Prostate Cancer: RASAL2 upregulation correlates with advanced tumor stage and poor survival. HRP-conjugated antibodies helped confirm elevated RASAL2 expression in metastatic lymph nodes via IHC .
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): RASAL2 mediates chemotherapy resistance but confers sensitivity to MEK/EGFR inhibitors. WB using HRP-conjugated antibodies validated RASAL2's role in sustaining RAS/EGFR signaling .
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): RASAL2 promotes proliferation and metastasis via PI3K/AKT activation. siRNA knockdown studies paired with WB demonstrated reduced p-AKT levels upon RASAL2 suppression .
Hepatic Steatosis: Proteintech’s RASAL2 antibody (22140-1-AP) revealed RASAL2’s role in VLDL secretion through AKT/TET1/MTTP axis modulation .
Renal Fibrosis: RASAL2 initiates peritubular capillary rarefaction, as shown in hypoxic kidney models using IHC .
Western Blot:
Immunohistochemistry:
Specificity confirmed via siRNA knockdown in HCC cell lines (HuH-7, HCC-LM3) .
Consistent expression patterns observed in TCGA and GEO datasets .
RASAL2 (RAS Protein Activator Like 2) is a RAS-GTPase-activating protein (RAS-GAP) that regulates RAS signaling pathways by promoting GTP hydrolysis of RAS proteins, effectively inactivating them. RASAL2 contains a characteristic GRD (GAP-related domain) and a coiled-coil structure at the C-terminus . This protein plays crucial roles in several cellular processes including:
Regulation of RAS-mediated signal transduction
Modulation of cell proliferation and metastasis pathways
Involvement in chemotherapy resistance mechanisms, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)
Alteration of RAS signaling homeostasis with implications for EGFR upregulation
RASAL2 can function as both a tumor suppressor and oncogene depending on the cellular context, making it a complex target for research.
The RASAL2 Antibody conjugated with HRP is characterized by specific technical parameters essential for experimental planning:
These specifications provide a foundation for experimental design and troubleshooting.
RASAL2 demonstrates context-dependent roles in cancer progression:
In triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), RASAL2 functions as a mediator of chemotherapy resistance. Mechanistically, RASAL2 GAP activity is required to confer kinase inhibitor sensitivity, as RASAL2-high TNBCs sustain basal RAS activity through suppression of negative feedback regulators SPRY1/2, together with EGFR upregulation . This altered signaling creates a vulnerability to combination therapies targeting MEK1/2 and EGFR pathways.
In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), upregulated RASAL2 promotes proliferation and metastasis, indicating an oncogenic role in this context . The expression of RASAL2 is higher in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for this cancer type.
High RASAL2 levels predict clinical chemotherapy response and long-term outcomes in TNBC patients and are associated with activated oncogenic Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) through direct transcriptional regulation .
For optimal Western Blotting results with RASAL2 Antibody (HRP conjugated), researchers should follow this protocol:
Sample Preparation:
Extract proteins from cells or tissues using standard lysis buffers containing protease inhibitors
Quantify protein concentration (Bradford/BCA assay)
Prepare samples containing 20-50 μg of total protein per lane
Denature samples in Laemmli buffer at 95°C for 5 minutes
Gel Electrophoresis:
Transfer and Blocking:
Transfer proteins to PVDF membrane (recommended over nitrocellulose for high MW proteins)
Block membranes with 3-5% BSA in TBST for 1 hour at room temperature
Antibody Incubation:
Detection:
Optimization tips: If background is high, increase washing time/stringency or further dilute primary antibody. If signal is weak, decrease antibody dilution or increase protein load.
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for generating reliable data. For RASAL2 Antibody (HRP conjugated), consider these validation approaches:
Knockout/Knockdown Controls:
Perform siRNA or CRISPR-mediated knockdown/knockout of RASAL2
Compare signal between wildtype and KO/KD samples in Western blot
A specific antibody will show significantly reduced or absent signal in KO/KD samples
Overexpression Validation:
Transfect cells with RASAL2 expression vectors
Verify increased signal intensity in overexpressing cells
This confirms the antibody recognizes the target protein
Peptide Competition Assay:
Cross-reactivity Assessment:
Reproducibility Testing:
Documentation of these validation steps should be maintained and reported in publications to enhance experimental credibility.
When using RASAL2 Antibody (HRP conjugated) for ELISA applications, researchers should consider these critical factors:
Assay Format Selection:
Direct ELISA: Immobilize antigen directly on plate
Sandwich ELISA: Requires a capture antibody (non-HRP conjugated RASAL2 antibody)
The HRP-conjugated format is particularly suitable for direct ELISA applications
Protocol Optimization:
Coating concentration: Titrate antigen (0.1-10 μg/ml) to determine optimal coating
Antibody dilution: Start at 1:1000 and optimize based on signal-to-noise ratio
Blocking buffer: 3% BSA in PBS is recommended to minimize background
Incubation times: 2 hours at room temperature or overnight at 4°C for primary antibody
Controls to Include:
Positive control: Recombinant RASAL2 protein or lysate from cells known to express RASAL2
Negative control: Lysate from RASAL2 knockout cells
Background control: Wells with no antigen but treated with all reagents
Standard curve: Serial dilutions of recombinant RASAL2 for quantitative analysis
Signal Development:
Use TMB substrate for HRP detection
Monitor reaction kinetics to determine optimal development time
Stop reaction with 2N H₂SO₄ when appropriate signal intensity is achieved
Measure absorbance at 450 nm with reference at 570 nm
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
High background: Increase blocking time or washing stringency
Weak signal: Decrease antibody dilution or increase substrate incubation time
Inconsistent results: Standardize incubation temperatures and times
Adapting these considerations will help ensure reliable and reproducible ELISA results for RASAL2 detection.
Investigating RASAL2's role in chemotherapy resistance requires sophisticated experimental approaches:
Expression Analysis in Resistant vs. Sensitive Models:
Quantify RASAL2 protein levels via Western blotting with HRP-conjugated antibody in:
Paired sensitive/resistant cell lines
Patient-derived xenografts before and after treatment
Clinical samples from responders vs. non-responders
Correlate RASAL2 expression with established resistance markers
Mechanistic Investigation:
Functional Validation:
Generate stable RASAL2-overexpressing and knockdown cell lines
Subject to various chemotherapeutic agents (cisplatin, carboplatin, etc.)
Measure cell viability, apoptosis, and DNA damage markers
Test combination therapies with MEK1/2 and EGFR inhibitors, which show synergistic effects in RASAL2-high TNBCs
Clinical Correlation:
Research has shown that in TNBC, high RASAL2 levels predict clinical chemotherapy response and long-term outcomes, with chemorefractory models exhibiting YAP activation and high RASAL2 expression . This suggests RASAL2 as a potential biomarker for treatment selection.
The context-dependent function of RASAL2 requires careful experimental design:
Comparative Expression Analysis:
Quantify RASAL2 protein levels across multiple cancer types using HRP-conjugated antibody
Perform subcellular fractionation to determine localization patterns
Compare with normal tissue counterparts to establish baseline expression
Functional Genomics Approach:
Conduct CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout in multiple cancer cell lines
Perform parallel overexpression studies with wildtype RASAL2
Assess phenotypic changes in:
Proliferation rates (cell counting, EdU incorporation)
Invasion/migration (transwell assays, wound healing)
Anchorage-independent growth (soft agar assays)
In vivo tumorigenicity
Pathway Analysis:
Mutational and Domain Analysis:
Generate GAP-deficient RASAL2 mutants
Create domain-specific deletions to identify critical functional regions
Test these constructs in rescue experiments
Tissue-Specific Models:
Develop conditional knockout mice for tissue-specific RASAL2 deletion
Cross with established cancer models to observe effects on tumor initiation/progression
Compare phenotypes across different tissue types
Research has demonstrated that RASAL2 acts as an oncogene in hepatocellular carcinoma, promoting proliferation and metastasis , while functioning as a mediator of chemotherapy resistance but conferring sensitivity to targeted therapies in TNBC . These contrasting roles highlight the importance of cellular context in RASAL2 function.
To investigate the RASAL2-EGFR/MEK relationship using RASAL2 Antibody (HRP conjugated):
Co-expression Analysis:
Perform immunoblotting with RASAL2 (HRP-conjugated) antibody alongside EGFR, MEK, and downstream effectors
Create a protein expression correlation matrix across cell lines or patient samples
Use fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry to visualize co-expression patterns in tissue sections
Signaling Dynamics Assessment:
Treat cells with EGFR/MEK inhibitors at various timepoints
Monitor RASAL2 expression changes via Western blotting
Assess phosphorylation status of pathway components
Design pulse-chase experiments to determine temporal relationships
Feedback Mechanism Investigation:
Evaluate expression of feedback regulators (SPRY1/2, DUSP family)
Measure RAS activity after RASAL2 modulation using RAS-GTP pulldown assays
Quantify changes in EGFR surface expression and turnover rates
Combination Therapy Testing:
Establish RASAL2 high/low experimental models
Apply MEK inhibitors (trametinib, selumetinib) alone and in combination with EGFR inhibitors (erlotinib, gefitinib)
Monitor apoptotic response via cleaved PARP/caspase-3 detection
Analyze synergistic effects using combination index calculations
In vivo Validation:
Develop xenograft models with varied RASAL2 expression
Treat with MEK/EGFR inhibitor combinations
Monitor tumor regression and perform pharmacodynamic studies
Use western blotting with HRP-conjugated RASAL2 antibody on tumor lysates to confirm expression
Research has demonstrated that RASAL2-high TNBCs sustain basal RAS activity through suppression of negative feedback regulators SPRY1/2, together with EGFR upregulation . This creates vulnerability to combined MEK1/2 and EGFR inhibition, resulting in synergistic apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo.
When facing inconsistent results with RASAL2 Antibody (HRP conjugated) in Western blotting:
Sample Preparation Issues:
Problem: Protein degradation
Solution: Use fresh samples, add protease inhibitors, maintain cold chain
Problem: Inefficient protein extraction
Solution: Optimize lysis buffer composition, extend lysis time for membrane proteins
Electrophoresis and Transfer Challenges:
Antibody-Specific Considerations:
Problem: Non-specific binding
Solution: Increase antibody dilution (test range from 1:500 to 1:5000) , use more stringent washing
Problem: Weak signal
Solution: Decrease dilution, extend incubation time, ensure antibody is stored properly
Problem: Multiple bands
Solution: Verify isoforms, check for degradation products, confirm with knockdown controls
Detection System Factors:
Problem: Over-saturation
Solution: Shorten exposure time, reduce substrate volume
Problem: High background
Solution: Increase blocking time, use alternative blocking reagents (5% milk vs. 3% BSA)
Problem: Rapid signal decay
Solution: Use enhanced chemiluminescence reagents with extended activity
Systematic Approach to Optimization:
These troubleshooting strategies ensure reproducible detection of RASAL2 protein in complex biological samples.
Managing cross-reactivity in multi-protein detection systems requires strategic approaches:
Sequential Detection Strategy:
Strip and reprobe membranes sequentially rather than attempting simultaneous detection
Start with HRP-conjugated RASAL2 antibody
Thoroughly strip membrane using commercial stripping buffer (verify complete removal)
Block again before applying subsequent antibodies
Document signal before and after stripping to ensure complete removal
Antibody Compatibility Assessment:
Test RASAL2 Antibody (HRP conjugated) alongside other primary antibodies individually
Create a compatibility matrix noting any cross-reactivity patterns
Use fluorescent multiplexing instead of chemiluminescence when possible
Consider species of origin for all antibodies to avoid secondary antibody cross-reactivity
Sample Preparation Modifications:
Implement subcellular fractionation to separate proteins by location
Use immunoprecipitation to isolate RASAL2 specifically before analysis
Apply gradient gels to better separate proteins of similar molecular weights
Control Implementation:
Data Analysis Approaches:
Apply computational methods to deconvolute overlapping signals
Normalize signals to multiple housekeeping proteins
Implement replicate averaging to minimize random cross-reactivity effects
Document all observed cross-reactivity in methods sections of publications
Following these strategies minimizes cross-reactivity issues and enhances data reliability in complex protein detection scenarios.
Designing effective immunoprecipitation (IP) experiments for RASAL2 protein-protein interaction studies:
Antibody Selection Criteria:
Experimental Design Considerations:
Cell lysis conditions:
Use non-denaturing buffers (RIPA or NP-40-based)
Include protease and phosphatase inhibitors
Maintain cold chain throughout
Pre-clearing strategy:
Pre-clear lysate with Protein A/G beads before antibody addition
Reduces non-specific binding
Controls to include:
IgG isotype control from same species (rabbit)
Input sample (5-10% of lysate used for IP)
RASAL2 knockdown/knockout lysate
Optimization Parameters:
Antibody amount: Titrate from 1-5 μg per mg of total protein
Incubation conditions: Test both 4-hour and overnight incubation at 4°C
Washing stringency: Balance between maintaining interactions and reducing background
Elution method: Compare acidic elution vs. boiling in sample buffer
Detection Strategy for Interacting Partners:
Functional Validation Approaches:
Confirm biological relevance of interactions with functional assays
Generate interaction-deficient mutants
Test effects of disrupting interactions on signaling pathways
Correlate interaction strength with cellular phenotypes
These considerations will help researchers design robust IP experiments to investigate RASAL2's protein interaction network and its relevance to cancer biology and therapeutic response.
Developing RASAL2-based predictive biomarkers for TNBC requires systematic investigation:
Clinical Sample Analysis Framework:
Perform immunohistochemistry with validated RASAL2 antibodies on TNBC tissue microarrays
Correlate expression with treatment response data (pathological complete response rates)
Establish quantitative scoring methods (H-score, Allred score)
Determine optimal cutoff values for "RASAL2-high" vs. "RASAL2-low" designation
Multi-marker Panel Development:
Combine RASAL2 with other predictive markers:
Apply machine learning algorithms to optimize marker combinations
Validate in independent cohorts
Liquid Biopsy Applications:
Develop protocols to detect RASAL2 in circulating tumor cells
Establish correlation between tissue and liquid biopsy RASAL2 levels
Monitor changes during treatment as potential early response indicator
Design multiplexed detection systems with other biomarkers
Functional Testing Platform:
Create patient-derived organoid models
Test MEK/EGFR inhibitor combinations based on RASAL2 expression
Establish ex vivo predictive assay protocols
Correlate with in vivo response data
Clinical Trial Implementation Strategy:
Design prospective trials stratifying patients by RASAL2 expression
Test MEK1/2 and EGFR inhibitor combinations in RASAL2-high cohorts
Implement sequential biopsy protocols to monitor dynamic changes
Correlate outcomes with baseline and on-treatment biomarkers
Research has demonstrated that high RASAL2 levels predict clinical chemotherapy response and long-term outcomes in TNBC patients . Furthermore, RASAL2-high tumors show profound collateral sensitivity to combination MEK1/2 and EGFR inhibitors despite well-tolerated intermittent dosing , suggesting promising therapeutic opportunities.
To investigate miR-203 regulation of RASAL2 in hepatocellular carcinoma:
Expression Correlation Analysis:
Direct Regulation Validation:
Identify putative miR-203 binding sites in RASAL2 3'UTR using bioinformatic tools
Construct luciferase reporters containing wildtype and mutated binding sites
Perform luciferase assays after miR-203 mimic/inhibitor transfection
Conduct RNA immunoprecipitation with Ago2 to capture miRNA-target interactions
Functional Impact Assessment:
Modulate miR-203 levels (mimics, inhibitors) and measure RASAL2 protein expression
Perform rescue experiments:
Overexpress miR-203-resistant RASAL2 (lacking 3'UTR) in miR-203 overexpressing cells
Assess reversal of phenotypes (proliferation, metastasis)
Monitor downstream RAS pathway activity using phospho-specific antibodies
In vivo Modeling:
Develop xenograft models with modified miR-203/RASAL2 expression
Analyze tumor growth, metastasis formation, and RASAL2 expression in situ
Test therapeutic approaches targeting this axis
Correlate findings with patient outcomes
Clinical Translation:
Analyze miR-203 and RASAL2 expression in patient cohorts
Stratify patients based on expression patterns
Correlate with clinical parameters and outcomes
Assess potential as prognostic or predictive biomarkers
Research has shown that RASAL2 is upregulated in HCC tissues compared to normal liver tissues and promotes proliferation and metastasis . The targeting of RASAL2 by miR-203 represents a potential regulatory mechanism that could be exploited for therapeutic purposes.
Cutting-edge approaches to investigate RASAL2's impact on RAS signaling and EGFR regulation:
Advanced Live-Cell Imaging Techniques:
FRET-based RAS activity biosensors to monitor real-time RAS activation
Fluorescently-tagged RASAL2 to track subcellular localization
Dual-color imaging to visualize RASAL2-EGFR co-localization patterns
Photoactivatable RAS proteins to study spatiotemporal regulation by RASAL2
Systems Biology Approaches:
Phosphoproteomics to capture global signaling changes upon RASAL2 modulation
Computational modeling of feedback loops in RAS-MAPK pathways
Network analysis to identify critical nodes influenced by RASAL2
Single-cell RNA-seq to capture heterogeneity in response to RASAL2 alteration
CRISPR-Based Functional Genomics:
CRISPR activation/interference for endogenous RASAL2 modulation
CRISPR screens to identify synthetic lethal interactions with RASAL2
Base editing to introduce specific RASAL2 mutations
CRISPR-mediated homology-directed repair for tagging endogenous RASAL2
Advanced Protein Interaction Analysis:
Proximity labeling (BioID, APEX) to identify RASAL2 interaction partners
Hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry to map interaction interfaces
Co-immunoprecipitation coupled with quantitative proteomics
In situ proximity ligation assays to visualize endogenous protein interactions
Translational Model Systems:
Patient-derived organoids with RASAL2 modifications
Humanized mouse models for testing targeted therapies
Ex vivo tissue slice cultures to maintain tumor microenvironment
Microfluidic "tumor-on-a-chip" models for drug response studies
Research has revealed that RASAL2-high TNBCs sustain basal RAS activity through suppression of negative feedback regulators SPRY1/2, together with EGFR upregulation . This altered signaling homeostasis creates a vulnerability to combined MEK1/2 and EGFR inhibition. These advanced methodologies can further elucidate the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon and identify additional therapeutic targets.
The evolving understanding of RASAL2 biology suggests several promising therapeutic directions:
Precision Medicine Applications:
Novel Drug Development Opportunities:
Combination Therapy Optimization:
Immunotherapy Integration:
Exploration of RASAL2's impact on tumor immune microenvironment
Development of combinatorial approaches with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Investigation of RASAL2's role in immunogenic cell death mechanisms
Potential for CAR-T approaches targeting RASAL2-regulated surface proteins
RNA Therapeutics Potential: