MRPS18C Antibody

Introduction to MRPS18C Antibody

MRPS18C antibodies are immunoglobulins specifically designed to recognize and bind to the mitochondrial ribosomal protein S18C. These antibodies are predominantly produced in rabbits as polyclonal antibodies, though they may vary in their specific binding characteristics depending on the immunogen used and purification methods employed . The primary function of these antibodies is to enable detection, visualization, and quantification of MRPS18C protein in various experimental contexts, making them valuable tools for research in mitochondrial biology, protein synthesis, and cellular metabolism .

MRPS18C belongs to the S18 protein family of mitochondrial ribosomal proteins, which includes three variants (MRPS18A, MRPS18B, and MRPS18C) that share only 25-30% sequence identity . This limited homology indicates distinct evolutionary paths and potentially specialized functions for each variant. MRPS18C antibodies are designed to specifically detect this particular variant without cross-reactivity to other family members .

General Characteristics

The typical specifications of commercially available MRPS18C antibodies are summarized in the following table:

Immunogen Information

Most MRPS18C antibodies are generated using one of several approaches:

1. Synthetic peptides derived from specific regions of human MRPS18C (often the N-terminal or internal regions)

2. Recombinant fusion proteins containing partial or complete MRPS18C sequences

3. KLH-conjugated synthetic peptides encompassing sequences within the center region of human MRPS18C

For example, one commercial antibody uses an immunogen consisting of a synthetic peptide directed towards the N-terminal region of Human MRPS18C with the sequence: "GTHTVLWRRGCSQQVSSNEDLPISMENPYKEPLKKCILCGKHVDYKNVQL" . Another uses a peptide with the sequence "CGKKQKEITKAIKR" derived from an internal region of human MRPS18C .

Applications and Usage

MRPS18C antibodies demonstrate versatility across multiple experimental applications, each requiring specific optimization for optimal results.

Western Blot Analysis

In Western blot applications, MRPS18C antibodies typically detect a band at approximately 15-16 kDa, corresponding to the predicted molecular weight of the MRPS18C protein . Recommended dilutions generally range from 1:500 to 1:3000, depending on the specific antibody and sample type . Some antibodies may recognize the native protein better than denatured forms, suggesting epitope conformation sensitivity .

Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence

For immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded tissues (IHC-P) and immunofluorescence applications, MRPS18C antibodies are typically used at dilutions ranging from 1:50 to 1:200 . These techniques enable the visualization of MRPS18C protein localization within cellular structures, confirming its predominant mitochondrial distribution .

ELISA and Immunoprecipitation

MRPS18C antibodies can be employed in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) at dilutions ranging from 1:10,000 to 1:40,000, depending on the specific antibody sensitivity . For immunoprecipitation applications, usage recommendations typically range from 0.5-4.0 μg of antibody per 1.0-3.0 mg of total protein lysate .

Application-Specific Recommendations

The following table summarizes recommended dilutions for various applications:

It is important to note that these recommendations serve as starting points, and optimization for specific experimental conditions is typically necessary .

Target Protein: MRPS18C

Understanding the structure, function, and biological significance of MRPS18C is essential for interpreting results obtained using MRPS18C antibodies.

Biological Function

MRPS18C serves as a component of the small subunit (28S) of the mitochondrial ribosome, although recent structural studies have suggested it may associate with the large ribosomal subunit . Its primary function involves facilitating the translation of mitochondrial DNA-encoded proteins essential for oxidative phosphorylation and energy production .

The mitochondrial ribosome is responsible for translating the 13 proteins encoded by mitochondrial DNA, all of which are integral components of the electron transport chain complexes . As such, MRPS18C plays a critical role in maintaining mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism.

Research Findings and Significance

Research utilizing MRPS18C antibodies has contributed to significant advancements in understanding both normal mitochondrial function and disease-related alterations.

MRPS18 Family in Cancer Biology

Studies have indicated that members of the MRPS18 family, particularly MRPS18A and MRPS18B, may play roles in cancer development and progression:

1. MRPS18A has been identified as upregulated in breast cancer through phage display antibody selection techniques . This upregulation was not homogeneously distributed among all cancer cells, suggesting the existence of sub-populations within tumors with varying expression patterns.

2. MRPS18B overexpression has been shown to immortalize primary rat embryonic fibroblasts, leading to cells (designated 18IM) that adopt cancer-like characteristics including loss of contact inhibition and anchorage-independent growth . These immortalized cells also expressed embryonic stem cell markers like SSEA-1, Sox2, and Oct3/4.

3. The expression of MRPS18-2 (MRPS18B) has been correlated with prostate cancer progression in clinical specimens . Increased expression of this protein was associated with induction of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and enhanced migratory abilities of cancer cells.

While these findings primarily involve MRPS18A and MRPS18B rather than MRPS18C specifically, they highlight the potential significance of this protein family in cancer biology and suggest important directions for future research using MRPS18C antibodies .

Mitochondrial Ribosomal Proteins in Disease

Alterations in mitochondrial ribosomal proteins, including MRPS18C, have been implicated in various disorders:

1. Changes in the expression patterns of mitochondrial ribosomal proteins have been observed in transformed cells .

2. Some mitochondrial ribosomal proteins exhibit functions beyond protein synthesis, potentially influencing cellular processes like apoptosis and cell cycle regulation .

3. The Warburg effect, a common phenomenon in cancer cells characterized by decreased mitochondrial activity and increased glycolysis, has been linked to alterations in mitochondrial ribosomal proteins .

These findings underscore the importance of MRPS18C antibodies as tools for investigating the complex relationships between mitochondrial protein synthesis, energy metabolism, and disease states.

Working Dilution Preparation

When preparing working dilutions, the following practices are recommended:

1. Dilute only the amount needed for immediate use

2. Use high-quality, clean buffers for dilution

3. Add appropriate carriers (e.g., BSA) if diluting to very low concentrations

4. Store diluted antibody at 4°C and use within 24-48 hours

Product Comparisons

The following table compares key features of MRPS18C antibodies from different suppliers:

This comparison highlights the diversity of available options, enabling researchers to select antibodies based on their specific experimental requirements, target species, and applications .