PDCD10, also named CCM3 and TFAR15, belongs to the PDCD10 family. Despite its name suggesting a role in programmed cell death, recent evidence reveals it is actually an adaptor protein with multifaceted functions:
Promotes cell proliferation and increases MAPK activity
Modulates apoptotic pathways
Plays important roles in cell migration
Regulates normal structure and assembly of the Golgi complex
Required for normal angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, and hematopoiesis during embryonic development
Interacts with multiple molecules including serine/threonine kinases and phosphatases
Mutations in PDCD10 are one cause of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs), which are vascular malformations that cause seizures and cerebral hemorrhages .
PDCD10 antibodies are available in both polyclonal and monoclonal formats with the following specifications:
Polyclonal Antibodies:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Tested Reactivity | Human, mouse, rat |
| Host/Isotype | Rabbit/IgG |
| Immunogen | CCM3/PDCD10 fusion protein |
| Calculated Molecular Weight | 25 kDa |
| Observed Molecular Weight | 25-30 kDa |
| Purification Method | Antigen affinity purification |
| Storage Conditions | -20°C in PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol pH 7.3 |
Monoclonal Antibodies:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Tested Reactivity | Human |
| Host/Isotype | Mouse/IgG1 |
| Purification Method | Protein G purification |
| Storage Conditions | -20°C in PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol pH 7.3 |
Antibodies have been validated in various cell lines including MCF-7, PC-3, Raji, Jurkat, Ramos, and U-251 cells .
PDCD10 antibodies have been validated for multiple experimental applications:
| Application | Validated Use | Recommended Dilution |
|---|---|---|
| Western Blot (WB) | Detection of endogenous PDCD10 | 1:500-1:6000 |
| Immunohistochemistry (IHC) | Detection in tissue samples | 1:50-1:500 |
| Immunoprecipitation (IP) | Protein complex isolation | 0.5-4.0 μg for 1.0-3.0 mg of total protein lysate |
| Immunofluorescence (IF) | Cellular localization | Validated in multiple studies |
| ELISA | Quantitative detection | Application-specific |
The recommended antigen retrieval for IHC is with TE buffer pH 9.0, with citrate buffer pH 6.0 as an alternative .
For proper validation of PDCD10 antibodies, the following positive controls have been experimentally verified:
Western blot: MCF-7, PC-3, and Raji cells for polyclonal antibodies; Jurkat, Ramos, and U-251 cells for monoclonal antibodies
Immunoprecipitation: MCF-7 cells are confirmed to yield positive results
Immunohistochemistry: Human colon cancer tissue and human liver cancer tissue
Gene knockdown/knockout controls: Several publications have demonstrated specificity using PDCD10 knockdown/knockout samples
It is recommended to titrate antibodies in each testing system to obtain optimal results, as sensitivity may be sample-dependent .
PDCD10 has been shown to play diverse and sometimes opposing roles across different cancer types, requiring tailored experimental approaches:
For pituitary adenomas:
Research has demonstrated that PDCD10 promotes cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through the CXCR2-AKT/ERK signaling axis. When studying this cancer type:
Use IHC to evaluate PDCD10 expression differences between non-invasive and invasive tumor samples
Implement both mRNA (RT-PCR) and protein (WB) detection methods for comprehensive expression analysis
Consider examining epithelial (E-cadherin) and mesenchymal markers (N-cadherin, VIM) simultaneously, as PDCD10 influences EMT
Include scratch assays and transwell invasion assays to assess functional consequences of PDCD10 manipulation
Monitor phosphorylation status of AKT and ERK1/2 downstream of PDCD10
For osteosarcoma:
PDCD10 is highly expressed in osteosarcoma and promotes tumor progression by inhibiting apoptosis and activating the EMT pathway:
Examine both clinical samples and cell lines (U2OS and MG63 have been validated)
Use shRNA for knockdown studies and cDNA overexpression for gain-of-function experiments
Include in vivo xenograft models to confirm in vitro findings
Analyze apoptotic markers in conjunction with PDCD10 expression
The dual roles of PDCD10 necessitate careful experimental design with appropriate positive and negative controls for each cancer context .
PDCD10 functions as an adaptor protein that interacts with multiple binding partners. To effectively study these interactions:
Immunoprecipitation (IP):
Use 0.5-4.0 μg of PDCD10 antibody for 1.0-3.0 mg of total protein lysate
MCF-7 cells have been validated for successful PDCD10 IP
Consider crosslinking to stabilize transient interactions
Follow with western blot analysis to confirm specific binding partners
Co-immunoprecipitation for known interactions:
PDCD10 has been demonstrated to interact with:
Protein Phosphatase 2A (PP2A) complex, including both catalytic and scaffolding subunits
Serine/threonine kinases (STK24/25)
CXCR2 in pituitary adenomas
When investigating these interactions, use appropriate lysis buffers (RIPA buffer with protease and phosphatase inhibitors has been validated) and include negative controls such as IgG .
Mass spectrometry approaches:
For unbiased identification of novel interaction partners, consider using immunoprecipitation followed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, which has successfully identified PDCD10-interacting proteins in previous studies .
PDCD10 participates in multiple signaling cascades, requiring careful experimental design:
For studying CXCR2-AKT/ERK signaling axis:
Use RNA interference (siRNA or shRNA) for PDCD10 knockdown
Confirm knockdown efficiency at both mRNA (qRT-PCR) and protein (western blot) levels
Examine the phosphorylation status of downstream effectors (AKT, ERK1/2) by western blotting
Include pathway activators (e.g., CXCL2) to confirm specificity of PDCD10's effects
Consider rescue experiments with PDCD10 overexpression to validate findings
For investigating the role in PP2A signaling:
Use co-immunoprecipitation to confirm PDCD10-PP2A association
Examine the effect of PDCD10 knockdown on PP2A activity using phosphatase assays
Include inhibitors of related pathways (Jak3, Notch, NFκB) to determine specificity
Monitor the effect of IL-2 on PDCD10 expression and PP2A activity, as IL-2 has been shown to modulate this interaction
When studying PDCD10's dual roles, it's essential to include appropriate pathway inhibitors and activators to delineate the specific molecular mechanisms in your cellular context.
Validating antibody specificity using genetic approaches is critical for ensuring result reliability:
siRNA knockdown validation:
Transfect cells with PDCD10-specific siRNA and non-targeting control siRNA
Confirm knockdown efficiency after 48 hours using qRT-PCR
Use western blotting with the PDCD10 antibody to confirm protein reduction
Include unrelated proteins (e.g., STAT3, actin) as specificity controls
shRNA stable knockdown validation:
Generate stable PDCD10 knockdown cell lines using lentiviral shRNA vectors
Include scramble shRNA controls
Validate knockdown at both mRNA and protein levels
Use puromycin selection (1 mg/ml for approximately 3 weeks) to establish stable cell lines
Test multiple shRNA constructs to identify the most effective one and rule out off-target effects
CRISPR/Cas9 knockout validation:
For complete elimination of PDCD10 expression
Confirm knockout using genomic PCR, sequencing, and western blotting
Include wild-type and heterozygous controls
Note that complete PDCD10 knockout may be embryonically lethal in some models, necessitating conditional knockout approaches
In all validation studies, the absence of PDCD10 band on western blot when using the antibody in knockout/knockdown samples provides strong evidence for antibody specificity.
Optimal detection of PDCD10 in tissue samples requires specific fixation and antigen retrieval protocols:
Fixation:
Standard 10% neutral buffered formalin is suitable for most tissue types
Fixation time should be optimized based on tissue thickness (typically 24-48 hours)
Over-fixation may mask the PDCD10 epitope and require more aggressive antigen retrieval
Antigen Retrieval Methods:
Primary recommended method:
TE buffer at pH 9.0
Heat-induced epitope retrieval (pressure cooker or microwave)
20 minutes at 95-100°C
Alternative method:
Dilution Optimization:
Starting dilution range: 1:50-1:500
Titrate the antibody concentration for each tissue type
Include positive controls (human colon cancer tissue has been validated)
Include negative controls (antibody diluent without primary antibody)
For dual immunofluorescence studies examining PDCD10 alongside other markers, additional optimization may be required to ensure compatibility of fixation and retrieval methods for all target proteins.
For reliable quantification of PDCD10 in patient samples:
RNA Expression Analysis:
Use qRT-PCR with validated primers for PDCD10
Normalize to appropriate housekeeping genes (multiple reference genes recommended)
Consider analyzing datasets such as GSE26966 from the GEO database for comparison with normal counterparts
Compare expression levels between invasive and non-invasive tumor samples
Protein Expression Analysis:
Western blotting with densitometric quantification
Use appropriate loading controls (e.g., actin)
Consider multiplexed protein analysis for simultaneous detection of PDCD10 and related pathway proteins
Immunohistochemical Scoring:
Use standardized scoring methods (e.g., H-score, Allred score)
Evaluate both staining intensity and percentage of positive cells
Consider digital image analysis for objective quantification
Correlate expression with clinical parameters and survival data
For prognostic studies, it's important to note that PDCD10 expression has been correlated with patient outcomes in certain cancers, such as osteosarcoma, where high expression is associated with poorer prognosis .
Researchers commonly encounter several challenges when working with PDCD10 antibodies:
High Background:
Increase blocking time (2 hours at room temperature or overnight at 4°C)
Use 5% BSA instead of milk for blocking in phospho-specific applications
Increase washing steps duration and number (5-6 washes of 5-10 minutes each)
Optimize antibody dilution (start with manufacturer's recommendation and adjust as needed)
Pre-absorb antibody with blocking protein if non-specific binding persists
Weak or No Signal:
Ensure proper antigen retrieval for IHC (TE buffer pH 9.0 is recommended)
Increase antibody concentration or incubation time
Use signal enhancement systems (HRP polymers, tyramide signal amplification)
Check protein extraction protocol (PDCD10 is observed at 25-30 kDa)
Verify sample preparation (fresh frozen samples may yield better results than FFPE for certain applications)
Multiple Bands in Western Blot:
Optimize reducing conditions in sample buffer
Use freshly prepared samples to minimize degradation
Include protease inhibitors during sample preparation
Consider alternative antibody clones if specific issues persist
To preserve antibody functionality and specificity:
Storage Conditions:
Store at -20°C as recommended by manufacturers
Antibodies are typically supplied in PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol (pH 7.3)
Stable for one year after shipment under proper storage conditions
Aliquoting is generally unnecessary for -20°C storage according to manufacturer recommendations
Note that some formats (20μl sizes) contain 0.1% BSA
Handling Practices:
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Allow antibody to reach room temperature before opening the vial
Centrifuge briefly before opening to collect solution at the bottom
Use sterile technique when handling antibody solutions
Return to -20°C promptly after use
Working Solution Preparation:
Prepare fresh working dilutions on the day of experiment
Dilute in appropriate buffer with 1% BSA or carrier protein
If working solution must be stored, keep at 4°C for no more than 5-7 days
For robust experimental design when manipulating PDCD10 expression:
For Knockdown Studies:
Non-targeting siRNA/shRNA control with identical transfection/transduction conditions
Multiple siRNA/shRNA constructs targeting different regions of PDCD10 to confirm specificity
Validation of knockdown at both mRNA (qRT-PCR) and protein (western blot) levels
Rescue experiments with expression of siRNA/shRNA-resistant PDCD10 construct
Unrelated protein controls (e.g., STAT3, actin) to confirm specificity of effects
For Overexpression Studies:
Empty vector control (e.g., pcDNA3.1)
Tagged (e.g., Flag-tagged) and untagged versions to ensure tag doesn't interfere with function
Expression level monitoring to avoid non-physiological overexpression artifacts
Functional validation through known PDCD10 activities (e.g., effects on AKT/ERK phosphorylation)
For Both Approaches:
Include wild-type untreated cells as baseline controls
Perform time-course experiments to capture both immediate and delayed effects
Include related pathway controls (e.g., examining PDCD10's effect on CXCR2 expression)
Consider combinatorial approaches (knockdown + stimulation with pathway activators)
PDCD10 exhibits context-dependent functions that require careful experimental design:
Cellular Context Considerations:
Use multiple cell lines representing different tissue types
Include both cancer and normal cell counterparts when possible
Consider primary cell cultures alongside established cell lines
Test effects in both 2D and 3D culture systems
Molecular Pathway Analysis:
Employ phospho-specific antibodies to monitor activation status of key signaling molecules (AKT, ERK, STAT3)
Use inhibitors of specific pathways to determine which are essential for PDCD10's effects
Consider inducible expression systems to study time-dependent effects
Perform gene expression profiling to identify context-specific downstream targets
Functional Readouts:
Include multiple functional assays (proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis)
Measure effects on EMT markers as PDCD10 regulates this process in multiple cancer types
Consider in vivo models to validate in vitro findings
Analyze transcriptional changes using RNA-seq or targeted gene expression analysis
When studying cell death/apoptosis, use multiple complementary assays (Annexin V/7-AAD staining, caspase activation, TUNEL) to comprehensively assess PDCD10's effects .
PDCD10 mutations cause cerebral cavernous malformations with more severe symptoms than CCM1/CCM2 mutations. To investigate this:
Patient Sample Analysis:
Use immunohistochemistry to compare PDCD10 expression in CCM lesions versus normal brain vasculature
Correlate PDCD10 expression patterns with CCM severity and progression
Consider laser capture microdissection to isolate specific vascular cell populations
Mechanistic Studies:
Investigate PDCD10's interaction with VEGFR2, which is critical for vascular development
Examine PDCD10's role in ANG-2 secretion, which is implicated in dysfunctional endothelial junctions
Study PDCD10's regulation of the Golgi complex and its impact on vascular development
Model Systems:
Utilize conditional knockout mouse models (complete PDCD10 knockout is embryonically lethal)
Develop in vitro models using endothelial cells with PDCD10 mutations/knockdown
Consider zebrafish models for high-throughput screening of potential therapeutic compounds
These approaches can provide insights into why PDCD10 mutations lead to more aggressive CCM phenotypes than other CCM genes .
As PDCD10's role in cancer becomes better understood, several promising research directions are emerging:
Biomarker Development:
Evaluate PDCD10 as a prognostic biomarker in various cancers (already validated in osteosarcoma)
Investigate PDCD10 expression as a predictive biomarker for treatment response
Develop companion diagnostic assays using validated PDCD10 antibodies
Therapeutic Target Validation:
Use antibodies to track PDCD10 inhibition in preclinical studies
Develop assays to monitor PDCD10-dependent pathways (CXCR2-AKT/ERK) in patient samples
Investigate PDCD10's role in resistance to existing therapies
Novel Therapeutic Approaches:
Explore small molecule inhibitors of PDCD10-protein interactions
Investigate the potential of PDCD10-targeting antibody-drug conjugates
Consider combination approaches targeting PDCD10 alongside conventional therapies
Personalized Medicine Applications:
Stratify patients based on PDCD10 expression/mutation status
Tailor treatment approaches based on PDCD10's context-specific roles
Monitor treatment efficacy using PDCD10 and related pathway biomarkers
To fully elucidate PDCD10's complex functions, integrated approaches are necessary:
Multi-omics Integration:
Combine proteomics, transcriptomics, and phosphoproteomics data
Correlate PDCD10 expression with global pathway alterations
Map PDCD10 interactome in different cellular contexts
Advanced Imaging Approaches:
Use proximity ligation assays to validate protein-protein interactions in situ
Implement live-cell imaging to track PDCD10 dynamics during cellular processes
Apply super-resolution microscopy to localize PDCD10 within subcellular compartments
Systems Biology Analysis:
Develop computational models of PDCD10-dependent signaling networks
Predict context-specific effects of PDCD10 perturbation
Identify key nodes for potential therapeutic targeting
Functional Genomics Screening:
Conduct synthetic lethality screens in PDCD10-high versus PDCD10-low contexts
Identify genetic dependencies that could be exploited therapeutically
Use CRISPR-based approaches to systematically dissect PDCD10 function
These integrated approaches can provide a more comprehensive understanding of PDCD10's multifaceted roles across different biological contexts and disease states .
Western Blot Protocol:
Prepare whole-tissue homogenates in RIPA buffer containing protease and phosphatase inhibitors
Determine protein concentrations using BCA assay
Separate 30 μg total protein by SDS-PAGE
Transfer to nitrocellulose membrane
Block with 5% skim milk in TBST for 1 hour at room temperature
Incubate with PDCD10 antibody (1:500-1:6000 dilution) overnight at 4°C
Wash 4 times with TBST, 5 minutes each
Incubate with HRP-conjugated secondary antibody (1:5000) for 1 hour at room temperature
Develop with ECL substrate and image
Immunohistochemistry Protocol:
Deparaffinize and rehydrate tissue sections
Perform antigen retrieval with TE buffer pH 9.0 (preferred) or citrate buffer pH 6.0
Block endogenous peroxidase with 3% H₂O₂
Block with 5% normal serum
Incubate with PDCD10 antibody (1:50-1:500 dilution) overnight at 4°C
Apply detection system according to manufacturer's instructions
Counterstain, dehydrate, and mount
PDCD10 typically shows cytoplasmic and nuclear staining patterns
Immunoprecipitation Protocol:
Prepare cell lysates in IP buffer with protease inhibitors
Clear lysates by centrifugation
Pre-clear with Protein A/G beads
Add 0.5-4.0 μg PDCD10 antibody to 1.0-3.0 mg protein lysate
Incubate overnight at 4°C with gentle rotation
Add Protein A/G beads and incubate for 2-4 hours
Wash beads 3-5 times with IP buffer
Elute proteins with 2X Laemmli buffer
Commercial Antibody Sources:
Proteintech: Offers both polyclonal (10294-2-AP) and monoclonal (66440-1-Ig) PDCD10 antibodies with validated applications
Thermo Fisher Scientific: Provides polyclonal PDCD10 antibody (PA5-49709)
Several other suppliers offer antibodies against specific regions or with different host species/isotypes
Database Resources:
UniProt ID: Q9BUL8 (Human PDCD10)
GenBank Accession Number: BC002506
Gene ID (NCBI): 11235
Research Resource Identifiers (RRID): AB_2162153 (polyclonal), AB_2881810 (monoclonal)
Research Tools:
PDCD10 knockdown vectors: Lentiviral shRNA vectors (e.g., LV-PDCD10 71721)
PDCD10 overexpression vectors: pcDNA3.1-based constructs
GEO datasets: GSE26966 contains PDCD10 expression data in normal versus tumor tissues
Pathway databases: Contains information on PDCD10-related signaling networks
Most commercial antibodies come with detailed validation data, application-specific protocols, and recommended positive controls to facilitate experimental design .