The myf6 antibody is a critical research tool used to detect the Myogenic Factor 6 (MYF6) protein, which plays a pivotal role in muscle differentiation and niche signaling. This antibody targets the MYF6 protein, a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor involved in regulating genes critical for skeletal muscle development and stem cell maintenance. Recent studies highlight its utility in understanding muscle regeneration, cancer biology, and niche signaling pathways .
Location: Chromosome 12q21.31 (GRCh38.p14)
Aliases: MRF4, herculin, CNM3, class C basic helix-loop-helix protein 4
Associated Pathways: Nervous system development, immune response, MEF2-mediated T-cell activation .
Disease Links: Centronuclear myopathy (ADCNM1/2), hairy cell leukemia (HCL) .
Molecular Weight: 27 kDa (242 amino acids)
Subcellular Localization: Nucleus
Function: Transcriptional regulation of muscle-specific genes and myokines (e.g., EGF, VEGFA) .
ChIP-Seq: Confirmed binding to enhancer regions of myokine genes (EGF, VEGFA) .
ELISA: Detects serum EGF/VEGFA in Myf6-KO mice (reduction by 50–70%) .
Western Blot: Detects a 27 kDa band in skeletal muscle lysates .
Myf6 antibodies have shown:
EGFR Signaling: Myf6-KO mice exhibit reduced EGF production, leading to premature differentiation of muscle stem cells (MuSCs) .
Myokine Secretion: Myf6 regulates VEGFA and LIF, modulating MuSC quiescence and niche maintenance .
Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL): MYF6 is universally expressed in HCL and CLL, validated via IHC and RQ-PCR .
Sarcomas: Used to study myogenic differentiation in rhabdomyosarcoma models .
Linked to centronuclear myopathy (ADCNM), with antibodies aiding in diagnostic and mechanistic studies .
| Supplier | Applications | Reactivity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proteintech (11754-1-AP) | WB, IHC, IF, ChIP, ELISA | Hu, Ms, Rt | $305–$499 |
| Thermo Fisher Scientific | WB, IHC | Hu, Ms, Rt | $144–$357 |
| Santa Cruz Biotechnology | WB, FCM, IF, IHC-p | Hu | $357 |
| BosterBio | WB, IHC | Hu, Ms, Rt | $405 |
Applications : Western Blot
Sample dilution: 1:1000
Review: Protein level measurement by western blot of myogenesis regulating genes in C2C12 and GAPDH as housekeeping gene n = 4.
MYF6 (myogenic factor 6), also known as herculin, is one of the four myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs). It is primarily expressed in fully differentiated muscle fibers, unlike the other three MRFs (Myf5, MyoD, and Myogenin) which are transiently expressed during muscle stem cell activation, commitment, and terminal differentiation . MYF6 is a transcription factor that regulates a broad spectrum of myokines and muscle-secreted proteins in skeletal myofibers, including EGF . It plays a crucial role in establishing ligand/receptor interaction between muscle stem cells and their associated muscle fibers, thereby contributing to the maintenance of the muscle stem cell niche environment . The protein has a calculated molecular weight of 27 kDa (242 amino acids) and is encoded by the gene with ID 4618 in the NCBI database .
The MYF6 antibody (11754-1-AP) has been extensively validated for multiple applications in research settings. According to technical documentation, this antibody can be reliably used in:
Western Blot (WB) at dilutions of 1:500-1:1000
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) at dilutions of 1:500-1:2000
Immunofluorescence (IF)/Immunocytochemistry (ICC) at dilutions of 1:50-1:500
Chromatin Immunoprecipitation (ChIP)
The antibody has been cited in multiple publications, particularly for Western Blot and ChIP applications . Researchers should note that optimal dilutions may be sample-dependent, and it is recommended to titrate the reagent in each testing system to obtain optimal results .
The MYF6 antibody (11754-1-AP) has demonstrated reactivity with human, mouse, and rat samples . In published research, it has been predominantly used with mouse and human samples . Positive Western Blot detection has been confirmed in mouse skeletal muscle tissue . For immunohistochemistry, positive detection has been demonstrated in mouse skeletal muscle tissue with recommended antigen retrieval using TE buffer pH 9.0 (alternatively, citrate buffer pH 6.0 may be used) . Positive IF/ICC detection has been documented in C2C12 cells, a mouse myoblast cell line commonly used in muscle differentiation studies .
For optimal preservation of antibody activity, the MYF6 antibody should be stored at -20°C . Under these conditions, the antibody remains stable for one year after shipment . The antibody is supplied in PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol at pH 7.3 . Importantly, aliquoting is not necessary for -20°C storage of this particular antibody preparation . Some preparations (20μl sizes) contain 0.1% BSA, which helps stabilize the antibody . When handling the antibody, standard laboratory safety precautions should be followed, particularly due to the presence of sodium azide in the storage buffer.
MYF6 antibody can be employed in Chromatin Immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) to identify genome-wide binding sites of MYF6 in myogenic cells. Research has demonstrated that MYF6 occupies regulatory domains of cytokine genes in differentiated muscle cells . When ChIP-seq data is unavailable due to lack of commercial ChIP-grade antibodies, researchers have successfully used Chromatin Tandem Affinity Purification Sequencing (ChTAP-Seq) with MYF6-CTAP constructs .
Analysis of such data has revealed that MYF6 binds to 12,885 sites in primary myotubes, with the top scoring motif being the canonical E-box, centrally located and closely juxtaposed by the MEF2A binding motif . This pattern suggests cooperation between MYF6 and MEF2A transcription factors. The density of E-box motifs is significantly higher under MYF6 peaks compared to random genomic regions, mirroring patterns observed for other myogenic factors such as MyoD and Myf5 .
To implement this methodology:
Generate primary myoblast cell lines expressing tagged MYF6 or use antibodies for direct ChIP
Perform chromatin immunoprecipitation following standard protocols
Sequence precipitated DNA and analyze using tools like MACS2 for peak calling
Use motif analysis tools such as MEME suite to identify binding motifs
Compare with controls (e.g., empty vector or IgG) to establish specificity
MYF6 establishes a ligand/receptor interaction between muscle stem cells (MuSCs) and their associated muscle fibers, creating a regulatory niche environment . Research indicates that homozygous deletion of Myf6 causes a progressive reduction in the stem cell pool during postnatal life due to spontaneous exit from quiescence, despite normal muscle stem cell compartments at birth .
To investigate this role, researchers can employ several experimental approaches using MYF6 antibody:
Immunofluorescence staining of muscle sections to evaluate MuSC numbers and myofiber architecture in wildtype versus Myf6-knockout models
Western blot analysis to quantify MYF6 expression levels during different stages of muscle regeneration
Co-immunoprecipitation to identify protein interaction partners in the MuSC niche
ELISA assays of serum or myotube secretome to measure levels of MYF6-regulated myokines like EGF and VEGFA
Studies have shown that serum from Myf6-knockout mice contains significantly reduced levels of key myokines compared to controls . Moreover, secretome from Myf6-KO myotubes exhibits lower levels of EGF and VEGFA, which can be rescued by reintroduction of Myf6 through retroviral infection . These findings suggest that MYF6 antibody-based assays can help elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which MYF6 maintains muscle stem cell homeostasis.
When using MYF6 antibody for immunohistochemistry, several technical considerations must be addressed to minimize artifacts:
Following the manufacturer's recommended protocols while incorporating these considerations can significantly improve the specificity and reproducibility of MYF6 immunohistochemistry results.
While MYF6 is primarily associated with skeletal muscle, unexpected expression patterns have been observed in certain hematological malignancies, particularly hairy cell leukemia (HCL) . Expression microarrays comparing HCL with its variant form (HCLv) revealed that MYF6 showed the greatest differential expression among 24,694 genes analyzed, with 18.5-fold and 10.8-fold higher expression in HCL than HCLv (p<0.0001) .
Real-time quantitative PCR (RQ-PCR) confirmed MYF6 expression in:
100% of 152 classic HCL samples
35% of 51 HCLv samples
92% of 12 HCL samples expressing unmutated IGHV4-34
73% of 48 chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) samples
8% of 12 mantle cell lymphoma samples
The mechanism behind this aberrant expression appears to involve epigenetic regulation, as hypomethylation status of MYF6 supported expression in HCL more than in HCLv . This suggests that MYF6 could serve as a potential biomarker for monitoring minimal residual disease in HCL, as 48% of post-treatment blood samples that were negative by flow cytometry remained MYF6-positive by RQ-PCR .
Researchers studying hematological malignancies can employ MYF6 antibody in combination with other markers to improve diagnostic accuracy and monitor treatment efficacy. Western blot or immunofluorescence analysis using MYF6 antibody could complement molecular approaches for detecting aberrant MYF6 expression in leukemic cells.
Investigating MYF6's regulatory role in myokine production requires a multi-faceted approach:
ChIP-seq analysis: Using MYF6 antibody for chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing can identify direct binding of MYF6 to regulatory regions of myokine genes. Research has shown enrichment of MYF6 ChIP-seq reads around the transcription start sites (TSS) of genes like VEGFA and EGF .
Transcriptome analysis: RNA-Seq comparing wildtype and Myf6-knockout muscle samples can reveal differential expression of myokine genes. This approach has demonstrated that loss of Myf6 leads to downregulation of key myokine genes such as VEGFA and EGF in vivo .
Protein quantification: ELISA assays of:
Serum from wildtype versus Myf6-knockout mice
Conditioned media (secretome) from cultured myotubes
ELISA results have shown significant reduction in key myokines like EGF and VEGFA in both serum and secretome from Myf6-knockout models .
Rescue experiments: Reintroduction of Myf6 by retroviral infection into Myf6-KO myotubes and subsequent measurement of myokine levels by ELISA and RT-qPCR can confirm the specificity of MYF6's regulatory role. Such experiments have demonstrated restoration of EGF and VEGFA levels following Myf6 reintroduction .
Correlation with methylation status: Analysis of MYF6 promoter methylation alongside expression data can reveal epigenetic mechanisms of regulation. Hypomethylation status has been shown to support MYF6 expression .
By integrating these methodological approaches, researchers can comprehensively characterize the mechanistic basis of MYF6's function in regulating myokine production and secretion.
For optimal Western blot detection of MYF6, the following protocol parameters should be considered:
Sample preparation:
Gel electrophoresis:
Transfer conditions:
Semi-dry or wet transfer systems are both appropriate
Use PVDF membranes for better protein retention and signal quality
Blocking:
5% non-fat dry milk or BSA in TBST is typically effective
Block for 1 hour at room temperature
Antibody incubation:
Detection:
Controls:
Following the manufacturer's protocol for Western blot using the MYF6 antibody will provide a solid starting point, with optimization based on specific laboratory conditions and equipment .
To investigate MYF6's role in muscle stem cell quiescence, a comprehensive experimental design should include:
Animal models:
Muscle stem cell isolation:
Fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS) of muscle stem cells using standard markers (e.g., Pax7+/CD34+/α7-integrin+)
Compare isolation yields between Myf6-knockout and wildtype mice across different ages
Quiescence assessments:
Immunostaining for quiescence markers (e.g., Pax7, Calcein, Ki67-, PyroninY-, H3K4me3)
Cell cycle analysis using EdU incorporation or propidium iodide staining
RNA-seq for quiescence gene signature analysis
Niche factor analysis:
Signaling pathway investigation:
In vitro validation:
Primary myoblast cultures from Myf6-knockout and wildtype mice
Quiescence induction assays (e.g., suspension culture or specific media conditions)
Co-culture experiments with myotubes expressing or lacking MYF6
This experimental design allows for comprehensive characterization of how MYF6 influences muscle stem cell quiescence through direct and indirect mechanisms, particularly through regulation of myokine production.
When implementing multiplex immunofluorescence with MYF6 antibody, several quality control measures are essential:
Antibody validation:
Fluorophore selection and spectral separation:
Panel design considerations:
Technical controls:
Image acquisition standardization:
Maintain consistent exposure settings across samples
Use automated microscopy platforms when possible
Include fluorescent intensity calibration beads
Analysis quality control:
Apply consistent thresholding methods
Include cell segmentation accuracy assessments
Perform statistical validation of co-localization measurements
Implement batch correction if necessary
Reproducibility measures:
Process biological replicates simultaneously
Include technical replicates
Document all protocol details for reproducibility
These quality control measures will ensure reliable and interpretable results when using MYF6 antibody in multiplex immunofluorescence applications, particularly important when investigating complex cellular relationships in muscle tissue or unexpected expression in hematological malignancies .
When encountering inconsistent staining patterns with MYF6 antibody, systematically address potential issues:
Sample preparation variables:
Antibody-related factors:
Technical protocol adjustments:
Modify blocking conditions (time, temperature, blocking agent)
Adjust incubation times and temperatures
Implement additional washing steps
Consider background reduction reagents
Control implementations:
Detection system optimization:
Compare different visualization methods (fluorescent vs. chromogenic)
Adjust signal amplification steps
Optimize counterstaining to improve contrast
Tissue-specific considerations:
Be aware that MYF6 expression varies by muscle fiber type
Consider developmental stage (expression patterns change during myogenesis)
Account for pathological conditions that may alter expression
Instrument settings:
Standardize microscope parameters (exposure, gain, offset)
Use image analysis software with appropriate thresholding
Systematically testing these variables while maintaining careful documentation can identify the source of inconsistency and lead to reproducible staining patterns.
Interpreting MYF6 expression in leukemia samples presents several potential pitfalls that researchers should be aware of:
Context-dependent expression patterns:
Methodological considerations:
Biological interpretation challenges:
Clinical interpretation complexities:
Persistence of MYF6 expression post-treatment may indicate minimal residual disease or could represent non-malignant expression
Expression patterns may evolve during disease progression or treatment
Cut-off values for positive vs. negative expression need standardization
Technical limitations:
Sample purity affects interpretation (leukemic cell content)
RNA quality and degradation can impact PCR-based detection
Antibody-based detection may be influenced by protein modifications
Comparative analysis requirements:
Expression should be evaluated relative to appropriate controls
Multi-marker panels provide more reliable classification than single markers
Integration with other diagnostic methods is essential
Researchers should approach MYF6 expression in leukemia with these considerations in mind, implementing appropriate controls and complementary techniques to ensure accurate interpretation.
Validating the specificity of chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments using MYF6 antibody requires a multi-layered approach:
Pre-ChIP antibody validation:
Experimental controls during ChIP:
Quantitative validation by qPCR:
Motif analysis for ChIP-seq data:
Functional validation:
Cross-validation with alternative methods:
Compare with published ChIP-seq datasets if available
Consider orthogonal methods like ATAC-seq to confirm chromatin accessibility
Use DNA affinity precipitation assays as alternative binding assessment
Replication and reproducibility:
Perform biological replicates
Validate key findings with alternative antibody clones if available
Apply consistent bioinformatic pipelines for analysis
Following these validation steps ensures that ChIP results using MYF6 antibody reflect true biological binding events rather than technical artifacts or non-specific interactions.
MYF6 antibody can be integrated into cutting-edge single-cell analyses through several innovative approaches:
Single-cell protein profiling:
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) incorporating MYF6 antibody conjugated to metal isotopes
Imaging mass cytometry for spatial context in tissue sections
Single-cell Western blotting for quantitative protein analysis
Proximity extension assays for protein-protein interaction studies
Spatial transcriptomics integration:
Combined immunofluorescence with MYF6 antibody and in situ RNA detection
Multiplex immunofluorescence with lineage markers to identify specific cell populations
Spatial mapping of MYF6+ cells in relation to muscle stem cell niches
Correlation of protein expression with single-cell RNA-seq data
Lineage tracking applications:
Pulse-chase experiments with EdU labeling and MYF6 immunostaining
Fate mapping using genetic reporters combined with MYF6 antibody staining
Live-cell imaging with fluorescent-tagged MYF6 constructs
Clonal analysis of myogenic differentiation
Disease-specific applications:
Technical implementations:
Optimized fixation and permeabilization protocols for nuclear transcription factors
Antibody conjugation strategies for compatibility with multiplexed platforms
Signal amplification methods for low-abundance detection
Computational approaches for integrating protein and transcriptome data
These advanced applications of MYF6 antibody in single-cell analyses will provide unprecedented insights into the heterogeneity of muscle development, regeneration processes, and disease manifestations, potentially revealing new therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.
Several emerging technologies can significantly enhance the research utility of MYF6 antibody:
Advanced imaging technologies:
Super-resolution microscopy (STORM, PALM, SIM) for nanoscale visualization of MYF6 localization
Light-sheet microscopy for 3D imaging of intact muscle tissues
Expansion microscopy for improved spatial resolution of nuclear transcription factors
Correlative light and electron microscopy for ultrastructural context
Microfluidic applications:
Droplet-based single-cell protein analysis
Organ-on-chip muscle models with real-time immunofluorescence
Microfluidic Western blotting for higher throughput analysis
Antibody-based microfluidic sorting of specific cell populations
Proximity labeling approaches:
APEX2 or BioID fusion with MYF6 for proximity proteomics
Split-protein complementation assays to study interaction dynamics
FRET/FLIM-based interaction studies with potential binding partners
In situ protein interaction detection using proximity ligation assay
CRISPR-based technologies:
Computational and AI integration:
Biosensor development:
Fluorescent biosensors for real-time monitoring of MYF6 activity
FRET-based reporters for MYF6-DNA binding dynamics
Optogenetic control of MYF6 function with antibody-based readouts
Nanobody-based detection systems for improved tissue penetration
These emerging technologies will expand the breadth and depth of MYF6-focused research, enabling more precise, quantitative, and mechanistic insights into its functions in both normal physiology and disease states.
MYF6's roles in muscle development and unexpected expression in certain leukemias suggest potential therapeutic applications, with MYF6 antibody playing several roles in drug development:
Target validation:
MYF6 antibody can confirm target expression in disease tissues
Immunohistochemistry profiling across tissue panels to assess specificity
Co-localization studies to verify cellular compartmentalization
Quantitative analysis of expression levels in patient samples
Mechanism-of-action studies:
Biomarker development:
Therapeutic approaches for modulation:
Antibody-drug conjugates:
Monitoring therapeutic efficacy:
Pharmacodynamic biomarker development
Assessment of downstream pathway modulation
Correlation of MYF6 levels with clinical outcomes
Resistance mechanism investigation
While direct therapeutic targeting of transcription factors like MYF6 presents challenges, the antibody plays crucial roles in target validation, mechanism studies, and biomarker applications, potentially leading to novel treatments for muscle disorders or certain leukemias where MYF6 is aberrantly expressed.