The production of the KLHDC3 polyclonal antibody begins with the selection of a recombinant human KLHDC3 protein segment (amino acids 1-382) as the immunogen. This protein is employed to immunize a rabbit, resulting in an antibody response. The serum is then collected from the rabbit to extract polyclonal antibodies. These antibodies are subsequently purified via affinity chromatography, isolating them based on their specific reactivity to KLHDC3 protein. A thorough validation process confirms the antibody's specificity for human KLHDC3 protein in ELISA and WB assays.
KLHDC3 acts as an adaptor protein within the CRL2 complex, forming interactions with the C-terminal degron of p14ARF. This interaction leads to the proteasomal degradation of p14ARF in various cancer cell lines. Consequently, the CRL2-KLHDC3 E3 complex alleviates p14ARF-mediated inhibition of SLC7A11 transcription, thereby suppressing ferroptosis and promoting the pro-tumorigenic functions of KLHDC3.
The KLHDC3 polyclonal antibody is produced using a recombinant human KLHDC3 protein segment (amino acids 1-382) as the immunogen. This protein is used to immunize a rabbit, eliciting an antibody response. Serum is then collected from the rabbit to extract polyclonal antibodies, which are further purified via affinity chromatography. This purification process isolates antibodies based on their specific reactivity to the KLHDC3 protein. Rigorous validation confirms the antibody's specificity for human KLHDC3 protein in ELISA and Western blot assays.
KLHDC3 acts as an adaptor protein within the CRL2 complex, interacting with the C-terminal degron of p14ARF. This interaction results in the proteasomal degradation of p14ARF in various cancer cell lines. Consequently, the CRL2-KLHDC3 E3 complex alleviates p14ARF-mediated inhibition of SLC7A11 transcription, thereby suppressing ferroptosis and promoting the pro-tumorigenic functions of KLHDC3.
KLHDC3 is a substrate-recognition component of a Cul2-RING (CRL2) E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase complex within the DesCEND (destruction via C-end degrons) pathway. This complex recognizes a C-degron located at the extreme C-terminus of target proteins, leading to their ubiquitination and degradation. The C-degron recognized by the DesCEND pathway is usually a motif of less than ten residues and can be present in full-length proteins, truncated proteins, or proteolytically cleaved forms.
The CRL2(KLHDC3) complex specifically recognizes proteins with a glycine (Gly) at the C-terminus, leading to their ubiquitination and degradation. It recognizes the C-terminal -Arg-(Xaa)n-Arg-Gly, -Arg-(Xaa)n-Lys-Gly, and -Arg-(Xaa)n-Gln-Gly degrons. This complex mediates ubiquitination and degradation of truncated SELENOV and SEPHS2 selenoproteins produced by failed UGA/Sec decoding, which end with a glycine. KLHDC3 may also be involved in meiotic recombination processes.
KLHDC3 (Kelch domain-containing protein 3, also known as PEAS) is a protein containing six Kelch domains and a BC-box/CUL2-box motif. It functions as a substrate-recognition component of a Cul2-RING (CRL2) E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase complex within the DesCEND (destruction via C-end degrons) pathway .
KLHDC3 primarily:
Recognizes specific C-degrons located at the extreme C-terminus of target proteins
Mediates ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation of these targets
May be involved in meiotic recombination processes
Plays a role in protein quality control by degrading truncated proteins
The CRL2-KLHDC3 complex specifically recognizes proteins with glycine (Gly) at the C-terminus, particularly those with C-terminal motifs such as -Arg-(Xaa)n-Arg-Gly, -Arg-(Xaa)n-Lys-Gly, and -Arg-(Xaa)n-Gln-Gly .
KLHDC3 antibodies have been validated for multiple research applications, with variations in effectiveness depending on the specific antibody clone:
Researchers should note that optimal dilutions may vary based on the specific antibody clone and experimental conditions. A titration series is recommended when using a new antibody or testing a new experimental system .
Based on the available research data, KLHDC3 antibodies have demonstrated reactivity with:
This cross-species reactivity makes these antibodies valuable for comparative studies across mammalian models. When selecting an antibody for specific research purposes, check the validation data for the particular species of interest, as reactivity can vary between antibody clones.
For optimal immunohistochemical detection of KLHDC3 in tissue samples:
Tissue preparation:
Staining protocol:
Block endogenous peroxidase (3% H₂O₂, 10 minutes)
Protein blocking (5% normal serum, 1 hour)
Primary antibody incubation (1:50-1:500 dilution, overnight at 4°C)
Secondary antibody detection (compatible with primary antibody host)
Chromogenic detection (DAB substrate)
Counterstain (hematoxylin)
Validation controls:
The best results have been reported in testis tissues where KLHDC3 shows distinct nuclear and cytoplasmic staining patterns .
KLHDC3 functions as a critical negative regulator of ferroptosis through a p14 ARF-dependent mechanism :
Molecular mechanism:
KLHDC3, as part of the CRL2 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, directly binds to p14 ARF via its Kelch domains
This interaction promotes p14 ARF translocation from nucleoli to nucleoplasm for degradation
Degradation of p14 ARF prevents its inhibitory effect on NRF2 activation
NRF2 upregulates SLC7A11 expression, a cystine/glutamate antiporter
SLC7A11 increases cystine uptake, leading to enhanced glutathione synthesis and ferroptosis resistance
Experimental evidence:
KLHDC3 knockout cells show increased p14 ARF protein levels but not mRNA levels
KLHDC3 knockout cells are more sensitive to ferroptosis inducers (erastin and cystine deprivation)
This sensitivity can be reversed by p14 ARF depletion or SLC7A11 overexpression
In xenograft models, KLHDC3 knockout suppresses tumor growth in a partially p14 ARF-dependent manner
This pathway represents a novel regulatory mechanism for ferroptosis that is independent of p53 status, making it potentially relevant for cancer types with p53 mutations or deletions.
Recent structural studies have revealed key determinants of substrate specificity in KLHDC3-mediated protein degradation :
C-terminus anchor motif:
KLHDC3 contains a conserved motif that anchors substrate C-termini
This motif is positioned in a specific blade of the β-propeller structure, creating a distinct molecular environment
The position differs from related proteins (KLHDC2, KLHDC10), contributing to substrate selectivity
Pre-formed recognition pocket:
KLHDC3 possesses a pre-formed pocket with preference for Arg or Gln preceding a C-terminal Gly
This structural feature establishes the basis for recognizing specific C-degron sequences:
-Arg-(Xaa)n-Arg-Gly
-Arg-(Xaa)n-Lys-Gly
-Arg-(Xaa)n-Gln-Gly
Additional interaction surfaces:
Distinguishing between closely related KLHDCX family members presents a significant challenge in experimental settings. Here's a methodological approach:
Antibody-based differentiation:
Use antibodies targeting unique epitopes not conserved among family members
Validate specificity through knockout/knockdown controls for each family member
Employ epitope-tagging strategies when studying exogenously expressed proteins
Functional discrimination:
Substrate specificity analysis:
Phenotypic effects:
Expression pattern analysis:
This multi-faceted approach allows researchers to reliably distinguish between closely related family members when interpreting experimental results.
For successful co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) experiments investigating KLHDC3 and its interacting partners:
Lysis buffer optimization:
Immunoprecipitation protocol:
For epitope-tagged KLHDC3:
For endogenous KLHDC3:
Pre-clear lysates with protein A/G beads
Incubate with KLHDC3 antibody (2-5 μg) overnight at 4°C
Capture with protein A/G beads
Wash stringently (at least 4 times) with lysis buffer
Elute by boiling in SDS sample buffer
Controls and validation:
Following this optimized protocol has enabled researchers to identify key KLHDC3 interactions, including those with CUL2, RBX1, and p14 ARF, providing insights into its biological functions.
Rigorous validation of KLHDC3 antibody specificity is essential for reliable experimental results. A comprehensive approach includes:
Genetic validation:
Multiple antibody comparison:
Recombinant protein controls:
Overexpression of tagged KLHDC3
Competition assays with immunizing peptide
Correlation between overexpression and signal intensity
Protocol-specific validations:
This multi-layered validation approach ensures antibody specificity and enhances reproducibility of KLHDC3-related research findings.
KLHDC3 has emerged as a potential oncogene with significant implications for cancer research:
Expression patterns in cancer:
Functional significance in cancer:
Research applications of KLHDC3 antibodies in cancer studies:
Expression profiling across cancer types and correlation with clinical outcomes
Investigation of KLHDC3 subcellular localization in normal versus cancer cells
Identification of novel KLHDC3 substrates in cancer contexts
Development of therapeutic strategies targeting KLHDC3-mediated pathways
Therapeutic implications:
KLHDC3 antibodies thus provide crucial tools for understanding its expression, localization, and functional interactions in cancer, potentially leading to new diagnostic or therapeutic strategies.
Investigating KLHDC3's function in protein degradation pathways requires careful methodological considerations:
Substrate half-life analysis:
Cycloheximide chase assays:
Pulse-chase experiments:
Label newly synthesized proteins with radioactive amino acids
Chase with non-radioactive medium
Immunoprecipitate proteins of interest
Analyze decay rates in different cellular contexts
Ubiquitination assays:
In vivo ubiquitination:
In vitro reconstitution:
Purify recombinant CRL2-KLHDC3 complex components
Combine with E1, E2, ubiquitin, ATP, and substrate
Analyze ubiquitination by SDS-PAGE and Western blot
Substrate recognition analysis:
Proteasome involvement:
These methodological approaches provide a comprehensive framework for investigating KLHDC3's role in protein degradation pathways and identifying its physiological substrates.
To systematically investigate KLHDC3's role in ferroptosis regulation across cell types:
Experimental model development:
Generate KLHDC3 knockout/knockdown in multiple cell types:
Cancer cell lines with varying p53 status (e.g., H1299, SKOV3, OVCAR-3, SJSA)
Normal cell counterparts (e.g., fibroblasts, epithelial cells)
Immune cells (potential non-cancer applications)
Create rescue models with wild-type or mutant KLHDC3 (e.g., BC-box/CUL2-box mutants)
Ferroptosis sensitivity assessment:
Mechanistic pathway analysis:
Therapeutic relevance assessment:
This comprehensive experimental approach allows for a detailed understanding of KLHDC3's role in ferroptosis across different cellular contexts, potentially identifying context-dependent effects and therapeutic opportunities.
For effective multiplexed detection of KLHDC3 and its interaction partners:
Immunofluorescence co-localization:
Primary antibody selection:
Choose antibodies from different host species (e.g., rabbit anti-KLHDC3 and mouse anti-p14 ARF)
Validate antibodies individually before multiplexing
Ensure non-overlapping emission spectra
Detection strategy:
Sequential staining for closely positioned epitopes
Include appropriate blocking steps between primary antibodies
Utilize spectral unmixing for overlapping fluorophores
Analysis:
Proximity ligation assay (PLA):
Particularly useful for detecting KLHDC3 interactions in situ
Provides higher specificity than conventional co-localization
Requires careful optimization of primary antibody concentrations
Include negative controls (non-interacting proteins)
Multiplexed co-immunoprecipitation:
Imaging mass cytometry/multiplexed ion beam imaging:
For tissue-level analysis of multiple proteins
Use metal-conjugated antibodies against KLHDC3 and interaction partners
Allows simultaneous detection of >40 proteins
Provides spatial context for protein interactions
These approaches enable comprehensive analysis of KLHDC3's interactome in different cellular contexts, advancing understanding of its diverse functions.
Researchers frequently encounter several challenges when working with KLHDC3 antibodies. Here are solutions to common issues:
High background in Western blots:
Weak or absent signal in immunostaining:
Optimize antigen retrieval (TE buffer pH 9.0 recommended for KLHDC3)
Increase antibody concentration (start with 1:50 dilution for IHC)
Extend primary antibody incubation (overnight at 4°C)
Use signal amplification systems (HRP polymers, tyramide signal amplification)
Consider sample fixation method (over-fixation can mask epitopes)
Multiple bands in Western blot:
Low reproducibility between experiments:
Standardize lysate preparation and protein quantification
Use consistent cell culture conditions
Prepare antibody aliquots to avoid freeze-thaw cycles
Include loading controls and normalization
Consider lot-to-lot variations in antibodies
These troubleshooting strategies should address most common issues encountered when working with KLHDC3 antibodies across different applications.
Cross-reactivity between closely related KLHDCX family members presents a significant challenge. Here's a systematic approach to address this issue:
Antibody selection and validation:
Specificity controls in experimental systems:
Include single and multiple KLHDCX family member knockdown/knockout controls
Perform rescue experiments with specific family members
Use epitope-tagged versions when studying exogenous expression
Verify results with multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes
Bioinformatic sequence analysis:
Align sequences of KLHDCX family members
Identify unique regions/peptides for each family member
Perform epitope mapping to determine antibody binding sites
Use this information to predict potential cross-reactivity
Application-specific considerations:
Western blot: Use high-resolution gels to separate similar molecular weight proteins
Immunoprecipitation: Validate with mass spectrometry to confirm identity
Immunostaining: Compare with known expression patterns and subcellular localization
Flow cytometry: Include isotype controls and blocking peptides
By implementing these strategies, researchers can minimize cross-reactivity issues and ensure specific detection of KLHDC3 in their experimental systems.
When investigating KLHDC3-mediated protein degradation, a comprehensive set of controls should be included:
Genetic manipulation controls:
KLHDC3 knockout/knockdown:
Other CRL2 complex components:
Substrate manipulation:
C-terminal degron mutants
Truncation variants
Expression level controls
Pharmacological controls:
Proteasome inhibitors:
MG132, bortezomib (should block KLHDC3-mediated degradation)
Different concentrations and time points
Protein synthesis inhibitors:
Cycloheximide (for half-life measurements)
Control for non-specific effects on cellular physiology
E1 inhibitors:
MLN7243/TAK-243 (should prevent ubiquitination)
Establish ubiquitin-dependence of degradation
Mechanistic controls:
Technical controls:
Several cutting-edge approaches are advancing our understanding of KLHDC3 substrate specificity and disease relevance:
Global C-terminomics approaches:
Structural biology advances:
High-throughput screening platforms:
Peptide arrays displaying diverse C-terminal sequences
Reporter-based degradation assays
CRISPR screens for synthetic lethality with KLHDC3 deficiency
These methods identify determinants of substrate recognition and cellular contexts where KLHDC3 is essential
Disease-relevant applications:
These emerging approaches will significantly advance our understanding of KLHDC3 biology and potentially reveal new therapeutic opportunities in diseases where KLHDC3 dysfunction plays a role.
Recent and emerging advances in antibody technology offer significant potential to enhance KLHDC3 research:
Recombinant antibody technologies:
Advanced validation technologies:
Multi-epitope targeting strategies:
Cocktails of antibodies targeting different KLHDC3 epitopes
Bispecific antibodies for enhanced specificity
Domain-specific antibodies to distinguish functional regions
These approaches provide more comprehensive information about KLHDC3 biology
Functional antibody applications:
Conformation-specific antibodies to detect active/inactive KLHDC3 states
Antibodies that selectively block substrate binding without affecting CRL2 complex formation
Intracellular targeting strategies for functional manipulation
These tools would allow precise dissection of KLHDC3 functions
Imaging applications:
Super-resolution compatible antibodies
Site-specific labeling for single-molecule studies
Proximity labeling antibody conjugates
These advances enable detailed analysis of KLHDC3 localization and dynamics
These technological innovations promise to address current limitations in KLHDC3 research tools and facilitate deeper understanding of its functions and disease relevance.
KLHDC3 shows promising potential as a therapeutic target, particularly in cancer, with antibody-based research playing a crucial role in development:
Therapeutic rationale:
KLHDC3 overexpression in multiple cancer types suggests oncogenic potential
KLHDC3 knockout suppresses tumor growth in xenograft models
KLHDC3 inhibition could restore p14 ARF tumor suppressor function
KLHDC3 targeting could sensitize cancer cells to ferroptosis, a novel cell death mechanism
CRL2-KLHDC3 represents a druggable E3 ligase complex
Target validation through antibody research:
Expression profiling across normal and disease tissues
Correlation with clinical outcomes and treatment responses
Identification of patient populations likely to benefit from KLHDC3 targeting
Elucidation of regulatory mechanisms controlling KLHDC3 expression
Therapeutic strategies enabled by antibody research:
Antibody-based therapeutics:
Antibody-drug conjugates targeting cancer cells with high KLHDC3 expression
Intracellular antibody delivery strategies
Bispecific antibodies linking KLHDC3 to immune effector cells
Combination strategies with ferroptosis inducers or checkpoint inhibitors
Biomarker development:
KLHDC3 expression/activity as predictive biomarker for targeted therapies
Monitoring treatment response through KLHDC3 substrate levels
Patient stratification based on KLHDC3 pathway activation