NCDN (Neurochondrin) is a calcium-binding protein implicated in cellular processes such as cytoskeletal organization and neurodevelopment. The NCDN antibody, FITC conjugated is a fluorescently labeled primary antibody designed to detect NCDN protein in immunofluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and other immunoassays. FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate) is covalently attached to the antibody via primary amine groups, enabling visualization under blue light excitation (495 nm) with green emission (525 nm) .
FITC conjugation involves crosslinking the antibody to the fluorophore using isothiocyanate (-N=C=S) chemistry, forming stable thiourea bonds. Key parameters include:
FITC reactivity with lysine residues may reduce antibody affinity if over-conjugated .
Sodium azide preserves antibody stability but is incompatible with peroxide-based detection systems .
The NCDN antibody binds to specific regions of the protein:
| Epitope | Sequence | Reactivity | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| N-terminal | First 100–200 amino acids | Human | Immunofluorescence (IF) |
| AA 403–516 | Internal region | Human | ELISA, Western blot (WB) |
Tested in immunofluorescence on fixed cells and Western blotting with recombinant NCDN .
Cross-reactivity with non-human species (e.g., guinea pig, bat) observed in some clones .
FITC Labeling Trade-offs:
Cancer Research:
Photobleaching: FITC’s susceptibility to light-induced degradation necessitates dark storage and rapid imaging .
Antibody Quality: Polyclonal antibodies may show batch-to-batch variability; validate with control proteins (e.g., recombinant NCDN) .
Cross-Reactivity: Confirm specificity in target vs. non-target cell lines to rule out non-NCDN interactions .
Neurochondrin (NCDN) is a protein that plays significant roles in neuronal function and is being increasingly studied in neuroscience research. This protein is expressed in various tissues but has particularly important functions in the nervous system. When studying NCDN, researchers often use specific antibodies that target different amino acid sequences of the protein, such as those that bind to the AA 403-516 region . These antibodies allow for the detection and visualization of NCDN in various experimental contexts, including cellular localization studies and protein expression analyses.
FITC (Fluorescein Isothiocyanate) conjugation refers to the chemical process of attaching the fluorescent molecule FITC to an antibody. This conjugation occurs through the reaction between the isothiocyanate group of FITC and amino groups on the antibody molecule . The resulting FITC-conjugated antibody emits green fluorescence when excited with light of an appropriate wavelength, typically around 495 nm, with emission at approximately 520 nm. This fluorescent labeling enables researchers to visualize and quantify the target protein in techniques such as flow cytometry, immunofluorescence microscopy, and fluorescence-based immunoassays without the need for secondary detection reagents .
NCDN Antibodies that are FITC conjugated require specific storage conditions to maintain their stability and functionality. According to product information, these antibodies should never be frozen as freezing can compromise the fluorescent properties of FITC and potentially damage the antibody structure . The optimal storage temperature is typically 2-8°C (refrigerated), and the antibodies should be protected from light exposure to prevent photobleaching of the fluorescent dye . Some manufacturers recommend storing the antibody in small aliquots to minimize repeated freeze-thaw cycles if freezing is absolutely necessary, though the primary recommendation remains to avoid freezing altogether.
NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated can be utilized in multiple research applications:
Flow Cytometry: Particularly useful for detecting NCDN in single-cell suspensions, allowing for quantitative analysis of protein expression in different cell populations .
Immunofluorescence (IF): Enables visualization of NCDN localization within cells or tissues using fluorescence microscopy .
Fluorescence-based ELISA (FLISA): Can be used for quantitative detection of NCDN in solution samples with recommended dilutions of approximately 1:1000 .
Western Blotting: Though less common for direct fluorescent detection, FITC-conjugated antibodies can be used in Western blot applications with appropriate imaging systems, using dilutions typically between 1:100-500 .
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Can be employed for detecting NCDN in tissue sections, particularly when fluorescence-based detection methods are preferred .
Based on manufacturer recommendations, the following dilutions are typically suggested for NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated in various applications:
| Application | Recommended Dilution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FLISA | 1:1000 | Higher dilution possible due to sensitivity of fluorescence detection |
| Western Blot | 1:100-500 | Lower dilution range to ensure adequate signal |
| Flow Cytometry | Titration recommended | Typically starts at 1:50-1:200 range |
| Immunofluorescence | 1:100-500 | May require optimization based on sample type |
| Immunohistochemistry | 1:100-200 | Dependent on tissue fixation method |
It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and optimal dilutions should be determined empirically for each experimental system and specific antibody lot .
The binding specificity of NCDN antibodies to different regions of the protein can significantly impact experimental outcomes. For instance, antibodies targeting the AA 403-516 region of NCDN may yield different results compared to those targeting the N-terminal region . These differences arise because:
Epitope accessibility may vary depending on protein folding, post-translational modifications, or protein-protein interactions.
Some epitopes may be conserved across species while others are species-specific, affecting cross-reactivity profiles.
Certain domains of NCDN may be functionally significant, and antibodies binding to these regions could potentially interfere with protein function in functional assays.
Different regions may be differentially exposed during various experimental procedures (e.g., denaturation during Western blotting versus native conditions in flow cytometry).
Researchers should select antibodies targeting specific NCDN regions based on their experimental goals and validate that the chosen epitope is appropriate for the intended application and biological question .
Both polyclonal and monoclonal NCDN antibodies have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different research applications:
Polyclonal NCDN Antibodies:
Advantages:
Recognize multiple epitopes on the NCDN protein, potentially increasing signal strength
More tolerant to minor changes in the antigen (e.g., slight denaturation, polymorphisms)
Often work well across multiple applications (Western blot, IHC, IF, etc.)
Generally less expensive and faster to produce than monoclonals
Limitations:
Batch-to-batch variability may affect reproducibility
May exhibit higher background due to recognition of similar epitopes on other proteins
Less specific than monoclonal antibodies
Monoclonal NCDN Antibodies:
Advantages:
Consistent specificity with minimal batch-to-batch variation
Typically higher specificity for a single epitope
Better suited for distinguishing between closely related proteins
Excellent for quantitative applications requiring high reproducibility
Limitations:
May be more sensitive to changes in the epitope conformation
Sometimes less versatile across different applications
Generally more expensive and time-consuming to produce
The available NCDN antibodies conjugated to FITC include polyclonal options that target specific regions like AA 403-516, which offer good versatility across applications while maintaining reasonable specificity .
Optimizing multi-color flow cytometry experiments with NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated requires careful consideration of several factors:
Panel Design:
Compensation:
Titration:
Determine the optimal concentration of NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated by performing antibody titration
Plot signal-to-noise ratio against antibody concentration to identify the optimal dilution
Combined Markers Strategy:
Consider using approaches like the 4-colors method (CD4-FITC/CD8-PE/CD3-PC5/CD19-FITC) where multiple antibodies share the same fluorochrome channel if they target mutually exclusive cell populations
This approach can maximize the information obtained while reducing the number of fluorescence channels required
Gating Strategy:
Develop appropriate gating strategies that account for any potential overlap between FITC signals
Include FMO (Fluorescence Minus One) controls to set accurate gates
Research has demonstrated that carefully designed multi-color panels can yield accurate and reproducible results even when the same fluorochrome (like FITC) is used for different antibodies, provided the target proteins are expressed on different cell populations .
Cross-reactivity is an important consideration when working with NCDN antibodies. Several factors can contribute to cross-reactivity issues:
Species Cross-Reactivity:
Most commercially available NCDN antibodies, including FITC-conjugated ones, are primarily reactive with human NCDN
Some antibodies may exhibit cross-reactivity with NCDN from other species, but this should be experimentally verified
When working with non-human samples, species-specific validation is essential
Structural Homology:
Proteins with structural similarities to portions of NCDN may be recognized by NCDN antibodies
This is particularly relevant for polyclonal antibodies that recognize multiple epitopes
Post-translational Modifications:
Modifications like phosphorylation, glycosylation, or proteolytic processing can alter epitope recognition
These modifications may vary across cell types or conditions, affecting antibody binding
Isoform Specificity:
To address potential cross-reactivity issues:
Perform appropriate negative controls (including isotype controls)
Validate antibody specificity using known positive and negative samples
Consider using multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes for confirmation
Review literature for reported cross-reactivities with specific NCDN antibodies
Proper experimental controls are essential when working with NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated:
Essential Controls:
Isotype Control:
Negative Control Samples:
Include samples known not to express NCDN
Helps establish background fluorescence levels
Positive Control Samples:
Use samples with confirmed NCDN expression
Serves as a reference for expected signal intensity and pattern
Unstained Controls:
Samples with no antibody added
Establishes baseline autofluorescence
Blocking Controls:
Pre-incubate with unlabeled NCDN antibody before adding FITC-conjugated antibody
Confirms specificity of binding
Additional Controls for Specific Applications:
| Application | Recommended Additional Controls |
|---|---|
| Flow Cytometry | FMO (Fluorescence Minus One) controls, single-color compensation controls |
| Immunofluorescence | Secondary antibody-only control, peptide competition control |
| FLISA | Standard curve with recombinant NCDN protein |
| Western Blot | Molecular weight marker, blocking peptide control |
Including these controls helps ensure that the observed signals are specific to NCDN and not artifacts or non-specific binding events .
The process of conjugating FITC to antibodies involves several critical steps. Here is a detailed protocol based on established methodologies:
Materials Required:
Purified monoclonal or polyclonal antibody (1-2 mg/ml)
FITC labeling buffer (0.05 M sodium carbonate, 0.15 M NaCl, pH 9.2)
5 mg/ml FITC, isomer I, in anhydrous dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
Final dialysis buffer (PBS with 0.1% sodium azide)
Dialysis tubing or cassettes
Protocol:
Antibody Preparation:
Concentration Determination:
FITC Conjugation:
Removal of Unbound FITC:
Determination of F/P Ratio:
This conjugation process creates stable FITC-labeled antibodies suitable for various fluorescence-based applications. The protocol may need optimization depending on the specific antibody characteristics and intended use .
Determining the optimal fluorochrome-to-protein (F/P) ratio is crucial for ensuring maximum sensitivity while maintaining antibody functionality. Here's a methodological approach:
Measuring F/P Ratio:
After conjugation, calculate the F/P ratio using spectrophotometric measurements:
Optimal F/P Ratio Range:
Testing Different F/P Ratios:
Prepare antibodies with varying F/P ratios by adjusting:
FITC concentration during conjugation
Reaction time
Reaction pH (higher pH typically increases conjugation efficiency)
Performance Evaluation:
Test each preparation using:
Flow cytometry to determine signal-to-noise ratio
Binding assays to ensure antigen recognition is maintained
Stability tests to assess fluorescence retention over time
Application-Specific Considerations:
Flow cytometry typically benefits from higher F/P ratios (5-8)
Immunofluorescence microscopy may require lower F/P ratios (3-5) to reduce background
For NCDN antibodies specifically, maintaining the appropriate F/P ratio is essential to ensure detection of this protein in various experimental contexts while preserving the antibody's specificity for the target epitope .
When working with NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated, researchers may encounter various technical issues. Here are systematic troubleshooting approaches for common problems:
1. Low or No Signal:
2. High Background:
3. Inconsistent Results:
| Possible Cause | Troubleshooting Approach |
|---|---|
| Batch-to-batch variation | Use the same lot number when possible; re-validate new lots |
| Variable sample preparation | Standardize fixation and permeabilization protocols |
| Antibody instability | Prepare fresh working dilutions; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles |
| Instrument variability | Include calibration beads; standardize instrument settings |
| Protocol inconsistencies | Document protocols thoroughly; minimize procedural variations |
4. Flow Cytometry-Specific Issues:
For compensation problems in multi-color panels where FITC is used alongside other fluorochromes, prepare single-color controls using the same cell type and antibody concentration
When using the same fluorochrome (FITC) for two different antibodies, ensure the target proteins are expressed on mutually exclusive cell populations
Validate gating strategies using FMO (Fluorescence Minus One) controls
5. Immunofluorescence-Specific Issues:
For high background in tissue sections, try longer washing steps or increase detergent concentration
If nuclear staining is desired, ensure proper permeabilization steps are included
For co-localization studies, capture single-channel images to verify absence of bleed-through
These troubleshooting approaches provide a systematic framework for addressing technical challenges with NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated across various applications .
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for ensuring reliable research results. Here is a comprehensive approach to validating NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated:
1. Genetic Approaches:
Use NCDN knockout or knockdown cells/tissues as negative controls
Compare signal in cells with known NCDN expression levels (e.g., overexpression systems)
If available, use RNA-seq or proteomics data to correlate antibody signal with NCDN expression levels
2. Biochemical Validation:
Perform peptide competition assays by pre-incubating the antibody with the immunizing peptide (e.g., recombinant NCDN protein 403-516AA)
Compare results with different antibodies targeting distinct NCDN epitopes
For Western blot applications, verify that the detected protein has the expected molecular weight
3. Immunological Methods:
Use isotype controls (rabbit IgG-FITC) at the same concentration as the NCDN antibody
Perform side-by-side comparisons with validated non-conjugated NCDN antibodies followed by FITC-conjugated secondary antibodies
Test cross-reactivity with related proteins if applicable
4. Application-Specific Validation:
| Application | Validation Approach |
|---|---|
| Flow Cytometry | Compare with known NCDN expression patterns; use blocking antibodies |
| Immunofluorescence | Co-localization with antibodies against known NCDN-interacting proteins |
| ELISA/FLISA | Standard curve with recombinant NCDN; spike-and-recovery experiments |
| Western Blot | Molecular weight verification; comparison with non-FITC conjugated antibodies |
5. Documentation and Reporting:
Record detailed validation protocols
Document lot numbers and validation results
Consider following antibody validation guidelines from initiatives like the Antibody Validation Initiative
Thorough validation ensures that the signals observed with NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated truly represent NCDN distribution and abundance, rather than artifacts or non-specific binding .
Designing effective multi-color panels that include NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated requires strategic planning to maximize information while minimizing spectral overlap. Here are best practices based on scientific evidence:
1. Fluorochrome Selection and Pairing:
FITC has an excitation maximum at ~495 nm and emission maximum at ~520 nm
Avoid fluorochromes with significant spectral overlap with FITC, particularly PE-FITC tandems
Consider the following pairing strategy for optimal separation:
2. Panel Design Strategies:
Place FITC on abundant targets or markers with clear positive/negative populations
Reserve brightest fluorochromes (not FITC) for low-expression targets
Consider innovative approaches like the 4-colors method that uses the same fluorochrome (FITC) for antibodies targeting mutually exclusive cell populations
3. Experimental Validation:
Perform single-color controls for each fluorochrome
Include FMO (Fluorescence Minus One) controls for accurate gating
Validate new panels with samples of known composition
4. Technical Considerations:
Ensure proper instrument setup and daily calibration
Perform thorough compensation using single-stained controls
Consider the use of spectral unmixing on newer cytometers
5. Data Analysis:
Develop a consistent gating strategy
Account for autofluorescence in the FITC channel
Consider computational approaches for complex panels
Research has demonstrated that well-designed panels like CD4-FITC/CD8-PE/CD3-PC5/CD19-FITC can effectively distinguish between different lymphocyte populations even when using the same fluorochrome (FITC) for two different markers (CD4 and CD19) that are expressed on different cell types .
NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated has significant applications in neuroscience research due to the important roles of Neurochondrin in neuronal function. Key research applications include:
Neuronal Differentiation Studies:
NCDN antibodies can be used to track expression changes during neuronal differentiation
Flow cytometry with FITC-conjugated NCDN antibodies allows for quantitative assessment of NCDN expression in developing neurons
Time-course experiments can reveal temporal regulation of NCDN during neural development
Subcellular Localization:
Immunofluorescence microscopy using NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated enables direct visualization of NCDN distribution within neurons
Co-localization studies with markers for different neuronal compartments can reveal where NCDN functions
High-resolution imaging techniques combined with FITC-labeled antibodies can provide detailed insights into NCDN dynamics
Synaptic Plasticity Research:
NCDN has been implicated in synaptic plasticity mechanisms
FITC-conjugated antibodies allow for the detection of NCDN in synaptic preparations
Changes in NCDN localization or expression during learning paradigms can be monitored
Neurodevelopmental Disorder Studies:
Alterations in NCDN expression or localization may be associated with neurodevelopmental conditions
Flow cytometry with NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated enables high-throughput screening of patient-derived samples
Comparative analyses between control and disorder-specific samples can reveal pathological differences
Neural Circuit Mapping:
These applications highlight the versatility of FITC-conjugated NCDN antibodies in advancing our understanding of neuronal function and development.
The choice of fluorochrome for antibody conjugation significantly impacts experimental outcomes. Here's a comparative analysis of FITC versus other common fluorochromes for NCDN detection:
FITC Characteristics:
Excitation maximum: ~495 nm
Emission maximum: ~520 nm
Quantum yield: Moderate (0.85)
Photostability: Moderate, susceptible to photobleaching
pH sensitivity: Significant (fluorescence decreases at lower pH)
Comparative Analysis:
| Fluorochrome | Advantages vs. FITC | Disadvantages vs. FITC | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| PE (Phycoerythrin) | Brighter (~5-10x); better photostability | Larger size may affect antibody binding; more expensive | Low abundance targets; flow cytometry |
| Alexa Fluor 488 | Better photostability; less pH-sensitive | More expensive; similar spectral profile to FITC | Long-term imaging; confocal microscopy |
| TRITC | Different spectral profile for multiplexing | Less bright than PE; moderate photostability | Multi-color microscopy |
| APC | Spectrally distinct; bright signal | Larger size; more expensive | Multi-color flow cytometry |
Decision Factors for Choosing FITC for NCDN Detection:
Instrumentation Compatibility:
FITC is compatible with virtually all flow cytometers and fluorescence microscopes
Standard FITC filter sets are universally available
Multi-color Experimental Design:
Cost Considerations:
Application-Specific Considerations:
For flow cytometry of abundant targets: FITC is suitable
For imaging fixed specimens: Consider photobleaching limitations
For pH-sensitive environments: Consider pH-stable alternatives
Conjugation Chemistry:
The optimal choice depends on the specific research question, available instrumentation, target abundance, and experimental design requirements .
Recent methodological advances have significantly enhanced the utility and performance of FITC-conjugated antibodies, including those targeting NCDN:
1. Conjugation Chemistry Improvements:
Development of optimized buffer systems that enhance conjugation efficiency while preserving antibody activity
Introduction of site-specific conjugation methods that avoid disrupting the antigen-binding regions
Standardized protocols that produce consistent fluorochrome/protein (F/P) ratios between 3.0-8.0
2. Photobleaching Reduction Strategies:
Anti-fade mounting media formulations specifically optimized for FITC
Oxygen-scavenging systems that reduce photobleaching during prolonged imaging
Development of image acquisition protocols that minimize exposure times
3. Multi-color Panel Design Innovations:
Novel panel designs using the same fluorochrome (FITC) for antibodies targeting mutually exclusive cell populations
The 4-colors method (CD4-FITC/CD8-PE/CD3-PC5/CD19-FITC) demonstrates how FITC can be used twice in the same panel
This approach maximizes the information obtained while reducing the number of fluorescence channels required
4. Advanced Flow Cytometry Technologies:
Spectral flow cytometry that better resolves overlapping fluorochromes
Improved compensation algorithms that reduce spillover artifacts
High-dimensional analysis methods that extract more information from multi-color data
5. Imaging Advancements:
Super-resolution microscopy techniques compatible with FITC-conjugated antibodies
Automated high-content imaging systems that standardize image acquisition
Quantitative image analysis tools that provide consistent measurements
6. Sample Preparation Enhancements:
Optimized fixation and permeabilization protocols that preserve epitope accessibility
Antigen retrieval methods that enhance detection in fixed tissues
Blocking strategies that reduce non-specific binding
These methodological advances have collectively improved the sensitivity, specificity, and versatility of FITC-conjugated antibodies, making them more valuable tools for NCDN detection and characterization in various research contexts .
Integrating NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated into high-dimensional cytometry experiments requires careful planning and optimization. Here's a comprehensive approach:
1. Panel Design Considerations:
Spectral Positioning:
Place FITC in a channel with minimal spillover from other fluorochromes
Use fluorochromes with minimal spectral overlap with FITC (e.g., APC, PE-Cy7)
Consider brightness matching where brighter fluorochromes are paired with less abundant targets
Novel Multiplexing Approaches:
2. Controls for High-Dimensional Analysis:
| Control Type | Purpose | Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| FMO Controls | Set accurate gates; identify spillover | Omit FITC-NCDN from full panel |
| Single-Color Controls | Establish compensation matrix | NCDN-FITC alone on positive cells |
| Biological Controls | Validate panel design | Known NCDN+ and NCDN- samples |
| Isotype Controls | Assess non-specific binding | Rabbit IgG-FITC at matching concentration |
3. Sample Preparation Optimization:
Standardize fixation and permeabilization protocols
Optimize staining conditions (temperature, time, buffer composition)
Consider sequential staining approaches if steric hindrance is a concern
4. Data Analysis Strategies:
Compensation:
Apply proper compensation using single-color controls
Verify compensation accuracy with visual inspection of biaxial plots
Dimensionality Reduction:
Use algorithms like tSNE, UMAP, or FlowSOM for visualization
Include NCDN expression as a parameter in clustering algorithms
Population Identification:
Apply manual gating guided by dimensionality reduction
Use computational tools to identify populations based on multiple markers
5. Validation Approaches:
Compare high-dimensional results with conventional analysis
Verify findings with orthogonal techniques (e.g., imaging)
Perform replicate experiments to ensure reproducibility
By following these guidelines, researchers can effectively integrate NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated into high-dimensional cytometry experiments, enabling comprehensive analysis of NCDN expression in complex cellular systems .
While the search results don't specifically detail recent studies using NCDN Antibody, FITC conjugated, we can extrapolate from methodological advances in antibody-based research to understand potential applications. Recent advances in flow cytometry and immunofluorescence techniques suggest several promising research directions:
Multi-parameter Analysis in Neurodevelopmental Research:
The 4-colors method demonstrated for lymphocyte analysis (CD4-FITC/CD8-PE/CD3-PC5/CD19-FITC) shows how FITC-conjugated antibodies can be effectively used in multi-parameter analysis
Similar approaches could be applied to study NCDN expression alongside other neuronal markers during development and in pathological conditions
High-throughput Screening Applications:
FITC-conjugated antibodies are compatible with high-throughput flow cytometry and imaging platforms
This enables screening of compounds that might affect NCDN expression or localization in neuronal populations
Methodological Innovations:
Improved Multi-color Flow Cytometry:
Studies have demonstrated the value of innovative antibody-fluorochrome combinations that maximize information from limited fluorescence channels
The validation of approaches using the same fluorochrome (FITC) for antibodies targeting mutually exclusive populations opens new possibilities for complex experimental designs
Potential Clinical Applications:
Flow cytometry with fluorescently labeled antibodies has important clinical applications
While primarily demonstrated with lymphocyte markers, similar approaches could be developed for neurological biomarkers, potentially including NCDN
These developments highlight how FITC-conjugated antibodies continue to be valuable tools in biomedical research, with ongoing methodological improvements expanding their utility in complex experimental designs .