PLPP2 (Phospholipid Phosphatase 2) antibodies are specialized immunological tools designed to detect and study the PLPP2 protein, a key enzyme in lipid metabolism and signal transduction. PLPP2, also known as PPAP2C or LPP2, catalyzes the dephosphorylation of phospholipids, influencing cellular processes such as membrane lipid composition and cell proliferation. These antibodies are critical in research to investigate PLPP2’s role in diseases like cancer, where its overexpression is linked to tumor progression and metastasis .
| Supplier | Antibody Type | Reactivity | Applications | Dilution Ranges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EpiGentek | Polyclonal | Human | WB, ELISA, IF, IHC | WB: 1:500–1:2000; IHC: 1:20–1:200 |
| AFG Scientific | Polyclonal | Human | WB, ELISA, IHC, IF | WB: 1:500–1:2000; IHC: 1:20–1:200 |
| Aviva Systems Biology | Polyclonal | Human, Pig | WB, ELISA, FC | WB: 1:500–1:2000; ELISA: 1:500–1:2000 |
| Sigma-Aldrich | Polyclonal | Human | IF, IHC | IF: 0.25–2 µg/mL; IHC: 1:50–1:200 |
| Cusabio | Polyclonal | Human | WB, ELISA, ICC, IHC | WB: 1:500–1:2000; IHC: 1:20–1:200 |
PLPP2 antibodies are employed in diverse experimental techniques:
Detects PLPP2 protein levels in cell lysates and tissues, critical for studying its expression in cancer models .
Example: PLPP2 knockout in breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) reduced nuclear c-Myc expression and inhibited G1/S cell cycle transition .
Maps PLPP2 localization in clinical specimens, such as lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tissues .
Elevated PLPP2 expression in LUAD correlates with poor prognosis and lipid raft formation .
PLPP2 antibodies have enabled critical insights into the protein’s role in oncogenesis:
Lipid Raft Formation: PLPP2 modulates lipid raft components (e.g., sphingomyelin, sphingosine), enhancing oncogenic signaling .
Cell Cycle Regulation: PLPP2 knockdown inhibits G1/S transition by reducing cyclin A2/B1 and increasing p27/p21 inhibitors .
Therapeutic Targeting: Inhibiting PLPP2 with antibodies or MβCD (a lipid raft disruptor) suppresses tumor growth in preclinical models .
| Supplier | Product Highlights | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| EpiGentek | Trial size (20 µg) and bulk options (50–100 µg); WB/ELISA/IF/IHC validated | $99.00–$299.00 |
| AFG Scientific | Rabbit-derived polyclonal; >95% purity; WB/ELISA/IHC/IF protocols included | $190.00–$299.00 |
| Sigma-Aldrich | Prestige Antibodies®; validated for IF/IHC; glycerol-stabilized liquid format | Inquire |
| Aviva Systems Biology | Cross-reactive with pig; WB/ELISA/FC applications | $389.00 |
This antibody targets PLPP2, a magnesium-independent phospholipid phosphatase. PLPP2 catalyzes the dephosphorylation of various glycerolipid and sphingolipid phosphate esters, including phosphatidate (PA), lysophosphatidate (LPA), sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), and ceramide 1-phosphate (C1P). Its intracellular localization suggests a predominantly intracellular function, lacking significant extracellular phosphatase activity. PLPP2 also acts on N-oleoyl ethanolamine phosphate (N-(9Z-octadecenoyl)-ethanolamine phosphate), a potentially important physiological compound. Through the dephosphorylation of these bioactive lipid mediators, PLPP2 generates new bioactive compounds and likely regulates signal transduction pathways in diverse cellular processes. For example, its phospholipid phosphatase activity indirectly influences cell cycle G1/S phase transition.
PLPP2, also known as lipid phosphate phosphatase-2 (LPP2), is an enzyme belonging to the lipid phosphate phosphatase family that dephosphorylates both extracellular and intracellular bioactive lipid phosphates and pyrophosphates . PLPP2 plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism and cellular signaling pathways. Research has demonstrated that PLPP2 participates in lipid raft formation by altering the component contents of lipid rafts, including esters, sphingomyelin, and sphingosine . This function is particularly significant as lipid rafts serve as platforms for numerous signaling pathways in cells.
PLPP2 has been shown to influence several critical cellular processes including proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation . One of its most documented functions is the promotion of cell growth through cell cycle regulation, particularly in the G1/S transition . The enzyme has also been implicated in cancer progression across various tumor types, suggesting its potential role as an oncogenic factor and possible therapeutic target.
PLPP2 antibodies are versatile tools in research with multiple validated applications. Based on current research protocols, the primary applications include:
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): PLPP2 antibodies can be used at dilutions of 1:50-1:200 for detecting PLPP2 in tissue sections, allowing researchers to examine its expression in normal tissues versus tumor samples .
Immunofluorescence (IF): With recommended concentrations of 0.25-2 μg/mL, PLPP2 antibodies enable subcellular localization studies to determine the distribution pattern within different cellular compartments .
Western blotting: PLPP2 antibodies (such as rabbit polyclonal antibodies at 1:1000 dilution) can be employed for protein quantification in cell and tissue lysates .
Tissue microarrays: These antibodies facilitate high-throughput screening of PLPP2 expression across multiple samples simultaneously, particularly valuable for cancer research .
When selecting a PLPP2 antibody, researchers should consider the specific epitope recognition, cross-reactivity profile, and validation data available through resources like the Human Protein Atlas to ensure optimal results for their particular application.
To preserve antibody integrity and activity, PLPP2 antibodies should be stored at -20°C in their original buffered aqueous glycerol solution . Repeated freeze-thaw cycles can significantly diminish antibody performance, so it's advisable to prepare small working aliquots for routine experiments. When shipping is necessary, wet ice conditions are recommended to maintain antibody stability during transit .
For daily handling, researchers should:
Keep antibodies on ice when in use
Avoid contamination by using sterile techniques
Return to appropriate storage promptly after use
Monitor expiration dates and storage conditions regularly
Prior to experiments, gentle mixing by inversion rather than vortexing is recommended to prevent protein denaturation while ensuring homogeneous distribution. Proper storage and handling practices are essential for reproducible results, particularly in quantitative applications like Western blotting and immunohistochemistry where antibody performance directly impacts data quality.
Optimizing PLPP2 immunohistochemistry across different tissue types requires careful attention to tissue-specific factors and antigen retrieval methods. Based on research utilizing PLPP2 antibodies, the following protocol optimizations are recommended:
For formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) lung adenocarcinoma tissues:
Section thickness: Use 4-5 μm sections for optimal antibody penetration
Antigen retrieval: Heat-induced epitope retrieval (HIER) in citrate buffer (pH 6.0) at 95-98°C for 20 minutes has shown superior results
Primary antibody concentration: Start with 1:100 dilution and adjust based on signal-to-noise ratio
Incubation conditions: Overnight at 4°C to maximize specific binding
Detection system: Use polymer-based detection systems for enhanced sensitivity
For tissues with high lipid content (such as brain or adipose tissue):
Consider extending deparaffinization steps
Include additional blocking steps (3% BSA with 0.1% Triton X-100) to reduce background
Implement more stringent washing conditions (0.1% Tween-20 in PBS)
Consider using automated staining platforms for improved consistency
To validate staining specificity, researchers should include appropriate controls:
Positive control: Known PLPP2-expressing tissues (breast tumors, hepatocellular carcinoma)
Negative control: Non-expressing tissues or PLPP2 knockout samples
Antibody control: Omitting primary antibody or using isotype control
These optimizations should be systematically documented and may require tissue-specific adjustments to achieve reproducible, high-quality PLPP2 staining across different experimental contexts.
Validating PLPP2 antibody specificity is crucial for generating reliable research data. A comprehensive validation approach should include multiple complementary techniques:
Genetic knockdown/knockout validation:
Use PLPP2 CRISPR/Cas9 knockout cell lines (such as HeLa PLPP2-KO) as negative controls
Compare antibody signal between wild-type and knockout samples across applications
Implement siRNA knockdown with validated sequences (e.g., 5'-GGAUGUACUGCAUGGUGUUTT-3' and 5'-GCUCGGACUUCAACAACUATT-3') as temporary alternatives to stable knockouts
Recombinant protein validation:
Orthogonal method validation:
Correlate protein detection with mRNA expression using RT-qPCR with validated primers:
Compare results across multiple antibodies targeting different PLPP2 epitopes
Use mass spectrometry to confirm the identity of immunoprecipitated proteins
Signal specificity controls:
Include appropriate blocking peptides
Test cross-reactivity with related phospholipid phosphatases (PLPP1, PLPP3)
Perform immunostaining with secondary antibody alone
Through these systematic validation steps, researchers can confidently establish the specificity of their PLPP2 antibody and distinguish true signal from potential artifacts, ensuring the reliability of subsequent experimental findings.
Selecting appropriate cell models is critical for PLPP2 research success. Based on published studies, the following cell models have demonstrated utility for PLPP2 investigations:
Cancer cell lines with high endogenous PLPP2 expression:
Breast cancer: MCF7, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468, Hs-578T (all showing higher PLPP2 expression compared to non-malignant MCF10A, MCF-12A)
Lung cancer: NCI-H1299, A549 (validated for PLPP2 knockdown and overexpression studies)
Other: HeLa cells (commercially available as PLPP2 knockout lines)
Non-malignant control cell lines:
Breast epithelial: MCF10A, MCF-12A, Hs-578Bst (expressing lower PLPP2 levels)
These provide essential comparative controls for cancer-related studies
Animal cell models:
For functional studies, researchers should consider:
Matching cell types with research questions (e.g., lung adenocarcinoma cells for lung cancer studies)
Verifying baseline PLPP2 expression levels by Western blot or qPCR before experimental manipulation
Establishing stable PLPP2 overexpression and knockout lines using lentiviral systems as described in published protocols
Using isogenic cell models where possible to reduce confounding variables
When planning antibody-based experiments, consider cellular compartmentalization of PLPP2, as its function in lipid raft formation suggests membrane localization may be critical to its biological activity. Subcellular fractionation followed by Western blotting can provide valuable insights into PLPP2 distribution before proceeding with more complex functional assays.
Investigating PLPP2's role in lipid raft formation requires carefully designed experiments that combine antibody-based detection with specialized lipid analysis techniques. Based on published methodologies, the following experimental design is recommended:
Experimental setup:
Cell model preparation:
Lipid raft isolation and characterization:
PLPP2 localization studies:
Functional assays:
Data analysis considerations:
Quantify changes in lipid raft component ratios between experimental groups
Correlate PLPP2 expression levels with lipid raft abundance
Assess whether lipid raft disruption reverses PLPP2-mediated phenotypes
This experimental design allows researchers to establish both correlative and causative relationships between PLPP2 expression, lipid raft formation, and downstream cellular phenotypes, providing mechanistic insights into PLPP2's biological functions.
PLPP2 antibodies can be strategically employed to assess the prognostic value of PLPP2 expression across various cancer types. Based on published approaches, a comprehensive prognostic evaluation would include:
Tissue microarray (TMA) analysis:
Integration with molecular data:
Compare antibody-based protein detection with transcriptomic data from the same samples
Correlate PLPP2 expression with established molecular subtypes (e.g., in breast cancer: luminal A/B, HER2+, triple-negative)
Perform multivariate analysis to determine if PLPP2 is an independent prognostic factor
*Data not specifically provided in search results but referenced as having poorer survival
Research has shown that elevated PLPP2 levels were identified as an independent prognostic risk factor for lung adenocarcinoma patients , making it a promising marker for risk stratification in early-stage disease. Similar patterns have been observed across multiple cancer types, suggesting PLPP2's broad relevance as a potential prognostic biomarker.
To analyze the relationship between PLPP2 expression and cell cycle progression in cancer cells, researchers should implement a multi-faceted approach combining antibody-based detection with functional cell cycle assessments:
Protocol for coordinated PLPP2 and cell cycle analysis:
PLPP2 expression manipulation:
Cell cycle analysis:
Flow cytometry with propidium iodide staining to quantify cell distribution across G0/G1, S, and G2/M phases
EdU incorporation assays to specifically measure S-phase entry and progression
Time-lapse imaging with cell cycle reporters for real-time monitoring
Cell cycle protein detection:
Data integration and analysis:
Quantify changes in G1/S transition rates between control and PLPP2-manipulated cells
Correlate PLPP2 expression levels with cell cycle distribution patterns
Perform rescue experiments to confirm specificity:
This protocol captures the reported effect of PLPP2 on cell cycle progression, particularly its role in promoting G1 to S phase transition, which appears to be linked to c-myc expression . Additionally, correlating these findings with lipid raft disruption experiments can elucidate whether PLPP2's effect on cell cycle is mediated through its role in lipid raft formation.
Investigating the molecular nexus between PLPP2, lipid rafts, and cell proliferation requires an integrated experimental approach that combines genetic manipulation, biochemical analysis, and functional assays:
Comprehensive mechanistic investigation protocol:
PLPP2 structure-function analysis:
Generate domain-specific mutants of PLPP2 to identify regions critical for:
Enzymatic activity
Lipid raft localization
Interaction with signaling partners
Express these variants in PLPP2-knockout backgrounds to assess functional rescue
Lipidomic profiling:
Signaling pathway analysis:
Investigate how PLPP2-mediated lipid raft changes affect oncogenic signaling:
Assess activation status of raft-associated signaling proteins
Monitor cell-cycle related signaling molecules (c-myc, cyclins)
Examine crosstalk between lipid metabolism and proliferative pathways
In vivo validation:
Implement mouse tumor models using cell lines with controlled PLPP2 expression:
Subcutaneous injection of LLC/Vector or LLC/PLPP2 OE cells (2×10^5 cells/mouse)
Treatment with lipid raft disruptor MβCD (10 mg/kg) administered intravenously every two days
Monitor tumor growth kinetics and analyze harvested tumors for:
Lipid raft markers
Proliferation indices
Cell cycle protein expression
Integrated data analysis:
Establish temporal relationships between:
PLPP2 expression → lipid raft changes → signaling alterations → cell cycle progression
Develop predictive models of how quantitative changes in PLPP2 levels affect downstream processes
This experimental framework addresses the observed phenomenon that "PLPP2 could induce excessive cell proliferation by enhancing lipid raft formation in LUAD cells" , providing mechanistic insights into how PLPP2 contributes to cancer progression and identifying potential intervention points for therapeutic development.
Understanding PLPP2's protein interaction network is crucial for deciphering its role in cancer progression. Researchers can employ the following advanced techniques to characterize these interactions:
Protein-protein interaction investigation techniques:
Proximity-based interaction mapping:
BioID or TurboID: Fuse PLPP2 with a biotin ligase to biotinylate proximal proteins
APEX-based proximity labeling: Generate an electron-dense precipitate around PLPP2
These methods are particularly valuable for capturing transient or weak interactions in their native cellular context
Co-immunoprecipitation approaches:
Functional interaction screens:
CRISPR-based genetic interaction screens in PLPP2-high vs. PLPP2-low backgrounds
Synthetic lethality screens to identify genes whose function becomes essential in PLPP2-altered states
Combinatorial drug screens to identify synergistic targets
Spatial interaction mapping:
Super-resolution microscopy with multi-color immunofluorescence
Proximity ligation assays (PLA) to detect protein-protein interactions in situ
FRET/BRET approaches to measure real-time, dynamic interactions
Computational prediction and validation:
In silico prediction of interaction partners based on structural modeling
Network analysis integrating transcriptomic data with protein interaction databases
Validation of predicted interactions using targeted assays
Data interpretation considerations:
Researchers should focus on identifying interactions that connect PLPP2 to:
Lipid raft-associated proteins
Cell cycle regulators (particularly those affecting G1/S transition)
Oncogenic signaling pathways implicated in tumor types with elevated PLPP2
The integration of these complementary approaches will provide a comprehensive map of PLPP2's interactome, offering insights into how this enzyme contributes to cancer progression through both its enzymatic activity and potential scaffolding functions within key signaling complexes.
Researchers working with PLPP2 antibodies may encounter several technical challenges that can affect experimental outcomes. Here are common issues and evidence-based solutions:
1. Weak or inconsistent Western blot signals:
Challenge: PLPP2 detection may yield faint bands or inconsistent results
Solutions:
Optimize protein extraction using specialized buffers containing 1% Triton X-100 for membrane protein solubilization
Increase antibody concentration gradually (starting from 1:1000)
Extend primary antibody incubation to overnight at 4°C
Use enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) substrates with higher sensitivity
Validate protein loading with robust housekeeping controls (β-tubulin recommended over GAPDH for certain cell types)
2. Background issues in immunohistochemistry:
Challenge: Non-specific staining interfering with accurate PLPP2 detection
Solutions:
3. Cross-reactivity with related phospholipases:
Challenge: Antibodies may detect related family members (PLPP1, PLPP3)
Solutions:
4. Inconsistent immunofluorescence localization:
Challenge: Variable subcellular patterns between experiments
Solutions:
Standardize fixation protocols (4% paraformaldehyde recommended)
Optimize permeabilization for membrane proteins (0.1% Triton X-100)
Use co-staining with established subcellular markers
Employ confocal microscopy with consistent acquisition parameters
These solutions are based on successful protocols reported in PLPP2 research and represent best practices to ensure reliable and reproducible antibody-based detection of this important enzyme across different experimental contexts.
Accurate quantification of PLPP2 expression in clinical samples requires robust methodologies that address the challenges of tissue heterogeneity and sample preservation. For biomarker development, researchers should implement the following comprehensive approach:
Multi-modal PLPP2 quantification strategy:
Immunohistochemistry standardization:
Implement automated staining platforms to minimize batch effects
Use tissue microarrays with standardized controls on each slide
Develop quantitative scoring systems:
Digital image analysis using validated algorithms
H-score calculation (intensity × percentage positive cells)
Consider tumor heterogeneity by analyzing multiple regions
Establish clear cutoff values for "high" versus "low" expression based on:
ROC curve analysis for outcome prediction
Comparison with normal tissue expression levels
Complementary molecular quantification:
Protein quantification optimization:
Western blot with recombinant protein standards for absolute quantification
Consider developing targeted mass spectrometry assays (PRM/MRM) for absolute protein quantification
Use phospholipid phosphatase activity assays as functional readouts
Quality control procedures:
Implement rigorous pre-analytical controls:
Document cold ischemia time
Standardize fixation protocols
Include sample quality metrics in analysis
Use cell line standards with known PLPP2 expression levels as inter-assay controls
Clinical validation approach:
Establish analytical validation metrics:
Precision (intra- and inter-assay)
Accuracy (comparison to reference methods)
Analytical sensitivity and specificity
Perform clinical validation in independent cohorts with diverse patient populations
| Quantification Method | Advantages | Limitations | Recommended Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| IHC with digital analysis | Preserves tissue architecture, Can detect subcellular localization | Semi-quantitative, Subject to fixation artifacts | Tumor heterogeneity assessment, Retrospective studies |
| RT-qPCR | Highly sensitive, Good dynamic range | RNA degradation in FFPE, No protein information | Fresh/frozen samples, Gene expression correlation |
| Targeted proteomics | Absolute quantification, High specificity | Complex sample preparation, Specialized equipment | Biomarker validation, Pharmacodynamic studies |
This comprehensive approach enables researchers to develop PLPP2 as a clinically meaningful biomarker with applications in early cancer detection, prognosis assessment, and potentially therapeutic response prediction across multiple cancer types.
Several cutting-edge technologies are poised to transform PLPP2 antibody-based research and its applications in personalized medicine:
Spatial biology platforms:
Multiplexed immunofluorescence technologies (e.g., CODEX, IBEX) could revolutionize our understanding of PLPP2's spatial relationships with other proteins in the tumor microenvironment
Single-cell spatial transcriptomics combined with protein detection can reveal how PLPP2 expression varies across different cell populations within tumors
These approaches could identify unique PLPP2-associated cellular neighborhoods with prognostic or therapeutic relevance
Advanced antibody engineering:
Recombinant nanobodies against PLPP2 may offer superior tissue penetration and reduced background
Bispecific antibodies targeting PLPP2 and lipid raft markers could provide unprecedented insights into their co-localization dynamics
Antibody-drug conjugates targeting PLPP2 might provide novel therapeutic approaches for cancers with PLPP2 overexpression
Liquid biopsy applications:
Developing sensitive assays for PLPP2 detection in circulating tumor cells or extracellular vesicles
Exploring PLPP2's potential as a minimally invasive biomarker for:
Early cancer detection
Monitoring treatment response
Predicting recurrence
Integrative multi-omics approaches:
Combining antibody-based PLPP2 detection with:
Lipidomic profiling to correlate protein levels with lipid alterations
Phosphoproteomics to understand downstream signaling effects
Metabolomics to link PLPP2 activity to broader metabolic reprogramming in cancer
AI-enhanced image analysis:
Machine learning algorithms could improve quantification of PLPP2 in complex tissue architectures
Computer vision approaches might identify subtle PLPP2 expression patterns associated with clinical outcomes
Digital pathology integration would facilitate large-scale analyses across diverse patient populations
These emerging technologies could significantly advance our understanding of PLPP2's role in cancer development and progression, potentially leading to:
More precise patient stratification based on PLPP2 expression patterns
Novel therapeutic strategies targeting PLPP2-mediated lipid raft formation
Companion diagnostics to guide treatment selection in personalized oncology approaches
As research continues to elucidate the complex functions of PLPP2 in various cellular contexts, these technologies will be instrumental in translating basic scientific discoveries into clinically relevant applications.
PLPP2 antibody research holds significant promise for developing targeted cancer therapies through multiple strategic approaches:
Mechanism-based therapeutic development pathways:
Direct targeting strategies:
Therapeutic antibodies against extracellular domains of PLPP2
Small molecule inhibitors identified through antibody-based screening platforms
Antibody-drug conjugates delivering cytotoxic payloads to PLPP2-overexpressing cells
RNA interference therapeutics validated using antibody-confirmed knockdown models
Pathway-based interventions:
Target the lipid raft formation process in PLPP2-high tumors
Develop combinatorial approaches targeting both PLPP2 and downstream cell cycle regulators
Exploit synthetic lethality interactions identified through antibody-validated screens
Design metabolic interventions addressing altered lipid metabolism in PLPP2-overexpressing cancers
Biomarker-guided precision medicine:
Stratify patients based on PLPP2 expression levels for clinical trial enrollment
Monitor PLPP2 levels during treatment to assess target engagement
Identify resistance mechanisms through longitudinal PLPP2 expression analysis
Develop companion diagnostics for therapies targeting PLPP2-associated pathways
Translational research opportunities:
Current research has established that "elevated PLPP2 levels were identified as an independent prognostic risk factor for LUAD patients" and that "PLPP2 could induce excessive cell proliferation by enhancing lipid raft formation in LUAD cells" . These findings suggest several specific therapeutic approaches:
Disrupting lipid raft formation in PLPP2-high tumors using agents like methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD), which has shown promise in preclinical models
Targeting the G1/S transition in cancers with PLPP2 overexpression, given PLPP2's role in promoting this cell cycle progression
Developing combination therapies that simultaneously target PLPP2 and c-myc pathways, as PLPP2 knockdown has been shown to reduce c-myc expression
The path from antibody-based research to therapeutic development will involve:
Careful patient selection based on standardized PLPP2 quantification
Monitoring of on-target effects using validated antibodies
Assessment of resistance mechanisms through serial biopsies
By leveraging antibody-based research to fully characterize PLPP2's role in cancer biology, researchers can develop novel therapeutic strategies that specifically address the oncogenic mechanisms driven by this important enzyme, potentially improving outcomes for patients with PLPP2-overexpressing tumors.