MRPS28, also known as 28S ribosomal protein S28 or mitochondrial ribosomal protein S28, is a nuclear-encoded protein that functions in the mitochondrial ribosome. It plays a crucial role in mitochondrial protein synthesis and is a component of the small mitochondrial ribosomal subunit (28S). MRPS28 is important in research related to mitochondrial function, energy metabolism, and diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction .
The protein has several aliases including 28S ribosomal protein S35 (mitochondrial), MRP-S28, MRP-S35, MRPS35, HSPC007, S28mt, and S35mt . Its calculated molecular weight is approximately 20.8 kDa . MRPS28 belongs to the bacterial ribosomal protein bS1 family and is classified as a mitochondrial small ribosomal subunit protein (bS1m) .
Several types of MRPS28 antibodies are available for research purposes:
Host species variations:
Reactivity profiles:
Application-optimized antibodies:
When selecting an antibody, researchers should consider the specific experimental requirements, including target species, application type, and validation data available for the antibody .
Proper storage and handling of MRPS28 antibodies are essential for maintaining their activity and specificity. Based on manufacturer recommendations:
| Storage Purpose | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Long-term storage | -20°C | Up to one year |
| Short-term/frequent use | 4°C | Up to one month |
Important handling considerations include:
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles as they can degrade antibody quality and reduce specificity .
Most MRPS28 antibodies are supplied in a stabilizing buffer (e.g., PBS with 0.02% sodium azide, 50% glycerol, pH 7.2) that helps maintain antibody integrity .
When working with aliquots, it's recommended to store them at -20°C or -80°C to preserve antibody function over time .
Some formulations may contain preservatives like sodium azide, which is toxic and should be handled with appropriate safety precautions .
Proper adherence to these storage recommendations will help ensure optimal antibody performance in experimental applications.
MRPS28 antibodies have been validated for several standard laboratory applications, including:
Western Blotting (WB): Used to detect and quantify MRPS28 protein in cell or tissue lysates. Recommended dilutions typically range from 1:500 to 1:1000 .
Immunocytochemistry (ICC): Used to visualize the cellular localization of MRPS28 in cultured cells. Recommended dilutions are typically between 1:20 and 1:100 .
Immunofluorescence (IF): Similar to ICC but specifically using fluorescent detection methods to visualize protein localization. Recommended dilutions are typically between 1:20 and 1:100 .
These applications allow researchers to study MRPS28 expression levels, subcellular localization, and potential alterations in different experimental conditions or disease states .
When designing experiments using MRPS28 antibodies, several critical factors should be considered for optimal results:
Experimental controls:
Positive controls: Include samples known to express MRPS28 (e.g., cell lines with confirmed expression)
Negative controls: Include samples without the primary antibody to establish background signal levels
Loading controls: For western blots, include housekeeping proteins (e.g., β-actin, GAPDH) for normalization
Knockdown/knockout controls: When available, include MRPS28 knockdown/knockout samples to validate antibody specificity
Sample preparation optimization:
Antibody validation strategy:
Variables and relationship analysis:
Implementing these considerations will strengthen experimental design and increase the reliability of results when working with MRPS28 antibodies.
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for generating reliable research data. For MRPS28 antibodies, consider the following validation approaches:
Molecular weight verification:
Genetic approaches:
Peptide competition assays:
Cross-species reactivity testing:
Orthogonal detection methods:
Application-specific validation:
Thorough validation ensures that experimental findings truly reflect MRPS28 biology rather than non-specific antibody interactions.
When encountering issues with MRPS28 antibodies, systematic troubleshooting is essential:
Addressing non-specific binding:
Increase blocking stringency: Use 5% BSA or milk in TBS-T for Western blots
Optimize antibody dilution: Test a range around the recommended dilution (e.g., 1:250 to 1:2000 for WB)
Add detergents: Include 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 in washing buffers
Perform additional washes: Increase wash duration and number of wash steps
Use highly purified antibodies: Consider protein A-purified antibodies when available
Resolving weak signal issues:
Increase protein loading: For Western blots, load more total protein
Decrease antibody dilution: Use a more concentrated antibody solution
Optimize incubation conditions: Extend primary antibody incubation to overnight at 4°C
Enhance detection systems: Use signal amplification methods like TSA (tyramide signal amplification)
Modify sample preparation: Use fresh samples and optimize extraction buffers for mitochondrial proteins
Application-specific troubleshooting:
Data analysis approach:
Systematic troubleshooting can identify optimal conditions for specific experimental systems, resulting in more reliable and reproducible data.
MRPS28 antibodies can be employed in several sophisticated applications beyond standard detection methods:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) studies:
Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP):
Proximity labeling approaches:
Combine with BioID or APEX2 to identify proteins in close proximity to MRPS28
Map the local proteome within the mitochondrial ribosome
Super-resolution microscopy:
Study the precise localization of MRPS28 within mitochondrial structures
Investigate co-localization with other mitochondrial ribosomal proteins
Live-cell imaging:
When combined with genetically encoded tags, antibodies can validate expression patterns
Study dynamics of mitochondrial ribosome assembly in living cells
Tissue microarray analysis:
Single-cell analysis:
These advanced applications enable researchers to gain deeper insights into MRPS28 function and its role in mitochondrial translation and cellular metabolism.
When different MRPS28 antibodies yield contradictory results, a systematic analysis approach is necessary:
Epitope mapping and comparison:
Critical evaluation of antibody validation:
Experimental design analysis:
Sample-specific considerations:
Resolution strategies:
| Strategy | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Orthogonal validation | Use non-antibody methods (mass spectrometry, RNA analysis) |
| Multiple antibody approach | Use at least three antibodies targeting different epitopes |
| Genetic validation | Perform experiments in knockout/knockdown systems |
| Independent replication | Have different researchers/labs replicate key experiments |
Publication and reporting:
By systematically analyzing contradictory results, researchers can gain deeper insights into MRPS28 biology and potentially discover novel aspects of protein function, isoforms, or modifications.
Sample preparation significantly impacts MRPS28 detection across different applications:
Western Blot sample preparation:
Whole cell lysates: Use RIPA buffer supplemented with protease inhibitors
Mitochondrial enrichment: Consider using mitochondrial isolation kits for enhanced detection
Protein denaturation: Heat samples to 95°C for 5 minutes in reducing sample buffer
Loading amount: Start with 20-30 μg total protein (adjust based on expression level)
Immunocytochemistry/Immunofluorescence preparation:
Fixation: 4% paraformaldehyde (10-15 minutes) preserves structure while maintaining epitope accessibility
Permeabilization: 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 (10 minutes) allows antibody access to mitochondrial targets
Blocking: 5% normal serum (from secondary antibody host species) for 1 hour
Mitochondrial co-staining: Consider co-staining with MitoTracker or anti-TOMM20 to confirm mitochondrial localization
Co-immunoprecipitation preparation:
Use gentler lysis buffers (e.g., NP-40 buffer) to preserve protein-protein interactions
Pre-clear lysates with protein A/G beads to reduce non-specific binding
Consider crosslinking for transient interactions
Include RNase treatment controls to distinguish RNA-mediated from direct protein interactions
Tissue section preparation:
Fixation: 10% neutral buffered formalin followed by paraffin embedding
Antigen retrieval: Heat-induced epitope retrieval in citrate buffer (pH 6.0)
Section thickness: 4-6 μm sections for optimal antibody penetration
Blocking: Include both protein blocking and endogenous peroxidase blocking steps
Optimization of these protocols for specific experimental systems will maximize detection sensitivity and specificity for MRPS28.
Accurate quantification of MRPS28 expression requires appropriate methods for different experimental approaches:
Western blot quantification:
Densitometry software: Use ImageJ, Image Lab, or similar software for band intensity analysis
Normalization strategies:
Normalize to loading controls (β-actin, GAPDH)
For mitochondrial studies, normalize to mitochondrial markers (VDAC, COX IV)
Standard curve approach: Include a dilution series of positive control for absolute quantification
Linear dynamic range: Ensure signal is within the linear range of detection
Immunofluorescence quantification:
Mean fluorescence intensity: Measure average pixel intensity within defined cellular regions
Integrated density: Calculate the product of area and mean intensity
Co-localization analysis: Use Pearson's or Mander's coefficient to quantify overlap with mitochondrial markers
Single-cell analysis: Quantify cell-to-cell variation in expression levels
qPCR for mRNA expression:
Use as a complementary approach to protein analysis
Select appropriate reference genes (ideally multiple)
Apply the ΔΔCt method for relative quantification
Consider absolute quantification with standard curves for more precise measurements
Systematic error reduction:
| Quantification Approach | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Western blot | Direct protein measurement | Semi-quantitative, limited dynamic range |
| Immunofluorescence | Spatial information, single-cell resolution | Variable staining intensity, background issues |
| qPCR (mRNA) | High sensitivity, good dynamic range | Indirect measure of protein abundance |
| Mass spectrometry | High specificity, absolute quantification possible | Complex sample preparation, specialized equipment |
Combining multiple quantification approaches provides the most comprehensive and reliable assessment of MRPS28 expression levels.
Studying protein-protein interactions involving MRPS28 requires careful experimental design:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) approach:
Proximity labeling methods:
Generate MRPS28 fusion proteins with BioID or APEX2
Identify nearby proteins through biotinylation and streptavidin pulldown
Compare results across different cellular conditions
Validate key interactions with orthogonal methods
Fluorescence-based interaction studies:
FRET (Förster Resonance Energy Transfer): Detect direct protein interactions
BiFC (Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation): Visualize interactions in living cells
PLA (Proximity Ligation Assay): Detect proteins within 40 nm distance using antibodies
Genetic perturbation strategies:
Structural biology approaches:
Complement interaction studies with available structural data
Consider cryo-EM studies of mitochondrial ribosomes
Use computational modeling to predict interaction interfaces
Controls and validation:
A multi-method approach with appropriate controls provides the strongest evidence for genuine MRPS28 protein interactions.
When investigating MRPS28 in disease contexts, researchers should consider:
Disease-specific expression patterns:
Experimental design for disease models:
Technical considerations:
Clinicopathological correlations:
Correlate MRPS28 alterations with clinical parameters
Consider multivariate analysis to identify independent associations
Evaluate potential as diagnostic or prognostic marker
Assess relationship to treatment response or resistance
Mechanistic investigations:
Ethical and practical considerations:
Careful attention to these considerations will enhance the translational relevance of MRPS28 research in disease contexts.
The following table summarizes key technical specifications of representative MRPS28 antibodies:
| Parameter | Boster Bio A13408 | Novus Biologicals H00028957-B01P |
|---|---|---|
| Host Species | Rabbit | Mouse |
| Clonality | Polyclonal | Polyclonal |
| Reactivity | Human, Mouse | Human |
| Applications | WB, ICC/IF | WB |
| Immunogen | Recombinant fusion protein of human MRPS28 (NP_054737.1) | MRPS28 (NP_054737.1, 1 a.a. - 187 a.a.) full-length human protein |
| Form | Liquid | Liquid |
| Formulation | 1mg/ml in PBS with 0.02% sodium azide, 50% glycerol, pH7.2 | PBS (pH 7.4) |
| Storage | -20°C (long-term), 4°C (up to 1 month) | -20°C or -80°C, avoid freeze-thaw cycles |
| WB Dilution | 1:500-1:1000 | Not specified |
| ICC/IF Dilution | 1:20-1:100 | Not applicable |
| Purification | Not specified | Protein A purified |
| Isotype | IgG | IgG |
This information should guide selection of the appropriate antibody based on specific experimental requirements and target species .
Researchers can leverage various bioinformatic resources to enhance MRPS28 studies:
Sequence and structural databases:
Expression databases:
Interaction databases:
Disease associations:
DisGeNET: Gene-disease associations
OMIM: Mendelian disorders related to mitochondrial function
TCGA: Cancer genomics data
Functional annotation resources:
Gene Ontology: Functional classifications
KEGG: Pathway information
Reactome: Detailed pathway data
Prediction tools:
MitoProt: Mitochondrial targeting prediction
TargetP: Subcellular localization prediction
MitoMiner: Integrated mitochondrial protein database
These resources provide valuable context for experimental studies and can help generate new hypotheses regarding MRPS28 function and regulation.
Systematic evaluation of antibody validation data is essential for selecting the most appropriate MRPS28 antibody:
Validation data assessment matrix:
| Validation Parameter | High Quality Evidence | Medium Quality Evidence | Low Quality Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specificity confirmation | Genetic KO/KD controls | Peptide competition | Single WB band only |
| Application validation | Multiple validated applications with images | Single application with images | Claims without supporting images |
| Lot-to-lot consistency | Demonstrated consistency data | Some consistency testing | No consistency information |
| Independent validation | Peer-reviewed publications | Pre-publication data | Manufacturer data only |
| Cross-reactivity testing | Comprehensive species testing | Limited species testing | Predicted only |
Critical evaluation of validation images:
Publication track record:
Search for antibody catalog numbers in literature
Review methods and results from published studies
Contact authors of key papers for feedback on antibody performance
Consider reproducibility across different research groups
Independent validation approaches:
Decision framework:
Prioritize antibodies with multiple validation methods
Consider application-specific validation for your intended use
Evaluate cost-benefit for research-critical applications
Factor in reproducibility needs for long-term projects
Thorough evaluation of validation data increases confidence in antibody performance and experimental results reliability.
MRPS28 research is providing new insights into mitochondrial disease mechanisms:
Mitochondrial translation defects:
Disease associations:
Tissue-specific effects:
Therapeutic implications:
Understanding MRPS28 function may reveal new therapeutic targets
Small molecules targeting mitochondrial translation show promise in preclinical studies
Antibody-based detection methods are essential for evaluating treatment effects on mitochondrial ribosome integrity
Diagnostic applications:
Ongoing research using MRPS28 antibodies continues to expand our understanding of mitochondrial disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic approaches.
Recent technological and methodological advances are enhancing MRPS28 antibody applications:
Multiplexed imaging approaches:
Cyclic immunofluorescence (CycIF) allows detection of >40 proteins in the same sample
Mass cytometry imaging (IMC) enables antibody-based detection with metal isotope labels
These approaches permit simultaneous analysis of MRPS28 with multiple other proteins
Super-resolution microscopy advances:
STORM, PALM, and STED microscopy provide nanoscale resolution of mitochondrial structures
Expansion microscopy physically enlarges specimens for enhanced resolution
These techniques reveal precise MRPS28 localization within mitochondrial compartments
Single-cell proteomics integration:
Spatial transcriptomics correlation:
Integration of antibody staining with spatial transcriptomics
Correlates MRPS28 protein distribution with local transcriptome profiles
Provides insights into regional variation in mitochondrial function
Automated high-throughput screening:
Automated immunostaining and imaging platforms
Machine learning-based image analysis of MRPS28 patterns
Enables large-scale screening of genetic or chemical perturbations
Antibody engineering improvements:
Recombinant antibody technologies with improved reproducibility
Nanobodies and single-domain antibodies for enhanced penetration
Site-specific conjugation methods for better imaging probe attachment
These methodological advances are expanding the capabilities of MRPS28 antibody-based research, enabling more detailed and comprehensive studies of mitochondrial function.