The NDUFB3 Antibody, HRP conjugated is a polyclonal IgG antibody produced in rabbits, targeting the human NADH dehydrogenase [ubiquinone] 1 beta subcomplex subunit 3 (NDUFB3). Key features include:
Conjugate: Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) for chromogenic or chemiluminescent detection .
Immunogen: Recombinant Human NDUFB3 protein (amino acids 2–65) .
Reactivity: Specific to human samples, validated for ELISA applications .
Molecular Weight: Targets a 11 kDa protein corresponding to NDUFB3’s calculated size .
NDUFB3 is essential for mitochondrial complex I assembly and electron transport. Research shows:
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): Reduced NDUFB3 expression in HCC tissues correlates with increased tumor growth and metastasis. HRP-conjugated antibodies enable precise quantification of NDUFB3 levels in clinical samples .
Metabolic Disorders: NDUFB3 knockdown disrupts complex I activity, elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and triggering apoptosis via JNK signaling .
ELISA Detection: The HRP conjugate facilitates high-throughput screening of NDUFB3 in cell lysates or serum, aiding biomarker discovery .
Cross-Reactivity: While optimized for human samples, related antibodies (e.g., Santa Cruz’s F-12 clone) show reactivity in mouse and rat models, suggesting potential cross-species utility .
Specificity: Western blot analyses confirm a single band at ~11 kDa in human, mouse, and rat tissues .
Positive Controls: Human liver cancer (HepG2) and mouse heart tissues show robust cytoplasmic staining .
Buffer Compatibility: Works in PBS-based diluents with ≤5% non-fat dry milk or BSA blockers .
Cancer Research: NDUFB3 overexpression suppresses HCC progression by restoring complex I activity and ROS homeostasis .
Neurodegeneration: Mutations in NDUFB3-linked pathways contribute to Leigh syndrome and Parkinson’s disease, highlighting its diagnostic potential .
| SKU | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| QA29531_100ug | 100 µg | $299.00 |
| QA29531_50ug | 50 µg | $190.00 |
NDUFB3 is an accessory subunit of the mitochondrial membrane respiratory chain NADH dehydrogenase (Complex I). While not directly involved in catalysis, it plays a crucial structural role in Complex I assembly and stability. Complex I facilitates electron transfer from NADH to the respiratory chain, with ubiquinone being the immediate electron acceptor . NDUFB3 is an integral component of subcomplex Iβ of the hydrophobic membrane arm, essential for proper assembly and function of the respiratory chain . The protein has a molecular weight of approximately 11 kDa and is encoded by the nuclear genome, making it subject to Mendelian inheritance patterns .
Validating NDUFB3 antibody specificity requires multiple complementary approaches:
Western blot analysis:
Confirm the detection of a single band at the expected molecular weight (11 kDa)
Compare band patterns across multiple tissue types known to express NDUFB3 (heart, brain, liver, kidney)
Verify consistent detection across recommended dilution ranges (typically 1:500-1:2000 for polyclonal and 1:1000-1:8000 for monoclonal antibodies)
Immunohistochemistry controls:
Advanced validation strategies:
HRP (Horseradish Peroxidase) conjugation provides several methodological advantages for NDUFB3 detection:
Enhanced experimental efficiency:
Signal optimization benefits:
Provides enzymatic signal amplification, enhancing detection sensitivity for low-abundance targets
Offers compatibility with multiple detection substrates (colorimetric, chemiluminescent, chemifluorescent)
Maintains longer-term stability compared to fluorophore conjugates, allowing extended storage periods
Application versatility:
Particularly valuable for ELISA applications, enabling direct quantification of NDUFB3 levels
Useful for immunohistochemistry applications requiring sensitive detection with minimal background
Compatible with multiplexing when combined with other detection systems (e.g., alkaline phosphatase conjugates)
Based on the search results, commercially available NDUFB3 antibodies demonstrate reactivity with:
Species reactivity profile:
Optimal tissue sources for positive controls:
Cell line validation sources:
The NDUFB3 protein shows high conservation across mammals, explaining the cross-reactivity with multiple species. Researchers should verify specific reactivity claims for individual antibody products, as cross-reactivity can vary based on the epitope targeted and antibody format.
Optimal dilutions vary by antibody format, application, and sample type:
These dilutions should be optimized for each experimental system, considering:
Sample type (tissue vs. cell lysate)
Species source and protein abundance
Detection method sensitivity
Total protein loaded (typically 10-20 μg for tissue lysates)
For reliable NDUFB3 detection in Western blotting, sample preparation must address its properties as a small (11 kDa) mitochondrial membrane protein:
Optimal lysis protocol:
Protein denaturation considerations:
Gel separation optimization:
Transfer parameters:
Blocking and antibody incubation:
A comprehensive control strategy ensures reliable NDUFB3 antibody results:
Monoclonal and polyclonal NDUFB3 antibodies present distinct advantages for specific research applications:
Application-specific considerations:
For Western blotting: Both types work well when optimized; monoclonals provide more consistent results for longitudinal studies
For fixed tissue IHC: Polyclonals may provide better signal in partially denatured samples
For co-immunoprecipitation: Monoclonals may reduce background but polyclonals can capture more protein
For detecting specific NDUFB3 variants: Epitope-specific monoclonals can distinguish wild-type from mutant forms if the epitope includes the mutation site
NDUFB3 antibodies provide valuable tools for studying Complex I assembly defects, particularly in disease models:
Blue Native PAGE (BN-PAGE) combined with Western blotting:
This technique separates intact mitochondrial complexes without denaturation
NDUFB3 antibodies detect both fully assembled Complex I (~980 kDa) and assembly intermediates
In patients with NDUFB3 mutations, partially assembled Complex I intermediates of ~650 kDa are observed, representing accumulation of subcomplex Iβ assembly intermediates
This approach distinguishes between assembly defects and stability issues affecting Complex I
Sequential immunoprecipitation strategies:
NDUFB3 antibodies can pull down intact complexes and interacting partners
Mass spectrometry analysis of co-precipitated proteins reveals successful or failed assembly partnerships
Comparison between control and disease models identifies the stage at which assembly is disrupted
This approach has helped establish NDUFB3's role in subcomplex Iβ of the hydrophobic membrane arm
Immunofluorescence co-localization analysis:
NDUFB3 antibodies combined with antibodies against other Complex I subunits (NDUFA9, NDUFB8)
Co-localization coefficient analysis quantifies proper integration into the complex
Altered distribution patterns in mutant cells indicate specific assembly defects
Particularly valuable for analyzing patient-derived fibroblasts or muscle biopsies
Time-course experiments in cellular models:
Pulse-chase experiments tracking newly synthesized NDUFB3 incorporation into Complex I
Reveals kinetic defects in assembly processes in disease models
Can assess effects of therapeutic interventions on assembly dynamics
Multiple methodologies can be integrated with NDUFB3 immunodetection to establish structure-function relationships:
Combined biochemical and structural analysis:
NDUFB3 protein quantification by Western blot with antibodies of defined specificity
Parallel assessment of Complex I activity by spectrophotometric NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase assays
Correlation of protein levels with enzymatic function provides insight into threshold effects
The search results indicate that decreased steady-state levels of Complex I subunit proteins (NDUFB8 and NDUFA9) correlate with reduced Complex I activity in patients with NDUFB3 mutations
Integrated cellular bioenergetics assessment:
Oxygen consumption rate (OCR) measurements using Seahorse analyzers
Membrane potential assessment using potentiometric dyes (TMRM, JC-1)
ATP production capacity under different substrate conditions
Correlation with NDUFB3 levels to establish functional consequences of altered expression
Proteomics approaches:
Quantitative proteomics to measure stoichiometric changes in all Complex I subunits
Analysis of post-translational modifications affecting NDUFB3 stability or interactions
Interactome mapping to identify altered protein-protein interactions in disease states
These approaches have helped establish that NDUFB3 defects affect the entire Complex I assembly process
Genetic manipulation experiments:
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated NDUFB3 mutation or deletion to model disease states
Rescue experiments with wild-type or mutant NDUFB3 constructs
Dose-dependent expression studies to determine critical thresholds for function
These approaches can help explain the phenotypic variability observed with identical mutations
The recurrent c.64T>C, p.Trp22Arg NDUFB3 mutation offers an important research model for mitochondrial disease. Antibody-based techniques provide valuable insights:
Comparative protein expression analysis:
Western blotting with NDUFB3 antibodies quantifies protein levels in patient samples versus controls
Demonstrated reduced steady-state levels of not only NDUFB3 but also other Complex I components like NDUFB8 and NDUFA9
This suggests the mutation destabilizes the entire complex rather than just affecting the mutant protein
Assembly defect characterization:
BN-PAGE analysis reveals decreased fully assembled Complex I in patient samples
The presence of approximately 650 kDa Complex I assembly intermediates indicates stalled assembly of the membrane arm
Immunoblotting with NDUFB8 reveals these partial assemblies, consistent with defects in subcomplex Iβ formation
Structure-function investigation:
Immunoprecipitation of wild-type versus mutant NDUFB3 to analyze differential binding partners
Analysis of protein stability using cycloheximide chase experiments with Western blot detection
Subcellular fractionation to determine if the mutation affects mitochondrial targeting
Genotype-phenotype correlation studies:
Therapeutic strategy assessment:
Monitoring NDUFB3 and Complex I levels following experimental therapies
Quantifying rescue of assembly defects as a primary endpoint
Correlation with functional recovery in cellular or animal models
Distinguishing between expression defects and conformational changes requires multiple complementary approaches:
Epitope-specific antibody analysis:
Utilize multiple NDUFB3 antibodies targeting different epitopes
Differential detection patterns suggest conformational changes affecting epitope accessibility
Consistent reduction across antibodies suggests decreased expression
This approach is particularly valuable for assessing the effects of point mutations like p.Trp22Arg
mRNA-protein correlation analysis:
Compare NDUFB3 mRNA levels (by RT-qPCR) with protein levels (by Western blot)
Discordance (normal mRNA with low protein) suggests post-transcriptional issues such as protein instability
Proportional reduction in both suggests transcriptional regulation or gene deletion
This helps determine at what level the defect manifests (transcription, translation, or post-translational)
Protein stability assessment protocols:
Cycloheximide chase experiments with antibody detection to measure NDUFB3 half-life
Proteasome inhibition (MG132) with Western blot analysis to determine if degradation is enhanced
Pulse-chase studies to track protein maturation and incorporation into complexes
These approaches can reveal if mutations lead to increased protein turnover
Structural analysis techniques combined with immunodetection:
Limited proteolysis with antibody detection reveals conformational differences that alter protease sensitivity
Detergent solubility profiling with immunoblotting detects aggregation propensity
Native versus denaturing gel electrophoresis comparison identifies conformational dependencies
These methods provide insight into how mutations might affect protein folding and complex assembly
Researchers frequently encounter technical issues when working with NDUFB3 in Western blot applications:
Low molecular weight detection challenges:
NDUFB3's small size (11 kDa) can lead to it running off standard gels or poor retention during transfer
Solution: Use higher percentage gels (15-20%) or gradient gels (4-20%)
Optimize transfer conditions specifically for small proteins (shorter time, lower voltage, cold transfer buffer)
Use 0.2 μm pore size PVDF membranes rather than 0.45 μm or nitrocellulose
Signal intensity optimization:
Low abundance in some samples can result in weak signals
Solutions: Increase protein loading (20-30 μg for cell lines, 10-15 μg for heart tissue)
Use signal enhancement systems (high-sensitivity ECL substrates)
Consider using HRP-conjugated primary antibodies to eliminate signal loss from secondary antibody steps
Specificity concerns:
Multiple bands or high background can complicate interpretation
Solutions: Validate specificity using heart tissue as positive control (highest expression)
Optimize blocking conditions (5% NFDM/TBST is consistently recommended)
Titrate antibody concentration carefully (excessive antibody increases background)
Sample-dependent variations:
Achieving specific NDUFB3 detection in tissues requires systematic optimization:
Antigen retrieval optimization:
The search results indicate TE buffer pH 9.0 is recommended for some NDUFB3 antibodies in IHC applications, with citrate buffer pH 6.0 as an alternative
Test multiple retrieval methods (heat-induced versus enzyme-based) with controlled temperature and duration
Optimize based on tissue type and fixation method used
Signal amplification considerations:
For low-abundance detection, consider tyramide signal amplification (TSA)
Polymer detection systems can provide enhanced sensitivity with reduced background
For HRP-conjugated primary antibodies, ensure complete blocking of endogenous peroxidases
Automated staining platforms can improve consistency across multiple samples
Blocking strategy enhancement:
Use species-matched serum corresponding to secondary antibody host
Add protein blockers (BSA, casein) to reduce hydrophobic interactions
Consider specialized blocking reagents for endogenous biotin, peroxidase, or IgG
Dual blocking with both protein and detergent can reduce multiple forms of background
Validation approaches:
When using NDUFB3 antibodies for immunofluorescence microscopy, several factors can significantly impact results:
Fixation method considerations:
Paraformaldehyde (2-4%) preserves antigenicity while maintaining structure
Methanol fixation may better expose some epitopes but can distort mitochondrial morphology
Cold methanol (-20°C) can improve mitochondrial protein detection
Test multiple fixation methods with the specific NDUFB3 antibody being used
Permeabilization optimization:
Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization requires sufficient detergent
Titrate detergent concentration (0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 or 0.01-0.1% saponin)
Longer permeabilization times may be needed for tissue sections versus cultured cells
Over-permeabilization can lead to epitope loss or mitochondrial disruption
Antibody penetration strategies:
Extended incubation times (overnight at 4°C) improve penetration into tissue sections
Consider fragment antibody formats for better tissue penetration
Use gentle agitation during incubation to enhance antibody accessibility
Step-wise increasing concentrations of glycerol can improve penetration in thick sections
Signal-to-noise optimization:
Autofluorescence: Pre-treat samples with sodium borohydride or Sudan Black B
Background: Use highly cross-adsorbed secondary antibodies
Photobleaching: Include anti-fade agents in mounting media
Signal amplification: Consider tyramide signal amplification for weak signals
Mitochondrial network preservation:
Optimize fixation timing to preserve physiological mitochondrial morphology
Maintain sample temperature to prevent artificial fragmentation
Consider live-cell imaging of mitochondria before fixation for correlation
Use gentle washing techniques to prevent mechanical disruption
Tissue-specific variation in NDUFB3 detection requires systematic troubleshooting:
Biological variation considerations:
Expression level differences: Heart tissue consistently shows strongest signals due to high mitochondrial content
Mitochondrial density varies across tissues (highest in heart, brain, kidney, liver)
Complex I assembly status may differ between tissues
Tissue-specific post-translational modifications may affect epitope recognition
Protocol customization by tissue type:
Adjust protein loading based on expected mitochondrial content:
Optimize antibody concentration for each tissue type:
Sample preparation adaptations:
Tissue-specific homogenization protocols may be required (e.g., brain tissue requires gentler homogenization)
Adipose-rich tissues may need additional lipid removal steps
Fibrous tissues may require extended lysis times or mechanical disruption
Consider mitochondrial enrichment for tissues with lower mitochondrial content
Quantification considerations:
Use tissue-specific positive controls for accurate comparison
Normalize to mitochondrial markers rather than total protein or cytosolic housekeeping genes
Consider relative quantification within tissue type rather than absolute comparison across tissues
Report results as percentage of control within the same tissue type to account for baseline differences
NDUFB3 antibodies serve several diagnostic purposes in mitochondrial disease investigation:
Diagnostic tissue analysis protocol:
Muscle biopsies are processed for both frozen sections and homogenate preparation
Western blot analysis reveals reduced NDUFB3 levels in primary defects or secondary reductions due to other Complex I deficiencies
Immunohistochemistry provides spatial information about NDUFB3 distribution
Blue Native PAGE with NDUFB3 immunodetection identifies assembly defects characterized by ~650 kDa intermediates in patients with NDUFB3 mutations
Diagnostic algorithm implementation:
Initial biochemical screening shows isolated Complex I deficiency
NDUFB3 antibodies combined with antibodies against other Complex I subunits (NDUFA9, NDUFB8) create a "signature profile" of the defect
This pattern guides targeted genetic testing, potentially avoiding extensive sequencing
The search results indicate that recognition of characteristic facial features prompted targeted testing for the p.Trp22Arg NDUFB3 variant, circumventing invasive procedures
Functional validation methodology:
Patient fibroblasts can be analyzed for NDUFB3 expression and Complex I assembly
This non-invasive approach complements muscle biopsy findings
Allows for functional validation of genetic variants of uncertain significance
Provides cellular material for experimental therapeutic testing
Prognostic marker assessment:
NDUFB3 mutations provide important insights into mitochondrial biology and disease pathogenesis:
Disease associations:
Isolated Complex I deficiency, the most common pediatric mitochondrial disease presentation
The recurrent c.64T>C, p.Trp22Arg NDUFB3 mutation has been specifically identified in multiple unrelated families
Initially associated with severe neurological presentations, but milder phenotypes are now recognized
Molecular consequences:
Mutations cause decreased steady-state levels of multiple Complex I subunits (NDUFB8 and NDUFA9)
Lead to reduced fully assembled Complex I with accumulation of ~650 kDa assembly intermediates
Specifically affect the hydrophobic membrane arm (subcomplex Iβ) of Complex I, of which NDUFB3 is an integral component
This demonstrates the structural interdependence of Complex I subunits
Genetic characteristics:
The c.64T>C mutation appears to have multiple independent origins rather than a single founder effect
Analysis of flanking STR markers identified seven distinct haplotypes associated with this mutation
One particularly prevalent haplotype supports a founder allele in some populations
This represents an interesting case of both a recurrent mutation and a founder effect
Research implications:
Provides a model system for studying Complex I assembly
Demonstrates how a mutation in an accessory (non-catalytic) subunit can significantly impact enzyme function
Illustrates the importance of structural components in multi-subunit complexes
Highlights the complex relationship between genotype and phenotype in mitochondrial disorders
The p.Trp22Arg NDUFB3 variant presents an intriguing model for studying factors influencing disease expression:
Genotype-phenotype dissociation:
Research methodology:
Quantify NDUFB3 and Complex I subunit levels across patient cohorts with identical mutations
Correlate protein expression with clinical severity measures
Perform whole genome or exome sequencing to identify potential genetic modifiers
Develop cellular models with controlled genetic backgrounds to isolate modifier effects
Tissue-specific threshold effects:
Different tissues may have varying thresholds for mitochondrial dysfunction
NDUFB3 immunohistochemistry across multiple tissues from the same patient can reveal selective vulnerability
This approach helps explain why some organs are affected while others are spared despite an identical genetic defect
Developmental compensation mechanisms:
Longitudinal studies with repeated sampling can reveal adaptive responses
Age-dependent alterations in NDUFB3 expression or Complex I assembly
Changes in mitochondrial network dynamics as compensatory mechanisms
This research direction may explain why some patients improve with age despite persistent genetic defects
Antibody-based methods are essential for evaluating therapeutic efficacy in NDUFB3-related disorders:
Protein replacement/stability therapy assessment:
Western blot quantification of NDUFB3 and other Complex I subunits before and after treatment
BN-PAGE analysis to determine if Complex I assembly is restored
Correlation with functional recovery of NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase activity
These approaches provide biochemical endpoints for clinical trials
Gene therapy evaluation methods:
Immunodetection of NDUFB3 following gene delivery to confirm expression
Localization studies to verify proper mitochondrial targeting
Assembly analysis to confirm integration into functional Complex I
Dose-response studies to determine minimal effective expression levels
Small molecule screening platforms:
High-throughput immunoassays to identify compounds that stabilize mutant NDUFB3
Automated imaging to quantify Complex I assembly rescue
Correlation of structural restoration with functional recovery
Mechanistic studies to determine if benefits are direct (NDUFB3 stabilization) or indirect (assembly factor modulation)
Therapeutic biomarker development:
Identify NDUFB3-related proteins or metabolites that could serve as accessible biomarkers
Develop sensitive immunoassays for blood or urine biomarkers
Correlate changes in these markers with clinical improvement
Establish monitoring protocols for long-term follow-up of treated patients