PACS1 Antibody

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Description

Definition and Biological Context

PACS1 antibody is a laboratory-generated immunoglobulin designed to specifically detect and bind to the phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 1 (PACS1), a multifunctional cytosolic protein critical for intracellular trafficking, apoptosis regulation, and chromatin dynamics . PACS1 facilitates protein sorting between the trans-Golgi network (TGN) and endosomal compartments, modulates mitochondrial apoptosis, and stabilizes histone deacetylases (HDACs) to maintain genomic integrity .

Research Applications

PACS1 antibodies are pivotal tools for studying:

  • Subcellular Localization: Tracking PACS1’s role in TGN/endosomal protein trafficking (e.g., furin, mannose-6-phosphate receptor) .

  • Apoptosis Regulation: Investigating PACS1’s control over BAX/BAK oligomerization and cytochrome c release in mitochondrial apoptosis .

  • Chromatin Dynamics: Analyzing interactions with HDAC2/HDAC3 to regulate histone acetylation and DNA replication .

  • Disease Mechanisms: Studying PACS1 mutations linked to intellectual disabilities (Schuurs-Hoeijmakers syndrome), viral pathogenesis (HIV-1), and cancer .

Key Research Findings

Study FocusKey InsightCitation
Apoptosis RegulationPACS1 knockdown reduces BAX/BAK oligomerization, blocking cytochrome c release and cell death .
Chromatin StabilityPACS1 stabilizes HDAC2/HDAC3, preventing replication stress-induced DNA damage .
Neurological DisordersPACS1 R203W mutation disrupts synaptic transmission; antisense oligonucleotides restore function .
Immune FunctionPacs1 deletion impairs ER Ca²⁺ flux, leading to lymphocyte apoptosis and lymphopenia .

Clinical and Therapeutic Relevance

  • PACS1 Syndrome: Dominant R203W mutations impair synaptic transmission but are partially reversible via HDAC6-targeting antisense oligonucleotides .

  • Cancer: PACS1 deficiency increases H3K9/H4K16 acetylation, replication stress, and genomic instability, suggesting roles in tumor suppression .

  • HIV-1 Pathogenesis: PACS1 mediates Nef-dependent MHC-I internalization, aiding immune evasion .

Future Directions

  • Therapeutic Development: RNA-targeted therapies (e.g., ASOs) to correct PACS1 mutation effects .

  • Mechanistic Studies: Elucidate PACS1’s role in calcium signaling and ER stress responses .

Product Specs

Buffer
Preservative: 0.03% Proclin 300
Constituents: 50% Glycerol, 0.01M PBS, pH 7.4
Form
Liquid
Lead Time
Typically, we can ship your orders within 1-3 business days of receiving them. Delivery timelines may vary depending on the purchase method and location. Please consult your local distributors for specific delivery timeframes.
Synonyms
Cytosolic sorting protein PACS1 antibody; PACS 1 antibody; PACS-1 antibody; Pacs1 antibody; PACS1_HUMAN antibody; Phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 1 antibody
Target Names
PACS1
Uniprot No.

Target Background

Function
PACS1 (Phosphofurin Acidic Cluster Sorting Protein 1) is a coat protein that plays a crucial role in the localization of trans-Golgi network (TGN) membrane proteins containing acidic cluster sorting motifs. It regulates the trafficking of furin and mannose-6-phosphate receptor from endosomes to the Golgi apparatus by linking the acidic-cluster-containing cytoplasmic domain of these molecules to the adapter-protein complex-1 (AP-1) of endosomal clathrin-coated membrane pits. PACS1 is also implicated in the HIV-1 nef-mediated removal of MHC-I from the cell surface to the TGN.
Gene References Into Functions
  1. Whole exome sequencing (WES) identified eight individuals with the same p.Arg203Trp missense variant in PACS1, which was demonstrated to be de novo in seven individuals with available parental DNA. PMID: 28111752
  2. PCAF and ADA3 transcriptionally regulate PACS1, and PACS1 is a key regulator of BAX/BAK oligomerization and the intrinsic (mitochondrial) pathway to apoptosis. PMID: 28060382
  3. A comprehensive review summarizes protein adaptation and the expanding roles of PACS1 and PACS2 proteins in tissue homeostasis and disease. PMID: 28476937
  4. A study revealed that the rs564343 polymorphism in the phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 1 (PACS1) gene was associated with an increased risk of severe obesity in Chinese children. PMID: 28564656
  5. A clinical description of the PACS1-related syndrome has been reported in 19 unrelated patients. PMID: 26842493
  6. PACS1 plays a significant role in protein sorting for amyloidogenic-burden control through both SORLA-dependent and SORLA-independent mechanisms. PMID: 24001769
  7. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the PAKS1 gene have been linked to obesity. PMID: 23563609
  8. Research indicates that PACS1 is essential for the formation of craniofacial structures, and disruption of its function results in a specific syndromic ID phenotype. PMID: 23159249
  9. The specific sites on Nef and PACS proteins required for their interaction have been identified. PMID: 22496420
  10. PACS-1, along with HIV-1 nef, contributes to the downregulation of cell surface MHC-I to the trans-Golgi network, utilizing the ARF6 endocytic pathway. PMID: 12526811
  11. The subcellular localization and function of polycystin-2 are directed by phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein (PACS)-1 and PACS-2. PMID: 15692563
  12. Casein kinase 2 (CK2) induces PACS-1 binding of nephrocystin and targeting to cilia. PMID: 16308564
  13. A CK2-activated phosphorylation cascade controlling PACS-1- and GGA3-mediated CI-MPR sorting has been reported. PMID: 16977309
  14. PACS-1 mediates phosphorylation-dependent ciliary trafficking of the CNGB1b in olfactory sensory neurons. PMID: 19710307

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Database Links

HGNC: 30032

OMIM: 607492

KEGG: hsa:55690

STRING: 9606.ENSP00000316454

UniGene: Hs.644326

Involvement In Disease
Schuurs-Hoeijmakers syndrome (SHMS)
Protein Families
PACS family
Subcellular Location
Golgi apparatus, trans-Golgi network.

Q&A

What is PACS1 and why is it important to study?

PACS1 (Phosphofurin Acidic Cluster Sorting Protein 1) belongs to the PACS family of cytosolic connector proteins that primarily function to localize different membrane proteins to the trans-Golgi network (TGN). This protein plays essential roles in cellular trafficking pathways that are fundamental to maintaining proper cellular function. Recent research has revealed that PACS1 has significant implications in developmental processes, as mutations in this protein cause defects in cranial-neural crest migration during early development, leading to recognizable intellectual disability syndromes . Additionally, PACS1 has been implicated in viral pathogenesis, particularly in HIV-1 infection where it works alongside PACS2 to mediate the Nef-induced downregulation of MHC-I molecules, helping the virus evade immune surveillance . The multifunctional nature of PACS1 extends to cell cycle progression and genomic stability, making it a critical target for researchers investigating various cellular processes and disease mechanisms .

What are the key characteristics of commercially available PACS1 antibodies?

Commercial PACS1 antibodies are predominantly available as polyclonal antibodies derived from rabbit hosts, though monoclonal options may also exist. These antibodies typically react with human, mouse, and rat PACS1 proteins, making them versatile for cross-species applications . The molecular weight detected is approximately 104-105 kDa, although the observed molecular weight on Western blots may appear around 68 kDa depending on the specific conditions and cell types . Most commercial antibodies are supplied in liquid form in PBS buffer containing sodium azide and sometimes glycerol for stability . The applications for these antibodies commonly include Western blotting (WB), immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded tissues (IHC-P), immunofluorescence (IF), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) . Storage recommendations generally suggest keeping the antibody at 4°C for short-term (three months) and at -20°C for long-term (up to one year) storage, with some products requiring aliquoting to maintain stability .

How does PACS1 protein structure influence antibody design and selection?

The structure of PACS1 protein directly influences antibody design through epitope selection strategies. PACS1 is a 963 amino acid protein with a calculated molecular weight of approximately 105 kDa . When designing antibodies against PACS1, researchers must consider the protein's functional domains and accessibility of epitopes. For example, the Boster Bio antibody (A06811-1) was raised against a 17 amino acid peptide located near the center of human PACS1, specifically within amino acids 430-480 . This region was likely selected because it represents an accessible and immunogenic portion of the protein that is conserved across species. The selection of this region is strategic as it avoids the highly conserved areas that might cross-react with the related protein PACS2, ensuring specificity . When selecting a PACS1 antibody, researchers should consider whether the epitope corresponds to functionally important domains that might be masked in certain experimental conditions or cellular contexts. Additionally, multiple isoforms of PACS1 are known to exist, which may impact antibody recognition depending on the epitope location . Understanding these structural considerations enables researchers to select antibodies that will effectively recognize their target in specific experimental applications.

What validation techniques ensure PACS1 antibody specificity and reliability?

Robust validation of PACS1 antibodies employs multiple complementary techniques to ensure both specificity and reliability for research applications. Western blot analysis forms a cornerstone of validation, where the antibody should detect bands at the expected molecular weight of approximately 105 kDa (calculated) or 68 kDa (observed) . Cross-reactivity testing against related proteins, particularly PACS2, is essential to confirm specificity, as both belong to the same protein family but serve distinct cellular functions . Immunohistochemistry in multiple tissue types, including brain and bladder tissues, provides validation of tissue expression patterns and helps establish antibody performance in fixed samples . Immunofluorescence testing in various cell lines offers insights into subcellular localization patterns, which should match known distribution patterns of PACS1 . Advanced validation may include siRNA knockdown experiments, where the antibody signal should decrease proportionally to the reduction in PACS1 expression . The Human Protein Atlas employs enhanced validation methods including GFP-tagged protein localization correlation and testing with independent antibodies targeting different epitopes of the same protein . A comprehensive validation approach should include testing across multiple species if cross-reactivity is claimed, and verification across different experimental conditions to ensure consistent performance. Only antibodies that pass this multi-parameter validation should be considered reliable for detecting PACS1 in critical research applications.

How can researchers interpret PACS1 antibody validation data from commercial sources?

Interpreting validation data for PACS1 antibodies requires a systematic approach to evaluate the quality and reliability of the commercial product. First, researchers should examine the validation images provided by the manufacturer, focusing on the clarity of specific bands in Western blot applications and the signal-to-noise ratio in immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence images . The observed molecular weight should be consistent with the expected size of PACS1 (calculated at approximately 105 kDa), though variations may occur due to post-translational modifications or different isoforms . Validation scores provided by resources like The Human Protein Atlas offer standardized assessments, with designations such as "Enhanced," "Supported," "Approved," or "Uncertain" reflecting the level of confidence in the antibody's performance . Enhanced validation using orthogonal methods such as siRNA knockdown provides particularly strong evidence for specificity, as it demonstrates that the signal decreases when the target protein is downregulated . Researchers should also assess whether the antibody has been tested in the specific application and cell/tissue type relevant to their research. The reactivity claims across species (human, mouse, rat) should be supported by actual validation images for each species . Additionally, examining the immunogen information helps determine if the antibody targets a conserved region across species or isoforms . When multiple antibodies from different vendors show concordant results, this increases confidence in their specificity. Finally, publications citing the use of the antibody can provide independent verification of its performance in real-world research settings.

What control experiments are essential when working with PACS1 antibodies?

Implementing rigorous control experiments is crucial for accurate interpretation of results when working with PACS1 antibodies. Primary negative controls should include omission of the primary antibody while maintaining all other reagents, which helps identify non-specific binding from secondary antibodies or detection systems . Isotype controls using non-specific IgG from the same host species (rabbit for most commercial PACS1 antibodies) at equivalent concentrations help distinguish between specific binding and Fc receptor-mediated background . Positive controls using tissues or cell lines with confirmed PACS1 expression (such as brain tissue or bladder tissue) establish that the detection system is functioning properly . The inclusion of a blocking peptide control, where the antibody is pre-incubated with the immunogen peptide, should abolish specific signals if the antibody is truly binding to its intended target . For more advanced validation, knockdown/knockout controls using siRNA or CRISPR-Cas9 to reduce or eliminate PACS1 expression provide compelling evidence of antibody specificity . When evaluating subcellular localization, co-localization with known organelle markers for the trans-Golgi network, where PACS1 predominantly functions, adds another layer of confirmation . For Western blotting applications, loading controls and molecular weight markers are essential to properly interpret band specificity. When performing functional studies, rescue experiments reinstating PACS1 expression should restore the detected signal. These comprehensive controls collectively ensure that any observations attributed to PACS1 detection are specific and reliable, especially important given PACS1's roles in multiple cellular processes including membrane trafficking and DNA replication .

What are the optimal conditions for Western blot analysis using PACS1 antibodies?

Western blot analysis of PACS1 requires specific optimization to ensure accurate detection of this 105 kDa protein. Sample preparation should include complete cell lysis using buffers containing protease inhibitors to prevent degradation of PACS1, which is particularly important given its susceptibility to proteolytic processing . The recommended protein loading amount ranges from 20-50 μg of total protein per lane, with tissue lysates often requiring the higher end of this range . For gel electrophoresis, 8-10% SDS-PAGE gels provide optimal separation for detecting the calculated 105 kDa PACS1 protein, though it's important to note that the observed molecular weight may appear around 68 kDa in some experimental systems . During transfer, using PVDF membranes is preferred over nitrocellulose due to their higher protein binding capacity and durability for potential membrane stripping and reprobing . For blocking, 5% non-fat dry milk in TBST for 1-2 hours at room temperature generally provides adequate blocking while maintaining specific antibody binding . The optimal primary antibody dilution for commercial PACS1 antibodies typically ranges from 1:500 to 1:2000, with the Boster Bio antibody specifically recommended at 1-2 μg/ml . Incubation with primary antibody should be performed overnight at 4°C to maximize specific binding while minimizing background . After washing with TBST (at least 3 washes of 5 minutes each), an HRP-conjugated anti-rabbit secondary antibody at 1:2000-1:5000 dilution is appropriate for most PACS1 detection systems . For signal development, enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) detection systems provide sufficient sensitivity, though more sensitive methods may be required for detecting low expression levels of PACS1. Exposure times typically range from 30 seconds to 5 minutes depending on expression levels and detection method sensitivity.

How should researchers optimize immunohistochemistry protocols for PACS1 detection?

Optimizing immunohistochemistry (IHC) protocols for PACS1 detection requires careful attention to several critical parameters. Tissue fixation should utilize 10% neutral-buffered formalin for 24-48 hours, as overfixation can mask the PACS1 epitope while underfixation may compromise tissue morphology . Antigen retrieval is essential for PACS1 detection in paraffin-embedded tissues, with heat-induced epitope retrieval (HIER) using citrate buffer (pH 6.0) at 95-100°C for 15-20 minutes showing the best results for exposing the PACS1 epitope . Endogenous peroxidase blocking with 3% hydrogen peroxide for 10 minutes prevents false-positive signals, particularly important in tissues with high peroxidase activity . For PACS1 immunohistochemistry, a protein blocking step using 5-10% normal serum from the same species as the secondary antibody (typically goat) for 30-60 minutes minimizes non-specific binding . The optimal primary antibody concentration for PACS1 detection starts at 2 μg/mL, though this may require titration depending on the specific tissue type and fixation conditions . Primary antibody incubation should be performed overnight at 4°C to maximize specific binding while minimizing background . A polymer-based detection system rather than the avidin-biotin complex method is preferred for PACS1 detection as it offers improved sensitivity with reduced background . DAB (3,3'-diaminobenzidine) development should be carefully timed and monitored microscopically to prevent overdevelopment, typically requiring 1-5 minutes depending on expression levels . Counterstaining with hematoxylin for 30-60 seconds provides optimal nuclear contrast without obscuring the PACS1 signal . For validation, mouse brain tissue serves as an excellent positive control as it demonstrates consistent PACS1 expression patterns . When analyzing results, researchers should note that PACS1 typically shows cytoplasmic and perinuclear staining patterns, reflecting its role in trans-Golgi network trafficking .

What considerations are important for immunofluorescence staining of PACS1 in different cell types?

Immunofluorescence staining for PACS1 requires specific considerations that vary across cell types to achieve optimal visualization of this trafficking protein. Cell fixation methods significantly impact PACS1 epitope accessibility, with 4% paraformaldehyde for 15-20 minutes at room temperature generally preserving both cellular morphology and antigenicity . For cells with high PACS1 expression in membrane compartments, a brief (2-5 minute) permeabilization with 0.1-0.2% Triton X-100 is sufficient, while longer permeabilization may be required for nuclear PACS1 detection, particularly in cells under replication stress conditions where nuclear PACS1 increases . Blocking solutions containing 5% normal serum with 1% BSA in PBS for 60 minutes reduce non-specific binding across cell types . The primary antibody concentration for PACS1 detection in immunofluorescence typically starts at 20 μg/mL, which is notably higher than concentrations used for Western blot or IHC applications . This higher concentration compensates for the potentially lower accessibility of epitopes in fixed cells. Primary antibody incubation should be performed overnight at 4°C for optimal signal-to-noise ratio . The selection of fluorophore-conjugated secondary antibodies should consider the cell type's autofluorescence spectrum; Alexa Fluor 488 (green) works well for most cell types, while Alexa Fluor 594 (red) may be preferred for cells with high green autofluorescence . When studying PACS1's subcellular localization, co-staining with organelle markers is essential: trans-Golgi network markers (such as TGN46) highlight PACS1's canonical localization, while nuclear markers (DAPI) help visualize stress-induced nuclear translocation . For cancer cell lines (HeLa, H1299, HCT116) with altered trafficking pathways, detection parameters may need adjustment compared to normal cell lines (HaCaT, BJ fibroblasts) . In cells undergoing replication stress induced by hydroxyurea or camptothecin treatment, researchers should expect increased nuclear PACS1 staining compared to untreated cells . When analyzing PACS1 knockdown cells, expect significantly reduced signal intensity, which serves as an important validation control .

What is the relationship between PACS1 and histone deacetylases, and how can antibodies help study this interaction?

The relationship between PACS1 and histone deacetylases (HDACs) represents a critical intersection of membrane trafficking and epigenetic regulation that can be effectively studied using specific antibody-based approaches. PACS1 knockdown consistently results in reduced levels of HDAC2 and HDAC3, but not HDAC1, across multiple cell lines including HeLa, H1299, HaCaT, BJ fibroblasts, and several cancer cell lines (HCT116, HT-29, MCF-7) . This selective effect suggests a specific regulatory relationship rather than a general impact on HDAC expression. iPOND (isolation of proteins on nascent DNA) experiments combined with western blotting have demonstrated decreased levels of HDAC2 in nascent chromatin fractions and reduced HDAC3 in both replisome and chromatin fractions following PACS1 knockdown . To study this relationship, researchers should employ a multi-antibody approach using validated antibodies against PACS1, HDAC2, and HDAC3, combined with subcellular fractionation techniques to isolate nuclear, chromatin, and replisome components . Co-immunoprecipitation assays can determine whether PACS1 directly interacts with these HDACs or regulates them indirectly. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) using PACS1 antibodies can identify genomic regions where PACS1 may influence HDAC recruitment. The functional consequences of this relationship can be explored by examining histone acetylation states in PACS1-depleted cells, focusing on HDAC2/HDAC3 substrates such as acetylated H3K9/14/18/27 and H4K5/8/12/16 . For mechanistic studies, researchers should combine PACS1 antibody detection with pulse-chase experiments using EdU labeling followed by iPOND to track the temporal dynamics of PACS1, HDAC2, and HDAC3 during DNA replication . Proximity ligation assays (PLA) using antibodies against PACS1 and HDACs can visualize their potential interactions in situ with subcellular resolution. When designing these experiments, it's critical to use well-validated antibodies for all proteins involved, as the subtle changes in protein levels and localizations require high specificity and sensitivity for accurate detection.

How can researchers troubleshoot common issues with PACS1 antibody applications?

Troubleshooting PACS1 antibody applications requires systematic investigation of several key parameters to overcome common challenges. For weak or absent Western blot signals, researchers should first verify PACS1 extraction efficiency, as this protein may require specialized lysis buffers due to its association with membrane compartments and potential nuclear localization under certain conditions . Increasing sample concentration (50-75 μg total protein) and extending primary antibody incubation to overnight at 4°C can enhance detection sensitivity . If background is excessive, optimize blocking conditions by testing alternative blocking agents such as 5% BSA instead of milk, and increase washing duration and frequency (4-5 washes of 10 minutes each) . For inconsistent molecular weight detection, researchers should note that while the calculated molecular weight of PACS1 is approximately 105 kDa, the observed molecular weight may be around 68 kDa in some systems, possibly due to post-translational modifications or proteolytic processing . In immunohistochemistry applications with weak signal, antigen retrieval conditions should be optimized by testing multiple methods (citrate buffer pH 6.0 vs. EDTA buffer pH 9.0) and extending retrieval time (20-30 minutes) . For high background in IHC, increasing the antibody dilution (starting at 1:500) and incorporating additional blocking steps with avidin/biotin blocking kit for biotin-based detection systems can improve signal-to-noise ratio . In immunofluorescence applications with poor subcellular resolution, using confocal microscopy rather than standard fluorescence microscopy will provide better visualization of PACS1's distribution patterns, particularly its association with the trans-Golgi network . When studying stressed cells, researchers should be aware that PACS1 localization changes dramatically, with increased nuclear localization under replication stress conditions induced by hydroxyurea or camptothecin treatment . For cell type-specific issues, optimization may be required as PACS1 expression and localization patterns can vary between normal cells and cancer cells . If cross-reactivity is suspected, performing parallel experiments with siRNA knockdown of PACS1 provides a definitive control to validate antibody specificity . When studying PACS1's relationship with HDACs, combining PACS1 detection with specific markers for HDACs and chromatin will provide contextual information about their interactions .

What techniques can be used to study PACS1's role in membrane trafficking?

Investigating PACS1's role in membrane trafficking requires specialized techniques that leverage antibody-based detection methods. Live-cell imaging combined with immunofluorescence using anti-PACS1 antibodies (typically at 20 μg/mL concentration) enables visualization of PACS1's dynamic association with membrane compartments, particularly the trans-Golgi network . Co-immunoprecipitation assays using PACS1 antibodies can identify interaction partners involved in trafficking pathways, revealing the protein complexes that PACS1 forms during vesicle transport . Subcellular fractionation followed by Western blot analysis using PACS1 antibodies at 1-2 μg/mL allows quantitative assessment of PACS1 distribution across different cellular compartments, providing insights into how this distribution changes under various conditions . Pulse-chase cargo trafficking assays, where a labeled cargo molecule is tracked through the secretory pathway in the presence or absence of PACS1 (manipulated through siRNA knockdown), can reveal specific steps where PACS1 functions . Proximity labeling techniques such as BioID or APEX2 fused to PACS1, followed by detection with anti-PACS1 antibodies, can identify proteins in close proximity to PACS1 at specific subcellular locations, expanding our understanding of its trafficking interactions . For high-resolution analysis, super-resolution microscopy (STORM, PALM, or SIM) combined with immunofluorescence using PACS1 antibodies provides nanoscale visualization of PACS1's association with trafficking vesicles and target membranes . In studies of pathological conditions, such as HIV-1 infection, PACS1 antibodies can be used to investigate how viral proteins like Nef interact with PACS1 to downregulate MHC-I molecules from the cell surface to the TGN, enabling immune evasion . For quantitative analysis, flow cytometry using permeabilized cells stained with PACS1 antibodies allows measurement of PACS1 levels across large cell populations and can be combined with surface marker staining to correlate PACS1 levels with trafficking outcomes . These multifaceted approaches provide complementary data that collectively illuminate PACS1's roles in maintaining proper membrane trafficking pathways within the cell.

How are PACS1 antibodies used to investigate neurodevelopmental disorders?

PACS1 antibodies serve as essential tools for investigating neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those linked to PACS1 mutations that cause defects in cranial-neural crest migration during early development. Immunohistochemistry using anti-PACS1 antibodies at 2 μg/mL concentration on brain tissue sections enables the visualization of PACS1 expression patterns in different neuronal and glial cell populations, establishing baseline distribution in normal brain development . Brain tissue from mouse models with PACS1 mutations can be analyzed using these same techniques to identify alterations in protein expression or subcellular localization that might contribute to neurodevelopmental phenotypes . Double immunofluorescence staining combining PACS1 antibodies (20 μg/mL) with markers for neural crest derivatives helps map the migratory pathways affected by PACS1 dysfunction . Western blot analysis of brain lysates using PACS1 antibodies at 1-2 μg/mL concentration allows quantitative comparison of PACS1 protein levels between normal and pathological samples, potentially revealing expression changes associated with disease states . In patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) differentiated into neural lineages, PACS1 antibodies can track protein expression during differentiation, illuminating potential defects in the temporal regulation of PACS1 in neurodevelopmental disorders . Proximity ligation assays using PACS1 antibodies together with antibodies against known neurodevelopmental proteins can identify altered protein interactions in disease models. For functional studies, immunoprecipitation of PACS1 followed by mass spectrometry analysis can identify brain-specific interaction partners that might be relevant to neurodevelopmental processes . In studies of PACS1's nuclear roles, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) using PACS1 antibodies can identify genomic regions where PACS1 might influence gene expression programs critical for neural development . These approaches collectively provide insights into how PACS1 mutations disrupt normal brain development, potentially leading to intellectual disability syndromes and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

What is the significance of PACS1 in cancer research and how can antibodies contribute to this field?

PACS1's emerging roles in DNA replication, genomic stability, and histone deacetylase regulation highlight its significance in cancer research, with antibodies serving as critical tools for investigating these functions. Immunohistochemical analysis of tumor tissue microarrays using PACS1 antibodies at 2 μg/mL can establish correlation between PACS1 expression levels and clinical outcomes, potentially identifying PACS1 as a prognostic marker . Western blot analysis comparing PACS1 expression across normal and cancer cell lines (such as HeLa, H1299, HCT116, HT-29, and MCF-7) has revealed consistent patterns of PACS1 expression, suggesting potential roles in maintaining cancer cell phenotypes . DNA fiber assays combined with PACS1 antibody detection have demonstrated that PACS1 knockdown reduces replication fork velocity from 1.04 kb/minute to 0.77 kb/minute and increases stalled or terminated replication forks, indicating that PACS1 contributes to genomic stability—a critical factor in cancer development . Chromatin immunoprecipitation using PACS1 antibodies followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) can map PACS1's genome-wide binding sites, potentially revealing cancer-specific binding patterns that influence gene expression . The discovery that PACS1 regulates HDAC2 and HDAC3 levels suggests it may influence epigenetic landscapes in cancer cells, which can be investigated using PACS1 antibodies in combination with antibodies against histone modifications . Isolation of proteins on nascent DNA (iPOND) experiments using PACS1 antibodies have shown that PACS1 associates with replisomes and nascent chromatin, suggesting direct involvement in DNA replication processes that are often dysregulated in cancer . Co-immunoprecipitation studies using PACS1 antibodies can identify cancer-specific interaction partners that might contribute to altered cellular functions. PACS1's rapid nuclear accumulation in response to replication stress induced by chemotherapeutic agents such as hydroxyurea (HU) and camptothecin (CPT) suggests potential roles in drug responses that can be monitored using subcellular fractionation and PACS1 antibody detection . These applications collectively position PACS1 antibodies as valuable tools for cancer research, potentially leading to new insights into cancer biology and therapeutic approaches.

How can researchers quantitatively analyze PACS1 immunostaining data?

Quantitative analysis of PACS1 immunostaining requires sophisticated image analysis approaches to extract meaningful data from complex cellular staining patterns. For immunohistochemistry quantification, whole slide digital scanning followed by automated analysis using software like ImageJ, QuPath, or Definiens provides objective scoring of staining intensity, typically categorized as negative (0), weak (1+), moderate (2+), or strong (3+) . The H-score method, calculating the sum of the percentage of cells with different staining intensities (1 × % cells 1+ + 2 × % cells 2+ + 3 × % cells 3+), yields values from 0-300 that can be correlated with clinical parameters in tissue microarray studies . For immunofluorescence analysis, confocal microscopy z-stacks should be acquired to capture the full three-dimensional distribution of PACS1, particularly important given its localization to specific subcellular compartments . Colocalization analysis with organelle markers such as TGN46 (trans-Golgi network) or nuclear markers (DAPI) can be quantified using Pearson's or Mander's coefficients, with values above 0.7 generally indicating strong colocalization . For nuclear translocation studies, nuclear/cytoplasmic intensity ratios provide a quantitative measure of PACS1 redistribution under conditions like replication stress induced by hydroxyurea or camptothecin . When analyzing PACS1 at replication sites, specialized techniques like proximity ligation assays or iPOND (isolation of proteins on nascent DNA) require quantification of puncta number per nucleus or band intensity normalization to input controls, respectively . For high-throughput analysis, automated image analysis pipelines using CellProfiler or similar platforms can extract multiple parameters (intensity, texture, area, shape) from thousands of cells, enabling detection of subtle phenotypes and subpopulation analysis . Statistical analysis should include appropriate tests based on data distribution (parametric or non-parametric) and sample size, with multiple comparison corrections when analyzing across different conditions or cell types . When presenting quantitative immunostaining data, box plots or violin plots are preferred over simple bar graphs as they display the full data distribution rather than just means and standard errors, providing more complete information about biological variability . These quantitative approaches transform qualitative immunostaining observations into robust, reproducible data suitable for publication and comparative analysis across experimental conditions.

How does subcellular fractionation affect PACS1 antibody detection and data interpretation?

Subcellular fractionation significantly impacts PACS1 antibody detection and requires careful consideration for accurate data interpretation. The choice of fractionation protocol directly affects PACS1 recovery, with HEPES-based buffers containing low concentrations of non-ionic detergents (0.1% NP-40 or Triton X-100) generally effective for isolating cytoplasmic PACS1, while nuclear extraction requires more stringent conditions including higher salt concentrations (>300 mM NaCl) to release chromatin-associated PACS1 . Western blot analysis of fractionated samples should use validated compartment-specific markers such as GAPDH (cytoplasmic), Lamin B1 (nuclear membrane), and Histone H3 (chromatin) to confirm fractionation quality and normalize PACS1 signals appropriately . The detection sensitivity for PACS1 varies across cellular compartments, with cytoplasmic PACS1 typically requiring antibody concentrations of 1-2 μg/mL, while nuclear or chromatin-associated PACS1 may require 2-5 μg/mL for optimal detection . When analyzing stress responses, nuclear PACS1 levels rapidly increase upon treatment with replication stress-inducing agents such as 10 μM hydroxyurea (overnight) or 500 nM camptothecin (2 hours), requiring adjustment of antibody dilutions to prevent signal saturation . For specialized chromatin fractionation techniques like iPOND (isolation of proteins on nascent DNA), PACS1 antibody detection reveals that PACS1 is present in both replisome and nascent chromatin fractions, with similar levels in EdU pulldown and thymidine chase samples, suggesting enrichment in chromatin compared to replisomes . Quantitative comparisons across fractions should account for loading differences, as nuclear fractions typically represent a smaller portion of total cellular protein than cytoplasmic fractions, potentially requiring adjustment of loading volumes . When comparing PACS1 distribution in normal versus diseased states, the relative distribution across fractions rather than absolute amounts often provides more meaningful insights into pathological changes . Researchers should be aware that some commercial lysis buffers may inadequately extract membrane-associated or chromatin-bound PACS1, leading to underestimation of total PACS1 levels . For comprehensive analysis of PACS1's dual roles in membrane trafficking and nuclear functions, sequential extraction protocols that separately isolate cytoplasmic, membrane, nuclear soluble, and chromatin-bound fractions provide the most complete picture of PACS1 distribution .

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