The MPN_083 antibody is a rabbit polyclonal antibody developed to target the MPN_083 protein in Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a pathogen associated with respiratory infections. MPN_083 is classified as an uncharacterized lipoprotein with a predicted role in bacterial surface dynamics and immune interaction . This antibody is primarily used in research applications, including Western blot analysis, to study MPN_083’s biological functions and its contribution to M. pneumoniae pathogenesis .
Parameter | Details |
---|---|
Host Species | Rabbit |
Conjugation Status | Unconjugated |
Antibody Type | Polyclonal |
Target Protein | MPN_083 (Uncharacterized lipoprotein, 22–242aa recombinant fragment) |
Storage Conditions | -20°C or -80°C (long-term) |
Buffer | 10 mM PBS with 50% glycerol and 0.03% ProClin 300 (pH 7.4) |
Concentration | 3.787 mg/mL |
Primary Applications | Western blot, direct ELISA |
MPN_083 is part of the M. pneumoniae surfaceome, with evidence of post-translational processing that may influence immune recognition .
Proteolytic cleavage of MPN_083 generates surface-accessible fragments, suggesting a dynamic role in bacterial-host interactions .
MPN_083 belongs to the DUF31 domain family, which includes peptidase-related proteins, though its enzymatic activity remains unconfirmed .
MPN_083 has been implicated in gliding motility, a critical virulence factor for M. pneumoniae. Transposon mutagenesis studies revealed that disruptions in MPN_083 (or its homologs) reduce gliding velocity, though its contribution appears less critical than well-characterized adhesins like P30 .
Proteolytic Cleavage: MPN_083 undergoes N-terminal truncation, generating smaller fragments (e.g., 15.6 kDa and 14.9 kDa) that remain surface-accessible . This processing may modulate immune recognition or host-pathogen interactions.
Surface Presentation: The antibody’s ability to detect MPN_083 in Western blot assays highlights its utility in studying protein localization and proteolytic regulation .
Note: MPN_083’s precise function remains distinct from characterized lipoproteins like MPN400 or P30, emphasizing the need for targeted studies .
KEGG: mpn:MPN083
MPN_083 is an uncharacterized lipoprotein found in Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a significant respiratory pathogen responsible for community-acquired pneumonia. Despite being classified as "uncharacterized," this protein represents an important target for research due to its potential role in bacterial pathogenesis. Lipoproteins in mycoplasma species often play crucial roles in membrane structure maintenance, nutrient acquisition, and host-pathogen interactions. The polyclonal antibody against MPN_083 serves as a valuable research tool for investigating the expression, localization, and function of this protein in Mycoplasma pneumoniae .
The significance of researching MPN_083 lies in expanding our understanding of mycoplasma biology and potentially uncovering new therapeutic targets. Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections are particularly challenging to treat due to increasing antibiotic resistance, making research into novel protein targets like MPN_083 valuable for future intervention strategies. Additionally, as an understudied protein, characterization efforts could reveal unexpected functions relevant to bacterial survival or virulence.
Current research indicates that the MPN_083 polyclonal antibody has been validated for direct-ELISA applications . This validation provides researchers with a reliable method for detecting and quantifying MPN_083 protein in experimental samples. When designing ELISA experiments using this antibody, researchers should follow standard ELISA protocols with appropriate optimization for antibody concentration, incubation times, and blocking agents.
Beyond the validated ELISA application, researchers frequently employ antibodies for additional experimental approaches, although specific validation for MPN_083 antibody in these contexts would require further testing. These potential applications include:
Western blotting for protein detection and size confirmation
Immunoprecipitation for protein-protein interaction studies
Immunofluorescence microscopy for cellular localization studies
Immunohistochemistry for tissue-based expression analysis
For each application, method-specific optimization would be necessary, following the general principle of antibody-based detection while adjusting for the specific biochemical and physical parameters of the MPN_083 protein.
Designing appropriate controls is critical for ensuring experimental validity when working with MPN_083 antibody. For positive controls, researchers should consider:
Recombinant MPN_083 protein at known concentrations to establish detection limits and antibody sensitivity
Mycoplasma pneumoniae lysates with confirmed MPN_083 expression
Transfected cell lines overexpressing tagged MPN_083 protein
For negative controls, researchers should implement:
Lysates from mycoplasma species lacking MPN_083 homologs
Pre-immune serum in place of the primary antibody
Samples treated with CRISPR-Cas9 or other gene editing techniques to knock out MPN_083 expression
Secondary antibody-only controls to assess non-specific binding
Experimental design should include both types of controls in all analyses to distinguish specific from non-specific signals. Additionally, when working with clinical or environmental samples, researchers should process control samples identically to experimental samples to account for matrix effects or processing artifacts that might influence antibody binding or detection.
When utilizing MPN_083 polyclonal antibody across various experimental platforms, optimization of conditions is essential for generating reliable and reproducible results. For direct-ELISA applications, which have been validated for this antibody, the following parameters typically require optimization:
Antibody concentration: Titration experiments starting from 1:500 to 1:10,000 dilutions to determine optimal signal-to-noise ratio
Sample preparation: Lysis buffers containing 1% Triton X-100 or NP-40 with protease inhibitors are generally effective for mycoplasma proteins
Blocking agent: 3-5% BSA or 5% non-fat dry milk in PBS-T (PBS with 0.05% Tween-20)
Incubation times and temperatures: Primary antibody incubation typically at 4°C overnight or 2 hours at room temperature
For Western blotting applications, researchers should consider:
Reducing versus non-reducing conditions: Testing both conditions as protein epitopes may be affected by disulfide bond reduction
Transfer conditions: Wet transfer at 30V overnight for large proteins or semi-dry transfer for smaller proteins
Membrane type: PVDF membranes typically provide better protein retention and lower background for lipoprotein detection
Detection system: Chemiluminescent detection often provides optimal sensitivity for low-abundance lipoproteins
For immunofluorescence microscopy:
Fixation method: 4% paraformaldehyde for 15-20 minutes typically preserves epitope accessibility
Permeabilization: 0.1-0.5% Triton X-100 for 5-10 minutes
Antibody dilution: Starting at 1:100-1:500 for primary antibody
Counterstaining: DAPI for nuclear visualization and phalloidin for cytoskeletal context
These parameters should be systematically optimized for each experimental system and laboratory environment to ensure reliable detection of MPN_083.
Quantitative assessment of MPN_083 expression requires rigorous experimental design and appropriate analytical methods. The following approaches are recommended:
ELISA-based quantification:
Develop a standard curve using recombinant MPN_083 protein at known concentrations (5-8 concentrations spanning the expected range)
Process experimental samples identically to standards
Calculate unknown concentrations by interpolation from the standard curve
Include quality control samples (low, medium, high concentrations) to assess inter-assay variability
Express results as ng/mL or ng/mg total protein to normalize across samples
Western blot densitometry:
Use internal loading controls such as housekeeping proteins (GAPDH, β-actin) or total protein stains (Ponceau S, SYPRO Ruby)
Capture images within the linear range of detection
Analyze band intensities using software like ImageJ, normalizing to loading controls
Present results as fold-change relative to control conditions
Real-time PCR correlation:
Design primers specific to MPN_083 mRNA
Perform RT-qPCR using appropriate reference genes for normalization
Correlate mRNA expression with protein levels detected by antibody-based methods
Analyze using the 2^-ΔΔCt method for relative quantification
When comparing MPN_083 expression across different experimental conditions, researchers should employ statistical methods appropriate for the data distribution and experimental design, such as t-tests for two-group comparisons or ANOVA for multiple groups, with post-hoc tests for pairwise comparisons.
Cross-reactivity presents a significant challenge in antibody-based research, particularly with polyclonal antibodies like the MPN_083 antibody. Researchers should systematically address the following cross-reactivity concerns:
Homologous proteins in related species:
Unlike some viral antibodies that show clear epitope specificity (e.g., antibodies targeting N1-3 epitope of SARS-CoV-2 showing no cross-reaction with SARS-CoV-1) , mycoplasma protein antibodies often exhibit cross-reactivity with homologous proteins from related species. Researchers should:
Perform sequence alignment analysis to identify homologous proteins in related mycoplasma species
Test cross-reactivity using lysates from these species as negative controls
Consider pre-absorption with lysates from related species to improve specificity
Non-specific binding to common bacterial proteins:
Include non-mycoplasma bacterial lysates as negative controls
Implement more stringent washing conditions (higher salt concentration or detergent)
Use competitive blocking with excess unlabeled primary antibody to confirm binding specificity
Data interpretation considerations:
Potential Cross-Reactive Target | Mitigation Strategy | Validation Method |
---|---|---|
Homologous lipoproteins | Pre-absorption with related species lysates | Western blot with multiple species |
Common bacterial epitopes | Increased washing stringency | Competitive binding assays |
Host cell proteins | Use of appropriate cell-only controls | Mass spectrometry verification |
Fc receptor binding | Use of F(ab')2 fragments | Flow cytometry with Fc blocking |
Proper documentation of all observed cross-reactivities is essential for transparent reporting and should be included in materials and methods sections of publications to guide other researchers in experimental design and data interpretation.
Discrepancies between different detection methods using the same antibody are not uncommon in antibody-based research and require systematic analysis. When facing inconsistent results with MPN_083 antibody across different platforms (e.g., positive ELISA but negative Western blot), researchers should consider:
Epitope accessibility differences:
Different methods expose proteins to antibodies in various conformational states. The MPN_083 polyclonal antibody may recognize:
Conformational epitopes (preserved in native conditions like ELISA)
Linear epitopes (accessible in denatured conditions like Western blotting)
Post-translationally modified epitopes (differentially preserved across methods)
Methodological sensitivity thresholds:
ELISA typically offers higher sensitivity (pg-ng range) compared to Western blotting (ng-μg range)
Immunofluorescence sensitivity depends on microscopy equipment and signal amplification
Flow cytometry offers quantitative single-cell analysis but requires sufficient epitope density
Recommended approach for resolving discrepancies:
Perform epitope mapping to identify the specific regions recognized by the antibody
Test different protein extraction and sample preparation methods
Implement complementary techniques like mass spectrometry for protein identification
Consider antibody affinity purification against the specific antigen
A systematic investigation table can help document and resolve inconsistencies:
Detection Method | Result | Possible Explanation | Validation Approach |
---|---|---|---|
Direct ELISA | Positive | Recognizes native epitope | Competitive inhibition with purified antigen |
Western Blot | Negative | Epitope destroyed by denaturation | Try native gel electrophoresis |
Immunofluorescence | Variable | Fixation-dependent epitope accessibility | Test multiple fixation protocols |
Flow Cytometry | Weak positive | Low surface expression | Increase antibody concentration or signal amplification |
By systematically documenting and investigating these discrepancies, researchers can gain valuable insights into the structural and biochemical properties of the MPN_083 protein itself.
Validating antibody specificity is fundamental to generating reliable data. For MPN_083 antibody, researchers should implement a comprehensive suite of controls across different experimental platforms:
Essential controls for all applications:
Antigen pre-absorption control: Pre-incubate antibody with excess purified MPN_083 protein or synthetic peptide before application to demonstrate binding specificity
Isotype control: Use non-specific antibody of the same isotype and concentration to assess non-specific binding
Secondary antibody-only control: Omit primary antibody to detect non-specific secondary antibody binding
Genetic knockout/knockdown control: When available, use MPN_083-deficient samples to confirm signal specificity
Application-specific validation controls:
For Western blotting:
Recombinant MPN_083 protein as positive control
Molecular weight markers to confirm band size
Loading controls (housekeeping proteins) for normalization
Peptide competition assays to verify band specificity
For immunofluorescence:
Co-localization with known subcellular markers
Comparison with alternative antibodies targeting the same protein
Signal blocking with cognate peptide
Fluorescence minus one (FMO) controls
For ELISA:
Standard curve with recombinant protein
Known positive and negative samples
Detection limit controls (serial dilutions)
Inter-plate calibrators for multi-plate experiments
Validation documentation table:
Validation Parameter | Acceptance Criteria | Results Documentation |
---|---|---|
Antibody specificity | Single band at expected MW in Western blot | Include representative blot image |
Sensitivity | Detection limit < 1 ng/mL in ELISA | Include standard curve |
Reproducibility | CV < 15% across replicates | Report mean, SD, and CV% |
Linearity | R² > 0.95 in dilution series | Include linearity plot |
Cross-reactivity | No signal with non-target samples | List tested negative controls |
Thorough validation not only ensures experimental reliability but also satisfies increasingly stringent journal requirements for antibody validation in published research.
Distinguishing specific signal from background noise represents one of the most challenging aspects of antibody-based research. For MPN_083 antibody experiments, researchers should implement a multi-faceted approach:
Signal-to-noise optimization strategies:
Titration optimization: Conduct systematic dilution series to identify the optimal antibody concentration that maximizes specific signal while minimizing background
Blocking optimization: Test different blocking agents (BSA, casein, normal serum) and concentrations to reduce non-specific binding
Washing stringency adjustment: Modify washing buffer composition (salt concentration, detergent type/concentration) and washing times/volumes
Signal amplification methods: Consider enzymatic amplification systems, tyramide signal amplification, or polymer-based detection for low-abundance targets
Quantitative approaches to signal discrimination:
Calculate signal-to-noise ratios (S/N) for each experimental condition
Implement statistical thresholds (e.g., signal > 2 standard deviations above background)
Use image analysis software with background subtraction algorithms for fluorescence microscopy
Apply machine learning algorithms for pattern recognition in complex images
Advanced techniques for challenging samples:
Spectral unmixing: Separate overlapping fluorescence signals in multiplexed experiments
FRET-based detection: Use fluorescence resonance energy transfer to confirm proximity-based interactions
Super-resolution microscopy: Overcome diffraction limits to visualize sub-cellular localization
Single-molecule detection: For extremely low abundance targets
When reporting results, researchers should clearly describe the methods used to distinguish signal from noise, including quantitative thresholds and representative images showing both positive signals and background levels. This transparency enables other researchers to accurately interpret the data and replicate the findings.
Multiplexed detection systems enable simultaneous analysis of multiple targets, offering significant advantages for mycoplasma research. Incorporating MPN_083 antibody into these systems requires careful consideration of compatibility factors:
Bead-based multiplexing approaches:
Conjugate MPN_083 antibody to spectrally distinct fluorescent beads
Optimize antibody conjugation chemistry to maintain binding activity
Validate lack of cross-reactivity with other antibodies in the panel
Establish detection thresholds specific to the MPN_083 antibody-bead conjugate
Multiplex immunoassay development:
Researchers can develop comprehensive mycoplasma protein analysis panels by combining MPN_083 antibody with antibodies targeting other mycoplasma proteins of interest. Key considerations include:
Antibody compatibility (species, isotype, working concentrations)
Buffer optimization to accommodate all antibodies in the panel
Cross-reactivity testing between all components
Dynamic range harmonization across targets with different abundance levels
Example multiplexed panel design:
Target Protein | Antibody Type | Detection Method | Expected Signal Range |
---|---|---|---|
MPN_083 | Polyclonal rabbit | PE fluorophore | Medium intensity |
P1 adhesin | Monoclonal mouse | APC fluorophore | High intensity |
CARDS toxin | Polyclonal goat | FITC fluorophore | Low intensity |
PDH-E1 | Monoclonal rat | Cy5 fluorophore | Medium intensity |
Data analysis for multiplexed systems:
Implement multivariate statistical methods (principal component analysis, cluster analysis)
Develop normalization strategies for targets with different expression levels
Consider machine learning approaches for pattern recognition in complex datasets
Evaluate correlation patterns between different mycoplasma proteins to identify functional relationships
Multiplexed approaches provide systems-level insights into mycoplasma biology that cannot be achieved through single-target analysis, potentially revealing coordinated expression patterns relevant to bacterial pathogenesis or response to environmental conditions.
Investigating host-pathogen interactions using MPN_083 antibody requires specialized experimental designs that preserve both pathogen antigens and host cell structures. Researchers should consider:
Co-localization studies:
Double immunofluorescence staining with MPN_083 antibody and host cell markers
Optimized fixation protocols to maintain both bacterial and host cell epitopes
Selection of compatible fluorophores with minimal spectral overlap
Super-resolution microscopy for precise spatial relationships
Temporal dynamics studies:
Time-course experiments to track MPN_083 expression during infection
Live-cell imaging with minimally disruptive labeling techniques
Correlation with host cell response markers
Synchronization methods to align infection stages across the sample
Functional interaction studies:
Co-immunoprecipitation of MPN_083 with host cell proteins
Proximity ligation assays to confirm direct protein-protein interactions
FRET/BRET approaches for real-time interaction monitoring
Immunoelectron microscopy for ultrastructural localization
Host response correlation:
Experimental Approach | MPN_083 Assessment | Host Response Measurement | Correlation Analysis |
---|---|---|---|
Infection time-course | Western blot quantification | Cytokine profiling | Pearson or Spearman correlation |
Cell type comparison | Immunofluorescence intensity | Cell surface activation markers | Multiple regression analysis |
Genetic manipulation | Expression in WT vs. mutant | Differential host transcriptomics | Gene set enrichment analysis |
Drug treatment | Protein expression/localization | Signaling pathway activation | Pathway analysis software |
When designing these studies, researchers should carefully consider potential antibody cross-reactivity with host cell proteins, particularly when working with polyclonal antibodies like the MPN_083 antibody. Control experiments should include uninfected cells processed identically to infected samples to identify any non-specific binding to host cell components.
While the MPN_083 antibody is currently designated for research use only and not for diagnostic procedures , exploring its potential in diagnostic method development represents an important translational research direction. Researchers investigating diagnostic applications should consider:
Analytical validation requirements:
Determine sensitivity and specificity in controlled laboratory samples
Establish limits of detection and quantification
Assess reproducibility across different operators and laboratories
Evaluate stability under various storage and handling conditions
Sample type optimization:
Compare antibody performance across different clinical sample types (respiratory lavage, sputum, serum)
Develop optimal sample processing methods to maximize antigen recovery
Identify potential interfering substances in clinical matrices
Establish reference ranges in healthy vs. infected populations
Novel diagnostic platform integration:
The development of diagnostic approaches often draws from established research methodologies. Similar to the double-antibody sandwich ELISA established for antigen detection using optimal monoclonal antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 research , MPN_083 antibody could be incorporated into:
Lateral flow immunoassays for point-of-care testing
Microfluidic devices for automated sample processing
Biosensor platforms for real-time detection
Multiplexed arrays for pathogen differentiation
Performance comparison matrix:
Diagnostic Approach | MPN_083 Detection Limit | Time to Result | Complexity Level | Resource Requirements |
---|---|---|---|---|
Standard ELISA | 0.5 ng/mL (estimated) | 4-5 hours | Medium | Laboratory equipment |
Lateral flow test | 5-10 ng/mL (projected) | 15-30 minutes | Low | Minimal equipment |
PCR comparison | Not applicable | 2-3 hours | High | Specialized equipment |
Next-gen sequencing | Not applicable | 24-48 hours | Very high | Advanced infrastructure |
Researchers pursuing diagnostic applications should maintain clear documentation of the transition from research-grade to diagnostic-grade reagents and methods, including any modifications to the antibody or detection systems that may be required for clinical implementation.
Current research using MPN_083 antibody faces several important limitations that researchers should acknowledge and address:
Characterization gaps:
The primary limitation is the "uncharacterized" status of the MPN_083 lipoprotein itself . This fundamental gap complicates experimental design and data interpretation. Researchers should prioritize:
Comprehensive structural characterization using X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM
Functional studies using gene knockout or knockdown approaches
Interactome mapping to identify binding partners and potential functions
Comparative genomics across mycoplasma species to identify conserved domains
Antibody-specific limitations:
Limited validation across multiple applications (currently validated only for direct-ELISA)
Potential batch-to-batch variability inherent to polyclonal antibodies
Incomplete epitope mapping and cross-reactivity profiling
Absence of characterized monoclonal alternatives for comparison
Methodological approaches to overcome limitations:
Limitation | Strategy to Overcome | Expected Outcome |
---|---|---|
Uncharacterized target protein | Structural biology studies combined with computational modeling | Functional domain identification |
Limited application validation | Systematic cross-platform testing | Expanded utility across research methods |
Polyclonal variability | Development of monoclonal alternatives | Improved reproducibility |
Unknown specificity profile | Comprehensive cross-reactivity testing | Enhanced data interpretation |
Future technology integration:
Emerging technologies that could address current limitations include:
CRISPR-Cas9 epitope tagging for improved detection
Single-cell proteomics for expression heterogeneity analysis
Advanced microscopy techniques for subcellular localization
Protein-protein interaction screens in native conditions
By systematically addressing these limitations, researchers can establish more robust experimental systems for investigating MPN_083 and its role in mycoplasma biology.
Antibody engineering technologies are rapidly advancing, offering significant opportunities to enhance MPN_083 research. Researchers should consider how these innovations might be applied:
Recombinant antibody development:
Similar to the process outlined in the generic monoclonal antibody development plan , researchers could pursue:
Single B-cell sorting and antibody gene cloning from immunized animals
Phage display library screening against purified MPN_083 protein
Synthetic antibody library development targeting specific MPN_083 epitopes
Humanization of effective antibody sequences for potential therapeutic applications
Antibody fragment engineering:
Development of single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) for improved tissue penetration
Creation of antigen-binding fragments (Fabs) for reduced non-specific binding
Bispecific antibody formats targeting MPN_083 and other mycoplasma proteins simultaneously
Nanobody development for accessing sterically restricted epitopes
Functionality-enhanced antibodies:
Site-specific conjugation of fluorophores or enzymes for improved detection sensitivity
pH-responsive antibodies for subcellular compartment-specific detection
Photoswitchable antibodies for super-resolution microscopy applications
Intracellularly stable antibody formats for live-cell applications
Technology comparison matrix:
Antibody Technology | Potential Advantage for MPN_083 Research | Technical Complexity | Timeline to Implementation |
---|---|---|---|
Monoclonal development | Improved reproducibility | Moderate | 3-6 months |
Recombinant production | Consistent supply, defined sequence | Moderate | 4-8 months |
Antibody fragments | Better penetration, reduced background | High | 6-12 months |
Bispecific formats | Multiple target detection | Very high | 12-18 months |
These emerging technologies could significantly enhance the specificity, sensitivity, and versatility of MPN_083 detection, enabling more sophisticated experimental approaches and potentially opening new avenues for therapeutic intervention in mycoplasma infections.
Advancing knowledge about MPN_083 function requires integration of expertise across multiple scientific disciplines. Researchers should consider the following interdisciplinary approaches:
Systems biology integration:
Combine antibody-based proteomics with transcriptomics data
Correlate MPN_083 expression with metabolomic profiles
Develop computational models of lipoprotein function
Apply network analysis to position MPN_083 within cellular pathways
Structural biology approaches:
Use antibody epitope mapping to inform protein structure prediction
Employ antibodies for co-crystallization to solve protein structures
Utilize conformation-specific antibodies to capture different functional states
Apply hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry with antibody binding
Host-pathogen immunology:
Assess MPN_083 recognition by host pattern recognition receptors
Evaluate potential as a vaccine antigen using antibody-based readouts
Investigate impact on host immune cell activation
Study potential molecular mimicry with host proteins
Translational research approaches:
Research Approach | MPN_083 Antibody Application | Complementary Technique | Expected Insights |
---|---|---|---|
Synthetic biology | Epitope mapping | Protein engineering | Structure-function relationships |
Clinical microbiology | Immunohistochemistry | Digital pathology | In vivo expression patterns |
Bioinformatics | Cross-reactivity profiling | Machine learning | Epitope conservation and evolution |
Nanotechnology | Antibody conjugation | Nanoparticle delivery | Targeted intervention strategies |
By fostering collaboration across these disciplines, researchers can develop more comprehensive experimental frameworks that leverage the specificity of antibody-based detection while incorporating diverse analytical approaches. This interdisciplinary strategy is particularly important for uncharacterized proteins like MPN_083, where function cannot be readily inferred from sequence alone and multiple lines of evidence are needed to build a coherent functional model.