockout tissues) in each experiment . Western blot analysis should reveal a single band at 113 kDa, with additional bands suggesting cross-reactivity . In tissues with known high expression of proteins sharing homology with GLDC, such as other pyridoxal phosphate-dependent enzymes, competitive binding experiments with recombinant versions of these related proteins can help distinguish specific from non-specific binding. Finally, for tissues with complex matrices, consider using dilution series beyond the manufacturer's recommendations to identify the optimal signal-to-noise ratio specific to that tissue type .
Multiplex immunohistochemistry combining HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies with other mitochondrial markers presents several technical challenges requiring specific optimizations. Since GLDC is localized to mitochondria, spatial resolution and signal separation from other mitochondrial proteins is critical . For HRP-based multiplex approaches, sequential tyramide signal amplification (TSA) with complete HRP inactivation between rounds using hydrogen peroxide treatment (3% for 15-30 minutes) is essential to prevent signal crosstalk . Antibody elution between rounds must be optimized to remove previous antibodies while preserving epitopes; a mild stripping buffer (glycine-HCl, pH 2.5) is often suitable for HRP-conjugated antibodies . When selecting antibodies for multiplexing, consider host species diversity - combine rabbit polyclonal HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies with mouse-derived antibodies for other mitochondrial markers to facilitate distinction . Spectral overlap must be addressed with appropriate fluorophore selection when using fluorescent detection systems following HRP-TSA. For optimal co-localization studies, super-resolution microscopy techniques may be necessary to resolve the spatial relationship between GLDC and other mitochondrial proteins within the same organelle. Finally, automated image analysis algorithms should be calibrated to account for the densely packed nature of mitochondria to accurately quantify co-localization coefficients .
Developing a quantitative ELISA for measuring GLDC protein levels across tumor types requires careful optimization of multiple parameters. Begin by selecting capture and detection antibody pairs that target non-overlapping epitopes of GLDC; for instance, combining an antibody targeting amino acids 627-833 for capture with an HRP-conjugated antibody targeting amino acids 868-984 for detection . The capture antibody should be coated at 1-10 μg/ml in carbonate buffer (pH 9.6) overnight at 4°C, followed by thorough blocking with 1-5% BSA . For sample preparation, standardize a tissue lysis protocol that effectively solubilizes mitochondrial proteins while preserving GLDC epitopes; a buffer containing 1% Triton X-100, 150 mM NaCl, 50 mM Tris (pH 7.4) with protease inhibitors is often effective . To establish quantitation, generate a standard curve using recombinant GLDC protein at concentrations ranging from 10 pg/ml to 1000 ng/ml . For detection, optimize HRP-conjugated antibody concentration through systematic titration, typically starting at 1:1000 and testing 2-fold dilutions . The linear dynamic range should be determined for each tumor type, as GLDC expression varies significantly between tissues. To account for matrix effects in different tumor types, prepare standard curves in matched matrix (tumor lysate from GLDC-knockout samples) or use the method of standard additions. Validate assay performance parameters including lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), upper limit of quantification (ULOQ), precision (intra and inter-assay CV <15%), accuracy (80-120% recovery), and specificity through spike-recovery experiments in each tumor type of interest .
Fixation methods significantly impact epitope accessibility when using HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies for immunohistochemistry (IHC). Different fixatives create distinct chemical modifications that can either preserve or mask the target epitopes of GLDC. Paraformaldehyde (PFA) fixation (4%, 24-48 hours) generally preserves protein antigenicity but can induce cross-linking that masks certain epitopes, particularly affecting antibodies targeting amino acids 868-984 . Formalin fixation followed by paraffin embedding (FFPE) may require antigen retrieval methods, with heat-induced epitope retrieval (HIER) using citrate buffer (pH 6.0) or EDTA buffer (pH 9.0) showing superior results for most GLDC antibodies . For antibodies targeting the amino acid regions 627-833, trypsin-based enzymatic retrieval (0.05%, 10-15 minutes at 37°C) may provide better results than heat-based methods in certain tissue types . Acetone or methanol fixation (10 minutes at -20°C) can be suitable for frozen sections but may not adequately preserve mitochondrial morphology where GLDC is localized . Notably, glutaraldehyde should be avoided as it creates extensive cross-linking that frequently masks GLDC epitopes beyond recovery. When optimizing fixation protocols, researchers should conduct parallel experiments with different fixation methods on the same tissue source to identify the optimal approach for their specific GLDC antibody conjugate and tissue type .
Designing protocols for simultaneous analysis of GLDC protein levels and enzymatic activity requires careful methodological coordination to preserve both parameters. A sequential approach is recommended, beginning with enzymatic activity assessment followed by protein detection . For enzymatic activity, fresh tissue or cell samples should be gently homogenized in a mitochondria-preserving buffer (250 mM sucrose, 10 mM HEPES, pH 7.4) and assayed for GLDC activity by measuring the release of CO₂ from ¹⁴C-labeled glycine or through a coupled assay system tracking NAD⁺ reduction to NADH . Following activity measurement, the same samples can be processed for protein detection using HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies. For tissue sections, an innovative approach involves performing enzyme histochemistry for dehydrogenase activity using nitro blue tetrazolium (which forms a formazan precipitate at sites of activity) followed by immunohistochemistry with HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies visualized with a contrasting chromogen such as DAB . Digital image analysis can then quantify both signals to establish protein-activity relationships. Importantly, sample preparation must avoid denaturants (SDS, urea) that would abolish enzymatic activity while still enabling epitope access for the HRP-conjugated antibody. Temperature control is critical throughout the dual-analysis protocol, as GLDC enzymatic activity is highly temperature-sensitive while antibody binding kinetics are less affected .
Distinguishing specific GLDC signals from background in tissues with high endogenous peroxidase activity (such as liver, kidney, and erythrocyte-rich samples) requires rigorous methodological controls . First, implement thorough endogenous peroxidase quenching by treating tissues with 3% hydrogen peroxide in methanol for 15-30 minutes, followed by 0.3% hydrogen peroxide in 0.1% sodium azide for particularly resistant tissues . For fluorescence-based detection systems coupled with HRP-conjugated antibodies, consider using tyramide signal amplification (TSA) with fluorophores excited at wavelengths distinct from tissue autofluorescence (typically >540 nm) . Include multiple controls in parallel sections: (1) omission of primary antibody, (2) isotype-matched irrelevant antibody controls, and (3) competitive inhibition with recombinant GLDC protein . For tissues with extremely high endogenous peroxidase, consider alternative detection systems such as alkaline phosphatase, or implement dual quenching with hydrogen peroxide followed by levamisole treatment . Differential quenching can also be informative - compare signal patterns after peroxidase quenching versus without quenching to identify regions of overlap (likely specific) versus regions only appearing without quenching (likely endogenous peroxidase) . Finally, parallel validation with non-HRP detection methods, such as immunofluorescence, can confirm that the observed pattern is genuinely GLDC-specific rather than an artifact of endogenous peroxidase activity .
Optimizing HRP-conjugated GLDC antibodies for automated immunohistochemistry platforms requires attention to several critical parameters. Antibody concentration requires precise calibration, with optimal dilutions typically 1.5-2 times more concentrated than manual protocols to compensate for the shorter incubation times common in automated systems . Antigen retrieval protocols must be standardized, with pH optimization being particularly important; GLDC epitopes in the 868-984 amino acid region often require high-pH EDTA buffer (pH 9.0) at 97°C for 20 minutes, while epitopes in the 627-833 region may perform better with citrate buffer (pH 6.0) . Blocking protocols should be extended (30-45 minutes) compared to manual methods to reduce background in automated systems where washing may be less thorough . For detection, polymer-based systems generally outperform avidin-biotin methods in automated platforms due to reduced background and improved signal localization for mitochondrial proteins like GLDC . Incubation temperature must be precisely controlled; automated systems running at ambient temperature may require longer incubation times compared to systems with heating capabilities . The composition of wash buffers significantly impacts results, with TBS-T (0.05% Tween-20) generally preferred over PBS-based buffers for HRP-conjugated antibodies to prevent phosphate interference with certain detection systems . Finally, automated platforms should be programmed to include a post-fixation step (10 minutes in 4% PFA) after antigen retrieval to prevent tissue detachment during subsequent processing, which is particularly important for GLDC detection in mitochondria-rich tissues .
Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) of GLDC protein can substantially alter epitope recognition by HRP-conjugated antibodies, impacting experimental outcomes. GLDC undergoes several key modifications including phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination that can either mask or expose specific epitopes . For antibodies targeting amino acids 627-833, phosphorylation sites at Ser673 and Thr680 can significantly reduce antibody binding affinity when phosphorylated, potentially yielding false-negative results in tissues with high kinase activity . Similarly, antibodies targeting the region 868-984 may be affected by acetylation at multiple lysine residues within this domain . To account for these modifications, researchers should consider parallel detection with multiple antibodies targeting different GLDC epitopes that may be differentially affected by PTMs . Dephosphorylation treatment of samples with lambda phosphatase prior to immunodetection can unmask epitopes hidden by phosphorylation events. Particularly in cancer tissues where PTM patterns are frequently altered, comparing detection patterns between HRP-conjugated antibodies targeting distinct epitopes can provide insights into the modification state of GLDC . Additionally, native versus denatured detection systems will yield different results, as conformational epitopes affected by PTMs may be destroyed during denaturation while linear epitopes become more accessible . Researchers investigating specific PTM states of GLDC should complement standard antibodies with modification-specific antibodies when available, or employ mass spectrometry analysis alongside immunodetection to comprehensively map PTM landscapes affecting epitope recognition .