LRRC3C (Leucine Rich Repeat Containing Protein 3C) is a protein characterized by leucine-rich repeat domains with a molecular weight of approximately 29,314 Da . It belongs to the broader family of leucine-rich repeat containing proteins that function in various cellular processes including signal transduction pathways. LRRC3C is primarily localized to the cell membrane and plays roles in protein-protein interactions and cellular signaling mechanisms .
Biotin conjugation represents a strategic modification of antibodies that significantly enhances their utility in various immunoassay applications. This process involves the covalent attachment of biotin molecules to specific regions of the antibody structure.
The conjugation typically targets the heavy chain units of antibodies, particularly at the C-terminus or the Fc region . This precise positioning ensures that the antigen-binding capacity of the antibody remains unaffected while providing a stable biotin tag for downstream applications. The most effective conjugation methods employ site-specific approaches that prevent random biotinylation, which could potentially interfere with antigen recognition sites.
Modern biotinylation techniques include:
Enzymatic biotinylation using Avi-Tag™ technology
Synthetic Z-domain approaches for directed conjugation
Chemical conjugation methods using NHS-biotin reagents
Enzymatic biotinylation represents one of the most precise approaches, offering high specificity and control over the biotinylation site. When applied to antibodies targeting LRRC3C, these methods ensure optimal performance in subsequent detection applications .
Biotin-conjugated antibodies offer several significant advantages over unconjugated counterparts:
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Signal Amplification | Biotin's high affinity for streptavidin (Kd = 10^-15 M) allows for exceptional signal enhancement |
| Versatility | Compatible with multiple detection platforms including ELISA, Western blot, and flow cytometry |
| Stability | Biotin-streptavidin interactions resist extreme pH, temperature, and organic solvents |
| Multivalent Binding | Each streptavidin molecule can bind four biotin molecules, enhancing sensitivity |
| Compatibility | Works with various secondary detection systems including HRP, AP, and fluorophores |
These characteristics make biotin-conjugated antibodies particularly valuable for detecting proteins like LRRC3C that may be present at low concentrations in biological samples .
The production of biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies involves several critical steps to ensure specificity and functionality. Based on analogous production methods for biotinylated antibodies, the process typically involves:
Generation of primary antibodies against LRRC3C using recombinant LRRC3C protein as immunogen
Purification of the antibodies using affinity chromatography techniques
Biotin conjugation through chemical or enzymatic methods
Final purification to remove unconjugated biotin and validation of conjugation efficiency
For mouse LRRC3C antibodies, the immunogen typically consists of purified recombinant LRRC3C protein or synthetic peptides corresponding to specific regions of the protein . The resulting antibodies are then subjected to biotin conjugation procedures that attach biotin molecules to the antibody structure without compromising its antigen-binding capacity.
The biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibody formulation typically exhibits the following characteristics:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Antibody Type | Polyclonal/Monoclonal |
| Host Species | Typically Rabbit |
| Format | Biotin-conjugated IgG |
| Conjugation Method | Enzymatic or chemical biotinylation |
| Biotinylation Efficiency | ≥90% |
| Storage Buffer | Phosphate buffered solution with stabilizers (e.g., glycerol) |
| pH | 7.2-7.4 |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C |
| Shelf Life | 12 months when properly stored |
These properties ensure optimal performance in various immunological applications while maintaining stability during storage and use .
LRRC3C Antibody, Biotin conjugated plays a crucial role in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for the quantification of LRRC3C in biological samples. The biotin-streptavidin system provides significant signal amplification, enhancing assay sensitivity.
In sandwich ELISA formats, the typical protocol involves:
Coating microtiter plates with a capture antibody specific to LRRC3C
Adding samples containing the target LRRC3C protein
Introducing biotin-conjugated anti-LRRC3C antibody as the detection antibody
Adding avidin/streptavidin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase (HRP)
Developing with TMB substrate and measuring optical density at 450 nm
This methodology allows for detection of LRRC3C within a range of 0.156-10 ng/mL, with a sensitivity as low as 0.068-0.071 ng/mL . The standard curve typically follows a four-parameter logistic fit, as demonstrated in the following data from a representative LRRC3C ELISA:
| Concentration (ng/mL) | OD | Corrected OD |
|---|---|---|
| 10.00 | 2.096 | 2.000 |
| 5.00 | 1.673 | 1.577 |
| 2.50 | 1.067 | 0.971 |
| 1.25 | 0.897 | 0.801 |
| 0.63 | 0.517 | 0.421 |
| 0.32 | 0.324 | 0.228 |
| 0.16 | 0.161 | 0.065 |
| 0.00 | 0.096 | 0.000 |
The precision of these assays is typically excellent, with intra-assay CV less than 8% and inter-assay CV less than 10% .
LRRC3C Antibody, Biotin conjugated provides enhanced signal detection in Western blot applications. The recommended dilution range for Western blot applications is typically 1:300-5000, depending on the specific antibody and sample conditions .
The biotin conjugation enables signal amplification through interactions with streptavidin-HRP complexes, significantly improving the detection of low-abundance LRRC3C protein in complex sample matrices. This approach is particularly valuable when analyzing tissue homogenates where LRRC3C expression may be limited.
The biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibody is valuable for tissue localization studies. In immunohistochemistry applications, the biotin-conjugated antibody enables:
Precise visualization of LRRC3C distribution in tissue sections
Signal amplification through avidin-biotin complexes
Compatibility with both paraffin-embedded and frozen tissue sections
Dual labeling possibilities with other antibodies
When used in immunofluorescence applications, the biotin-conjugated antibody can be detected using fluorophore-labeled streptavidin, allowing for multicolor imaging when combined with other antibodies with different conjugates .
High specificity is a critical characteristic of LRRC3C antibodies. The biotin-conjugated versions maintain this specificity while adding detection advantages. Based on analogous antibody production methods, these antibodies typically show:
High reactivity to LRRC3C in mouse and/or human samples
Minimal cross-reactivity with other leucine-rich repeat containing proteins
Validated performance in specific applications such as ELISA and Western blot
Specificity testing often involves competitive binding assays and pre-absorption studies to ensure minimal cross-reactivity with other proteins. Documentation typically indicates that "no significant cross-reactivity or interference between Leucine Rich Repeat Containing Protein 3C (LRRC3C) and analogues was observed" .
Biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies serve as valuable tools in various research contexts:
Signal Transduction Studies: Investigating LRRC3C's role in cellular signaling pathways
Protein-Protein Interaction Analysis: Identifying binding partners through proximity labeling approaches
Expression Profiling: Quantifying LRRC3C levels in different tissues and disease states
Immunoprecipitation: Isolating LRRC3C and associated protein complexes
The biotin conjugation provides significant advantages in proximity labeling applications, where the antibody can guide biotin deposition onto adjacent proteins in fixed cells and tissues. This approach can reveal the interactome of LRRC3C in various cellular contexts, providing insights into its function and regulation .
When working with biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies, several technical considerations deserve attention:
Biotin Interference: Endogenous biotin in biological samples may compete with the biotin-conjugated antibody, potentially affecting assay performance. This is particularly relevant in samples from biotin-rich tissues or subjects receiving biotin supplements.
Antibody Immunogenicity: As demonstrated in studies with biotin-labeled red blood cells, biotinylated proteins can elicit immune responses in some subjects. This becomes relevant when considering in vivo applications or repeated exposures .
Optimization of Biotin Density: The density of biotin conjugation can significantly impact antibody performance. Higher biotin density may increase detection sensitivity but could potentially interfere with antigen binding or increase non-specific interactions .
Storage and Stability: Biotin-conjugated antibodies generally require storage at -20°C with glycerol as a cryoprotectant to maintain functionality. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided to preserve activity .
LRRC3C (Leucine Rich Repeat Containing Protein 3C) is a single-pass membrane protein with a molecular weight of approximately 29,314 Da . The protein is characterized by leucine-rich repeat domains, which typically function in protein-protein interactions and ligand binding.
Current research indicates that LRRC3C is primarily localized to cellular membranes, suggesting potential roles in cell signaling, membrane organization, or receptor functions . Despite increasing research interest, the precise biological function of LRRC3C remains largely undetermined, making it an important target for ongoing investigation in cellular biology research .
When developing experimental approaches to study this protein, researchers should consider its membrane localization when selecting lysis buffers and extraction protocols to ensure optimal protein recovery.
Biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies serve as versatile tools in multiple experimental platforms:
Western Blotting: Detection of LRRC3C in protein lysates with enhanced sensitivity due to biotin-streptavidin amplification systems
ELISA: Quantitative measurement of LRRC3C in tissue homogenates and biological samples
Immunohistochemistry: Localization of LRRC3C in tissue sections with signal amplification capabilities
Flow Cytometry: Analysis of LRRC3C expression in cell populations
Immunoprecipitation: Isolation of LRRC3C and associated protein complexes
The biotin-conjugation provides significant advantages in experimental design, particularly when working with low-abundance targets, as the biotin-streptavidin interaction enables signal amplification through multiple binding sites, improving detection sensitivity across various assay formats .
For optimal maintenance of biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibody functionality, the following storage and handling protocols are recommended:
Short-term storage: Store at +4°C for periods of less than one week
Stability: When properly stored, biotin-conjugated antibodies typically remain stable for 12 months at -20°C
Critical consideration: Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, as they can lead to protein denaturation and loss of binding activity
When working with biotin-conjugated antibodies, it's advisable to prepare small working aliquots to minimize freeze-thaw cycles. Additionally, all buffers used should be prepared with high-purity reagents to prevent contamination with biotin or biotin-binding proteins that might interfere with detection systems.
A robust experimental design incorporating the following controls is essential for obtaining reliable results with biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies:
| Control Type | Implementation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Isotype Control | Use biotin-conjugated rabbit IgG (for rabbit-derived LRRC3C antibodies) | Assesses non-specific binding due to antibody class |
| Negative Control | Omit primary antibody but include detection reagents | Evaluates background from secondary detection system |
| Blocking Control | Pre-incubate with free biotin | Confirms specificity of streptavidin-biotin interaction |
| Tissue/Cell Controls | Include known positive and negative samples | Validates antibody specificity for target |
| Peptide Competition | Pre-incubate antibody with immunizing peptide | Confirms epitope-specific binding |
Additionally, when implementing multiplexed detection systems, single-stain controls should be included to assess spectral overlap and optimize compensation settings .
The inclusion of these controls allows for proper interpretation of experimental results and troubleshooting of potential methodological issues, particularly when working with proteins like LRRC3C where functional characterization is still evolving.
The choice between biotin-conjugated and directly labeled antibodies involves distinct methodological considerations:
Biotin-Conjugated Antibodies:
Detection mechanism: Requires a secondary step with streptavidin/avidin conjugated to detection molecules (enzymes, fluorophores)
Signal amplification: Offers enhanced sensitivity through multiple biotin-binding sites on streptavidin (up to 4 biotin molecules per streptavidin)
Protocol complexity: Requires additional incubation and washing steps
Flexibility: One biotin-conjugated antibody can be used with various streptavidin-reporter conjugates
Directly Labeled Antibodies:
For LRRC3C detection, biotin-conjugated antibodies are particularly advantageous when working with low-abundance targets or when maximum sensitivity is required, as the signal amplification capabilities can significantly improve detection thresholds in various applications .
Cross-reactivity poses a significant challenge in antibody-based detection. To minimize this issue with biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies, implement these research-validated approaches:
Epitope selection: Use antibodies targeting unique epitopes in the C-terminal region (234-260 amino acids) of LRRC3C to reduce homology-based cross-reactivity
Blocking optimization: Employ a multi-component blocking solution containing:
Antibody titration: Determine optimal antibody concentration through systematic dilution series to identify the concentration providing maximum specific signal with minimal background
Absorption techniques: Pre-absorb antibodies with tissue/cell lysates known to express potential cross-reactive proteins
Validation across methods: Confirm specificity using orthogonal techniques (e.g., if using for IHC, validate with Western blot)
The implementation of computational models for predicting epitope specificity, as demonstrated in recent studies, can also guide antibody selection to minimize potential cross-reactivity issues .
Recent advances in computational immunology enable the rational design of antibodies with precisely tailored binding profiles for targets like LRRC3C:
Binding mode identification: Computational models can identify distinct antibody binding modes associated with particular epitopes, allowing for the discrimination between structurally similar targets
Energy function optimization: By optimizing energy functions associated with specific binding modes, researchers can design antibodies with either high specificity for a single epitope or cross-specificity for multiple predefined epitopes
Sequence-based prediction: Machine learning approaches trained on high-throughput sequencing data from phage display experiments can predict the binding characteristics of novel antibody sequences not present in training datasets
Implementation methodology:
Generate a diverse antibody library (e.g., focused on CDR3 variation)
Perform selections against the target (LRRC3C) and related proteins
Sequence the enriched library
Build computational models relating sequence features to binding properties
Design novel sequences with optimized binding profiles using the trained model
This computational approach has been experimentally validated for designing antibodies with customized specificity profiles, demonstrating successful discrimination between chemically similar ligands . For LRRC3C research, this methodology could be particularly valuable given the limited characterization of this protein, allowing for the development of highly specific detection reagents.
Developing robust quantitative assays for LRRC3C requires systematic optimization of multiple parameters:
Antibody pair selection: For sandwich-based assays, identify capture and detection antibody pairs recognizing distinct, non-overlapping epitopes of LRRC3C
Standard curve development: Generate recombinant LRRC3C protein or synthetic peptide standards encompassing the target epitope range (e.g., 234-260 aa) for absolute quantification
Assay format optimization:
| Parameter | Consideration | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| Plate coating | Surface chemistry | Compare high-binding vs. covalent immobilization surfaces |
| Blocking | Nonspecific binding | Optimize blocking buffer composition and incubation time |
| Sample preparation | Matrix effects | Evaluate diluents to minimize matrix interference |
| Detection system | Signal development | Optimize streptavidin-conjugate concentration and incubation time |
Assay validation metrics:
Signal amplification: For detecting low-abundance LRRC3C, implement tyramide signal amplification (TSA) or poly-HRP systems in conjunction with biotin-streptavidin detection
The development of chemiluminescent immunoassays for LRRC3C, as described in available protocols, provides a sensitive quantitation method with detection limits suitable for most biological samples .
Integrating biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies into multiplex detection systems requires careful consideration of several technical aspects:
Spatial separation strategies:
Spectral multiplexing: Use spectrally distinct fluorophores conjugated to streptavidin when working with multiple biotin-conjugated antibodies
Sequential detection: Implement multi-round staining with biotin blocking between rounds
Microarray formats: Spatially separate capture antibodies in microwell or microarray formats
Antibody compatibility assessment:
Signal optimization for multiplex detection:
Advanced multiplexing techniques:
Recent advances in multiplexed detection systems have successfully integrated biotin-conjugated antibodies for simultaneous detection of multiple targets, providing a framework for including LRRC3C in comprehensive protein profiling studies .
When encountering inconsistent results with biotin-conjugated LRRC3C antibodies, a systematic troubleshooting approach is essential:
Antibody validation assessment:
Sample preparation optimization:
Detection system evaluation:
| Issue | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| High background | Endogenous biotin or biotin-binding proteins | Add avidin/streptavidin blocking step |
| Weak signal | Insufficient biotin molecules per antibody | Switch to higher degree of biotinylation |
| Variable results | Biotin-streptavidin binding interference | Use biotin-free blocking reagents |
| Non-specific bands | Cross-reactivity | Increase stringency of washes or use monoclonal antibodies |
Technical factors assessment:
Biological variability consideration:
Implementation of this systematic troubleshooting approach can help identify the source of inconsistency and establish reliable protocols for LRRC3C detection using biotin-conjugated antibodies.