The MROH8 antibody is a highly specific immunoglobulin designed to target the MROH8 protein, a member of the maestro heat-like repeat family. While the exact biological function of MROH8 remains under investigation, recent studies have implicated it in cellular processes such as transcriptional regulation and tumor suppression, particularly in pancreatic cancer .
Antibody Class: The MROH8 antibody is classified as a monoclonal IgG (immunoglobulin G), optimized for high-affinity binding to epitopes on the MROH8 protein.
Binding Regions:
Fab Fragments: Contain variable domains (V_H and V_L) that interact with MROH8’s conserved regions.
Fc Region: Facilitates interactions with effector molecules, enabling applications like immunoprecipitation or Western blotting .
MROH8 has been identified as a tumor suppressor in pancreatic cancer, with its expression inversely correlated with tumor metastasis. Antibody-based assays (e.g., Western blotting) revealed that:
MROH8 Overexpression: Inhibits tumor cell growth and metastasis by downregulating CAPN2 (calpain-2), a pro-metastatic protease .
MROH8 Knockdown: Significantly enhances tumor colony formation (P<0.001) .
The MROH8 antibody is central to studying its upstream and downstream interactions:
MROH8 (Maestro Heat-like Repeat-containing Protein Family Member 8) is a protein encoded by the MROH8 gene located on chromosome 20. It is also known by several alternative names including C20orf131, C20orf132, dJ621N11.3, and dJ621N11.4 .
Recent research in pancreatic cancer has identified MROH8 as part of a regulatory pathway involving N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modifications. MROH8 appears to function by modulating transcription factor activity, particularly through interaction with TATA-binding protein (TBP). Specifically, MROH8 has been shown to:
Negatively regulate TBP by promoting its degradation after binding
Function downstream of the m6A writer METTL16
Correlate with improved survival in pancreatic cancer patients
This emerging evidence suggests MROH8 may act as a tumor suppressor through transcriptional regulation mechanisms, though more research is needed to fully elucidate its functions across different tissues and cellular contexts.
Most commercially available MROH8 antibodies are polyclonal, derived primarily from rabbits, with different epitope targets allowing researchers to select antibodies appropriate for their specific experimental needs .
Proper validation of MROH8 antibodies is critical for ensuring experimental reliability. A comprehensive validation strategy should include:
Western blot molecular weight verification:
Confirm detection at the expected molecular weight for MROH8
Some antibodies detect bands of approximately 140-150 kDa, consistent with predicted MROH8 size
Positive and negative controls:
Peptide competition assays:
Protein array testing:
Cross-application validation:
Correlation with mRNA expression data:
Always document validation procedures thoroughly and include appropriate controls in all experiments to ensure reliable interpretation of results.
MROH8 has been identified as a regulator of transcription factor activity, particularly through its interaction with TBP. To investigate this function:
Protein-protein interaction studies:
Protein degradation analysis:
Cycloheximide chase assays: Monitor TBP degradation rates with/without MROH8 overexpression
Proteasome inhibitor studies: Determine if MROH8-mediated TBP degradation is proteasome-dependent
Temporal analysis: In published studies, inducing MROH8 overexpression and then withdrawing the inducer showed that decreasing MROH8 levels led to increasing TBP levels
Transcriptional impact assessment:
Luciferase reporter assays: Measure transcriptional activity of TBP-dependent promoters
ChIP-seq analysis: Assess genome-wide changes in TBP binding with MROH8 modulation
RNA-seq: Identify genes differentially expressed with MROH8 manipulation
Domain mapping experiments:
Generate MROH8 truncation mutants to identify regions critical for TBP interaction
Use antibodies targeting different MROH8 domains to potentially disrupt specific interactions
Functional validation:
A comprehensive experimental design should incorporate multiple methodological approaches to provide robust evidence for MROH8's transcriptional regulatory functions.
Detecting low-abundance proteins like MROH8 in clinical samples requires specialized approaches:
Signal amplification methods:
Tyramide signal amplification (TSA): Can increase detection sensitivity 10-100 fold for IHC/IF
Polymer-based detection systems: Often provide better signal-to-noise ratio than ABC methods
Higher-sensitivity substrates: Super Signal or femto-level chemiluminescent reagents for Western blotting
Sample preparation optimization:
| Procedure | Standard Method | Enhanced Method for Low Expression |
|---|---|---|
| Antigen retrieval | Citrate buffer pH 6.0 | Test multiple buffers (citrate pH 6.0, EDTA pH 8.0, Tris-EDTA pH 9.0) |
| Antibody incubation | 1 hour at RT | Overnight at 4°C with optimized concentration |
| Blocking | Standard BSA or serum | Specialized blockers to reduce background |
| Signal detection | Standard DAB | Amplified detection systems (TSA, QD) |
Antibody selection and optimization:
Choose antibodies validated for high sensitivity (e.g., those confirmed for detecting endogenous levels)
Perform careful titration experiments to determine optimal concentration
For IHC/IF: 1:500-1:1000 dilutions are typically recommended
For Western blot: 1:1000-2000 or 1.0 μg/ml concentrations are often optimal
Pre-enrichment strategies:
Immunoprecipitation before Western blotting to concentrate MROH8
Laser capture microdissection to isolate specific cell populations
Alternative or complementary detection methods:
RNAscope for mRNA detection to complement protein analysis
Multiplexed detection to visualize MROH8 alongside known interacting partners
These strategies can significantly improve detection sensitivity for MROH8 in clinical samples, enabling more reliable analysis in experimental and diagnostic contexts.
Recent research has revealed a novel regulatory axis involving MROH8 and m6A RNA modifications in pancreatic cancer:
METTL16-MROH8-TBP-CAPN2 regulatory axis:
METTL16 (an m6A writer) enhances MROH8 mRNA stability through m6A modifications
MROH8 negatively regulates TBP by promoting its degradation
TBP functions as a transcription factor for CAPN2, which promotes tumor growth
This pathway effectively links RNA modifications to transcriptional regulation and cancer progression
Experimental evidence:
METTL16 overexpression significantly increases MROH8 levels and decreases CAPN2 levels
METTL16 and YTHDC2 (an m6A reader) collaboratively enhance MROH8 mRNA stability
MROH8 negatively correlates with CAPN2 (r=-0.3, P<0.001)
MROH8 positively correlates with better survival outcomes in pancreatic cancer patients
Methodological approach to study this pathway:
m6A-specific quantitative PCR to measure modification levels
RNA immunoprecipitation using m6A antibodies followed by MROH8 detection
Co-IP experiments between MROH8 and transcription factors
Functional assays measuring tumor proliferation and metastasis with pathway manipulation
Experimental design considerations:
Use antibodies against multiple pathway components (METTL16, MROH8, TBP, CAPN2)
Implement both gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches
Validate findings across cell lines, patient-derived organoids, and animal models
Consider temporal dynamics of the pathway activation
This regulatory mechanism represents an important area for further research, potentially offering new therapeutic targets for pancreatic and other cancers.
Multiplexed immunofluorescence (mIF) allows simultaneous visualization of MROH8 alongside other proteins of interest. Here's a comprehensive protocol:
Antibody selection and panel design:
Consider host species compatibility with other antibodies in your panel
If using multiple rabbit antibodies, plan sequential staining with tyramide signal amplification
Example panel for studying MROH8 in cancer: MROH8 + TBP + CAPN2 + epithelial marker + immune markers
Step-by-step multiplexed staining protocol:
a) Tissue preparation:
Use FFPE or frozen sections (4-6 μm thickness)
Perform deparaffinization and rehydration for FFPE samples
Conduct heat-induced epitope retrieval (optimal buffer determined empirically)
b) Blocking and antibody application:
Block with 5-10% normal serum or specialized blocking buffer (30-60 minutes)
Apply primary antibodies sequentially or in compatible combinations
Incubate overnight at 4°C for optimal sensitivity
c) Detection system:
Use fluorophore-conjugated secondary antibodies or TSA systems
Include spectral unmixing controls if needed
If using sequential staining, include antibody stripping/quenching steps
Critical optimization parameters:
Imaging and analysis considerations:
Use spectral imaging systems when possible
Employ consistent exposure settings across specimens
Utilize specialized software capable of cell segmentation and co-localization analysis
Quantify both expression levels and spatial relationships between proteins
Following these guidelines will enable successful integration of MROH8 detection into multiplexed immunofluorescence studies, providing valuable spatial context for understanding MROH8's functional relationships.
Investigating MROH8's interactions with proteins like TBP requires optimized antibody-based techniques:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) protocol optimization:
a) Lysis buffer composition:
Base buffer: 50 mM Tris-HCl pH 7.4, 150 mM NaCl, 1 mM EDTA
Detergent: Use mild non-ionic detergents (0.5-1% NP-40 or 0.5% Triton X-100)
Protease/phosphatase inhibitors: Include complete protease inhibitor cocktail
Consider adding 10% glycerol for protein stability
DNase/RNase: Include if DNA/RNA bridging is a concern
b) Antibody selection and preparation:
Choose MROH8 antibodies raised against regions unlikely to be involved in protein interactions
Pre-clear lysates with protein A/G beads before immunoprecipitation
Use 2-5 μg antibody per 500 μg total protein for optimal results
Consider pre-crosslinking antibody to beads to prevent antibody contamination in eluates
c) Washing and elution conditions:
Use graduated stringency washes to reduce background
Optimize number of washes (typically 3-5) based on signal-to-noise ratio
Consider native elution with peptide competition when possible
Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA) optimization:
Requires antibodies from different host species against MROH8 and interaction partners
Optimal fixation: 4% paraformaldehyde for 15-20 minutes
Permeabilization: 0.2% Triton X-100 for 10 minutes
Primary antibody dilutions: Start with manufacturer's recommendations for IF and optimize
Include appropriate negative controls (omitting one primary antibody)
FRET/BRET approaches for live-cell interaction studies:
While not directly using antibodies, can complement antibody-based interaction studies
Useful for monitoring dynamic interactions in living cells
Can validate interactions detected by antibody-based methods
Validation strategies for interactions:
These optimized protocols will enhance the reliability and sensitivity of protein-protein interaction studies involving MROH8, providing deeper insights into its functional roles.
Proper storage and handling of MROH8 antibodies is critical for maintaining their performance over time:
Most manufacturers recommend storing MROH8 antibodies at 4°C for short-term use and at -20°C for long-term storage . For lyophilized antibodies, manufacturers typically recommend reconstitution by centrifuging the vial at 12,000 x g for 20 seconds, adding the appropriate volume of distilled water, vortexing, and centrifuging again .
Always refer to the specific storage instructions provided by the manufacturer for your particular MROH8 antibody, as formulations may vary between suppliers.
Sample preparation significantly impacts MROH8 antibody performance across different applications:
Western Blotting sample preparation:
| Parameter | Standard Method | Optimization for MROH8 |
|---|---|---|
| Lysis buffer | RIPA buffer | For membrane proteins: Consider NP-40 or digitonin-based buffers |
| Protein denaturation | 95°C for 5 min | Test both boiled and non-boiled samples |
| Reducing conditions | β-mercaptoethanol or DTT | Essential for accessing linear epitopes |
| Loading amount | 10-30 μg total protein | May need 30-50 μg for low abundance detection |
| Transfer conditions | Standard wet transfer | Consider longer transfer times for high MW proteins |
Published MROH8 antibodies are validated for Western blot applications with specific recommended dilutions (1:1000-2000 or 1.0 μg/ml) .
Immunohistochemistry/Immunofluorescence sample preparation:
| Parameter | Effect on MROH8 Detection | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Fixation method | Affects epitope accessibility | 10% neutral buffered formalin (standard FFPE) |
| Fixation duration | Overfixation can mask epitopes | 24-48 hours optimal for most tissues |
| Antigen retrieval | Critical for FFPE samples | Heat-induced epitope retrieval (HIER) in citrate buffer pH 6.0 or EDTA pH 9.0 |
| Section thickness | Affects signal intensity | 4-6 μm optimal for most applications |
| Blocking solution | Reduces background | 5-10% normal serum matching secondary antibody species |
MROH8 antibodies have been validated for IHC/IF applications with specific dilution recommendations (1:500-1:1000 for IHC, 1-4 μg/ml for IF) .
ELISA and other immunoassays:
| Parameter | Consideration for MROH8 | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Coating buffer | Affects protein binding to plate | Carbonate-bicarbonate buffer pH 9.6 |
| Blocking agent | Prevents non-specific binding | 1-5% BSA or 5% non-fat dry milk |
| Sample dilution | Affects detection sensitivity | Serial dilutions to determine optimal concentration |
| Detection system | Impacts sensitivity | HRP/TMB systems common; consider amplified detection for low abundance |
Some MROH8 antibodies are specifically validated for ELISA applications , including biotin-conjugated and HRP-conjugated variants for enhanced detection .
Flow cytometry considerations:
Fixation: 2-4% paraformaldehyde preferred for intracellular targets
Permeabilization: 0.1-0.5% saponin or 0.1% Triton X-100 for intracellular access
Blocking: Use 2-5% serum or BSA to reduce non-specific binding
Controls: Include appropriate isotype controls and FMO controls
By optimizing these sample preparation parameters for each application, researchers can maximize the performance of MROH8 antibodies and obtain more reliable and reproducible results.
Despite their utility, current MROH8 antibodies have several limitations that researchers should address:
Specificity concerns:
Limitation: While some MROH8 antibodies have been tested on protein arrays , comprehensive specificity testing across diverse sample types may be limited.
Solution: Implement rigorous validation using multiple approaches:
Use positive and negative controls including MROH8 knockdown/knockout samples
Perform blocking peptide competition assays with immunizing peptides
Compare results across antibodies targeting different epitopes
Limited application validation:
Limitation: Many MROH8 antibodies are validated for specific applications only (e.g., WB or IHC) , restricting their utility in multi-modal studies.
Solution:
Conduct application-specific validation before use
Document and share validation results with the research community
Consider requesting additional validation data from manufacturers
Batch-to-batch variability:
Limitation: Particularly with polyclonal antibodies, batch-to-batch variability can affect experimental reproducibility.
Solution:
Detection sensitivity:
Limitation: MROH8 may be expressed at low levels in some tissues, challenging detection limits.
Solution:
Implement signal amplification techniques (TSA, enhanced chemiluminescence)
Optimize sample preparation to maximize epitope accessibility
Consider pre-enrichment strategies (IP before WB)
Cross-reactivity with related proteins:
Limitation: MROH8 belongs to the Maestro heat-like repeat family, which may share sequence homology with other members.
Solution:
Validate antibody specificity using recombinant proteins of related family members
Consider computational analysis of epitope sequences for potential cross-reactivity
Include appropriate controls when studying tissues expressing multiple family members
By acknowledging these limitations and implementing appropriate strategies to address them, researchers can maximize the reliability and reproducibility of their MROH8 research.
Recent research has identified MROH8 as a potential tumor suppressor with prognostic significance in pancreatic cancer . MROH8 antibodies can be used to investigate this role through several approaches:
Expression profiling across cancer types and stages:
Use validated MROH8 antibodies for IHC to assess expression in tumor microarrays
Compare expression between tumor tissue and adjacent normal tissue
Correlate expression levels with clinicopathological parameters
Research suggests MROH8 expression correlates with improved survival in pancreatic cancer
Mechanism investigation using cell line models:
Western blot analysis to confirm MROH8 expression changes after genetic manipulation
Co-IP studies to investigate protein interactions with transcription factors
ICC/IF to assess subcellular localization under different conditions
Published research shows MROH8 knockdown promotes cell colony formation while overexpression inhibits tumor cell growth
Molecular pathway analysis:
Clinical correlation studies:
Preclinical therapeutic targeting:
Study changes in MROH8 expression in response to therapies
Consider approaches to upregulate MROH8 as a potential therapeutic strategy
Investigate combination approaches targeting the MROH8 pathway
MROH8 antibodies provide essential tools for these investigations, enabling visualization and quantification of protein expression, localization, and interactions in cancer research contexts.
Integrating MROH8 antibodies into proteomics workflows can provide deeper insights into its function and interactions:
Antibody-based proteomics approaches:
a) Immunoprecipitation-Mass Spectrometry (IP-MS):
Use validated MROH8 antibodies to pull down protein complexes
Identify interaction partners through LC-MS/MS analysis
Compare interactome under different cellular conditions
This approach could extend current knowledge of MROH8-TBP interaction to identify additional partners
b) Reverse Phase Protein Arrays (RPPA):
Use highly specific MROH8 antibodies for high-throughput protein quantification
Analyze expression across large sample sets
Correlate with other signaling proteins simultaneously
c) Proximity-dependent labeling:
Combine with BioID or APEX2 approaches to map proximal proteins
Does not require stable interactions, capturing transient associations
Antibody-based spatial proteomics:
a) Multiplexed ion beam imaging (MIBI):
Use metal-conjugated MROH8 antibodies
Achieve subcellular resolution of protein localization
Multiplexed with dozens of other proteins simultaneously
b) Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC):
Similar to MIBI but using different detection technology
Provides spatial context for MROH8 expression in tissue samples
Antibody-guided protein structure studies:
a) Hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX-MS):
Use antibodies to stabilize specific protein conformations
Probe structural dynamics of MROH8 in different functional states
b) Cross-linking Mass Spectrometry (XL-MS):
Identify proximity relationships within MROH8 complexes
Map interaction interfaces at amino acid resolution
Integration with single-cell approaches:
a) Single-cell proteomics:
Use MROH8 antibodies in mass cytometry (CyTOF) panels
Correlate with other protein markers at single-cell resolution
b) Spatial transcriptomics integration:
Combine with in situ transcriptomics to correlate protein and mRNA levels
Address questions about post-transcriptional regulation
These advanced proteomics approaches, when integrated with MROH8 antibodies, can provide comprehensive insights into MROH8's functional roles, interaction networks, and regulatory mechanisms at unprecedented resolution.
For researchers requiring specialized MROH8 antibodies beyond commercially available options, several approaches are available:
Recombinant monoclonal antibody development:
a) Phage display technology:
Allows selection of high-affinity antibodies against specific MROH8 epitopes
Completely animal-free process, addressing ethical concerns
Enables antibody optimization through affinity maturation
Produces antibodies with superior affinity, sensitivity, and specificity
b) Single B-cell cloning from immunized animals:
Isolate antigen-specific B cells using FACS or microfluidics
Amplify antibody variable regions using RT-PCR
Clone into expression vectors for recombinant production
Recent methods allow rapid generation of human monoclonal antibodies from single antigen-specific antibody secreting cells
c) Workflow for recombinant antibody production:
| Step | Description | Critical Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Antigen design | Select unique MROH8 epitopes | Avoid hydrophobic regions; check species conservation |
| Library screening | Using phage, yeast, or mammalian display | Selection stringency; multiple rounds of panning |
| Antibody engineering | Optimize framework and CDR regions | Stability, solubility, and affinity considerations |
| Expression system | HEK293, CHO, or other mammalian cells | Culture conditions, transfection efficiency |
| Purification | Protein A/G affinity chromatography | Buffer composition, elution conditions |
| Validation | Test specificity and application performance | Multiple validation methods |
Hybridoma technology with modern improvements:
Traditional approach still useful for generating monoclonal antibodies
Modern improvements include better screening methods and hybridoma stabilization
Sequence the resulting antibodies for recombinant production to ensure reproducibility
Antibody engineering and modification approaches:
Use existing MROH8 antibodies as starting material
Create Fab, F(ab')2, or scFv fragments for specific applications
Engineer fusion proteins (e.g., antibody-fluorophore genetic fusions)
Generate bispecific antibodies targeting MROH8 and interacting partners
Novel affinity reagent development:
Nanobodies (VHH fragments): Smaller size, better tissue penetration
Aptamers: Nucleic acid-based alternatives to antibodies
Designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins): Engineered binding proteins
Production and purification optimization:
By utilizing these advanced methods, researchers can develop customized MROH8 antibodies with improved properties for specific research applications, potentially overcoming limitations of commercially available antibodies.
As our understanding of MROH8's biological functions expands, particularly regarding its potential tumor-suppressive role , MROH8 antibodies may find important applications in translational and clinical research:
Biomarker development and validation:
Use standardized IHC protocols with validated MROH8 antibodies to develop prognostic biomarkers
Correlate expression with patient outcomes in various cancer types beyond pancreatic cancer
Develop tissue microarray-based approaches for high-throughput assessment
Create companion diagnostics for potential MROH8 pathway-targeting therapies
Initial research indicates MROH8 expression correlates with improved survival in pancreatic cancer patients
Therapeutic response monitoring:
Assess changes in MROH8 expression or localization in response to treatments
Develop liquid biopsy approaches if secreted forms or extracellular vesicle-associated forms exist
Create multiplexed panels including MROH8 and pathway components (TBP, CAPN2)
Longitudinal monitoring during treatment
Drug development targeting MROH8 pathways:
Advancing our molecular understanding of MROH8:
Characterize MROH8 expression across tissue types and disease states
Identify tissue-specific interaction partners and functions
Study post-translational modifications and their functional impacts
Investigate MROH8's role in normal physiology and developmental processes
Technology development for enhanced detection:
Create higher-sensitivity detection methods for circulating MROH8
Develop multiplexed approaches to simultaneously assess multiple components of MROH8 pathways
Integration with digital pathology and AI-based quantification
Point-of-care testing if MROH8 proves clinically relevant
As research continues to uncover MROH8's biological significance, antibodies targeting this protein will remain essential tools for translating fundamental discoveries into clinical applications.
Implementing rigorous quality control measures is essential for obtaining reliable and reproducible results with MROH8 antibodies:
Initial antibody validation:
| Validation Parameter | Method | Acceptance Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Specificity | Western blot, IP-MS | Single band/peak at expected MW; identified peptides match MROH8 |
| Sensitivity | Dilution series | Detection of endogenous protein at recommended dilution |
| Reproducibility | Multiple lot testing | Consistent performance across antibody lots |
| Cross-reactivity | Testing against related proteins | No significant binding to non-target proteins |
| Knockout validation | KO cell lines or tissues | Absence of signal in KO samples |
Routine experimental controls:
a) Positive controls:
Cell lines with confirmed MROH8 expression
Recombinant MROH8 protein
Tissues known to express MROH8
b) Negative controls:
Primary antibody omission
Isotype control antibodies
MROH8 knockout or knockdown samples
Blocking peptide competition
c) Technical controls:
Loading controls for Western blot
Internal reference proteins for IHC/IF
Standardized positive samples across experiments
Documentation and standardization:
Maintain detailed records of:
Antibody source, catalog number, lot number
Storage conditions and freeze-thaw cycles
Dilutions and incubation conditions
Sample preparation methods
Detection systems and imaging parameters
Create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for:
Antibody handling and storage
Sample preparation for each application
Staining/detection protocols
Image acquisition settings
Data analysis methodology
Performance monitoring over time:
Regular testing against reference samples
Monitoring signal-to-noise ratios
Tracking consistency of positive controls
Maintaining control charts for quantitative applications
Verification upon receipt of new antibody lots
Application-specific quality measures:
a) Western blot:
Confirm molecular weight
Assess background levels
Evaluate signal linearity with loading
b) IHC/IF:
Assess specificity of staining pattern
Check background in negative control tissues
Confirm reproducibility of subcellular localization
c) IP/Co-IP:
Verify enrichment of target protein
Assess non-specific binding
Confirm reproducibility of interaction partners
By implementing these quality control measures, researchers can ensure high-quality, reliable data when working with MROH8 antibodies, enhancing the reproducibility and impact of their research.