The antibody is versatile across multiple experimental techniques:
The FITC-conjugated antibody has been used to visualize RASSF3 in the cytoplasm and nucleus of human cancer cells, highlighting its role in signal transduction and chromatin organization .
RASSF3 interacts with Ras effectors (e.g., RalGDS, AF-6), modulating cellular processes like proliferation and apoptosis .
RASSF3 (Ras association domain-containing protein 3) is a member of the RASSF family of proteins that function as potential tumor suppressors and regulate various cellular processes. Unlike its more extensively studied family member RASSF1, which acts as a tumor suppressor and mediates death receptor-dependent apoptosis, RASSF3's specific functions are still being elucidated . Studying RASSF3 is important because it participates in signal transduction pathways and may be involved in tumor biology, cellular immunology, chromatin and nuclear signaling, and transcriptional regulation . Research on RASSF3 contributes to our understanding of Ras-mediated signaling networks and their implications in normal cellular function and disease states.
RASSF3 Antibody, FITC conjugated is a polyclonal antibody typically derived from rabbit hosts that recognizes human RASSF3 protein . The antibody is conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), a green fluorescent dye that enables direct visualization of the target protein in fluorescence-based applications. Key characteristics include:
Specificity: Recognizes human RASSF3 (some variants also react with mouse, rat, and other species)
Immunogen: Typically generated against recombinant human RASSF3 protein (2-109AA)
Clonality: Polyclonal (derived from multiple B cell lineages)
Storage conditions: Should be stored at -20°C or -80°C and repeated freeze-thaw cycles should be avoided
Buffer composition: Typically supplied in buffers containing preservatives like Proclin 300, with glycerol and PBS
RASSF3 Antibody, FITC conjugated is primarily designed for applications that benefit from direct fluorescence detection without the need for secondary antibodies. Based on available data, this antibody has been validated for:
ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): For quantitative detection of RASSF3 in solutions
Immunofluorescence (IF): Recommended dilutions typically range from 1:50 to 1:200 for cellular localization studies
While not explicitly validated for all applications, FITC-conjugated antibodies are generally suitable for:
Flow cytometry: For detecting RASSF3 expression in cell populations
Immunocytochemistry (ICC): For visualizing RASSF3 localization within cultured cells
The FITC conjugation eliminates the need for secondary antibody incubation steps, simplifying experimental workflows and reducing background in multi-color immunostaining .
RASSF3 belongs to the RASSF (Ras Association Domain Family) protein family but differs from other members in several ways:
Unlike RASSF1, which has been well-characterized as a mediator of death receptor-dependent apoptosis and inhibitor of cell cycle progression , RASSF3's specific mechanisms remain under investigation. While RASSF1 has been shown to interact with CDC20 and regulate the anaphase-promoting complex , similar detailed interaction networks are still being explored for RASSF3.
When designing a flow cytometry experiment with FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody, consider the following methodological approach:
Panel Design Considerations:
FITC emits in the green spectrum (~519 nm), so avoid fluorophores with significant spectral overlap like PE or GFP in your panel
If multiple markers need to be analyzed simultaneously, select complementary fluorophores like APC, PE-Cy7, or BV421 for other targets
Include appropriate isotype controls conjugated to FITC to assess non-specific binding
Sample Preparation Protocol:
For intracellular RASSF3 detection, use a fixation/permeabilization buffer compatible with FITC (avoid harsh detergents that might affect fluorescence)
Optimize cell concentration to 1×10^6 cells/100 μL for staining
Include a protein transport inhibitor if analyzing stimulation-dependent expression
Staining Procedure:
Begin with a titration experiment using different antibody concentrations (typically 1:50 to 1:200 dilutions)
Incubate cells with antibody for 30-45 minutes at 4°C in the dark
Wash cells thoroughly to remove unbound antibody
Analyze promptly or fix in 1-2% paraformaldehyde if analysis must be delayed
Analysis Strategy:
Set appropriate voltage for FITC channel using unstained and single-stained controls
Use fluorescence minus one (FMO) controls to set accurate gates
Consider using viability dyes in far-red channels to exclude dead cells, which can bind antibodies non-specifically
This methodological approach ensures reliable and reproducible detection of RASSF3 expression by flow cytometry while minimizing artifacts .
Optimizing fixation and permeabilization conditions is critical for successful RASSF3 immunofluorescence studies using FITC-conjugated antibodies:
Culture cells on glass coverslips or chamber slides to appropriate confluence
Wash cells gently with pre-warmed PBS (3×)
Fix cells using one of the following methods:
4% paraformaldehyde in PBS for 15 minutes at room temperature (preserves cell morphology)
Ice-cold methanol for 10 minutes at -20°C (better for certain epitopes and nuclear proteins)
Wash fixed cells with PBS (3×)
For paraformaldehyde-fixed cells:
0.1-0.2% Triton X-100 in PBS for 10 minutes at room temperature
Alternative: 0.5% Saponin in PBS (gentler and reversible permeabilization)
For methanol-fixed cells:
Additional permeabilization is typically unnecessary as methanol both fixes and permeabilizes
Block with 5% normal serum (from the species unrelated to the primary antibody host) in PBS with 0.1% Tween-20 for 1 hour at room temperature
Include 1% BSA in blocking buffer to reduce non-specific binding
Dilute FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody in blocking buffer (typical range 1:50-1:200)
Incubate overnight at 4°C or 2 hours at room temperature in a humidified chamber protected from light
Wash 3× with PBS-0.1% Tween-20
DAPI (blue) or propidium iodide (red) are recommended for nuclear visualization as they don't interfere with the FITC signal
This methodology maximizes signal-to-noise ratio while preserving the fluorescence properties of the FITC conjugate and the structural integrity of the target epitope.
Proper storage and handling of FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody is essential to maintain its immunoreactivity and fluorescence properties:
Aliquot the antibody upon receipt to minimize freeze-thaw cycles
Protect from light exposure using amber tubes or by wrapping containers in aluminum foil
Store reconstituted lyophilized antibodies at 2-4°C if they will be used within two weeks
Thaw frozen aliquots rapidly at room temperature and keep on ice after thawing
Centrifuge briefly before opening tubes to collect all liquid at the bottom
Use sterile technique when handling antibody solutions
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles as this can significantly reduce activity
FITC is sensitive to photobleaching; minimize exposure to light during handling and storage
The antibody is typically formulated in a buffer containing:
Avoid buffers containing high concentrations of primary amines that may interfere with FITC
Lyophilized antibody is stable at room temperature for at least one month
Reconstituted antibody is stable for at least two weeks at 2-4°C
Following these storage and handling guidelines will help maintain the antibody's performance and extend its useful life for research applications.
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for reliable research outcomes. For RASSF3 Antibody, FITC conjugated, implement these comprehensive validation strategies:
Positive and Negative Controls:
Use cell lines with known RASSF3 expression (positive control) and those with minimal expression (negative control)
Consider using RASSF3 knockout cell lines generated via CRISPR/Cas9 as definitive negative controls
Include Western blot analysis with unconjugated RASSF3 antibody to confirm the expected ~28 kDa molecular weight band
Peptide Competition Assay:
Pre-incubate the antibody with excess immunizing peptide (if available) before application to samples
Compare staining patterns between blocked and unblocked antibody
Specific staining should be significantly reduced or eliminated in the blocked sample
Orthogonal Validation:
Compare protein expression data with mRNA expression (qRT-PCR)
Use alternative RASSF3 antibodies from different manufacturers or raised against different epitopes
Compare results with published RASSF3 localization and expression patterns
Cross-Reactivity Assessment:
Fluorescence Controls for FITC Conjugate:
Use isotype control antibodies conjugated to FITC to assess non-specific binding
Include unstained samples to establish autofluorescence baseline
Check for signal persistence after photobleaching (true FITC signal should diminish)
By implementing these validation strategies, researchers can confidently establish the specificity of FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody for their particular experimental system and avoid potential misinterpretation of results.
Multi-color immunofluorescence studies require careful optimization to achieve clear signal separation and accurate co-localization analysis when using FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody:
Strategic Fluorophore Selection:
FITC emits maximally at ~519 nm (green), so pair with fluorophores that have minimal spectral overlap
Recommended combinations:
FITC (RASSF3) + DAPI (nuclei) + Cy5 (protein X)
FITC (RASSF3) + TRITC/Texas Red (protein Y) + Far-Red (protein Z)
Avoid PE, GFP, or other green-yellow fluorophores that have significant spectral overlap with FITC
Sequential Staining Protocol for Co-localization Studies:
For multiple primary antibodies from the same host species:
Apply FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody first
Block all available binding sites with excess unconjugated Fab fragments
Apply subsequent primary and secondary antibody pairs
For antibodies from different host species:
Apply all primary antibodies simultaneously
Apply species-specific secondary antibodies sequentially with washing steps
Advanced Microscopy Settings:
Use narrow bandpass filters to minimize bleed-through
Perform sequential scanning rather than simultaneous acquisition on confocal microscopes
Establish single-stained controls for spectral unmixing in case of overlap
Apply appropriate background subtraction for each channel independently
Optimized Antibody Dilutions for Multi-color Experiments:
Co-localization Analysis Methodology:
Apply rigorous co-localization metrics (Pearson's coefficient, Manders' overlap)
Use specialized software (ImageJ with JACoP plugin, Imaris, etc.) for quantitative co-localization analysis
Establish thresholds based on control samples
This methodological approach ensures optimal multi-color imaging with FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody while minimizing artifacts and producing reliable co-localization data.
Investigating RASSF3 across diverse cellular contexts and disease models requires tailored approaches:
Tissue-Specific Expression Considerations:
RASSF3 expression varies across tissues and cell types
Perform preliminary screening of RASSF3 expression in your model system using unconjugated antibodies for Western blot
Adjust antibody concentration based on expression level (higher dilutions for high-expressing tissues)
Consider subcellular localization differences, as RASSF3 may translocate between cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments depending on cellular context
Cancer Model Methodologies:
Compare RASSF3 expression between tumor and adjacent normal tissue
Correlate RASSF3 expression with tumor stage, grade, and patient outcome
Investigate potential roles in signal transduction pathways similar to RASSF1's tumor suppressor functions
Examine relationship to Ras-mediated signaling in oncogenic contexts
Protocol adaptation: Use antigen retrieval methods optimized for fixed tumor tissues
Stress Response and Signaling Pathway Analysis:
Monitor RASSF3 expression and localization changes following cellular stress
Design time-course experiments after pathway stimulation
Combine with phospho-specific antibodies for key signaling molecules
Consider proximity ligation assays to detect protein-protein interactions in situ
Developmental Biology Applications:
Analyze RASSF3 expression patterns during differentiation
Adjust fixation protocols for embryonic tissues (typically lower fixative concentrations)
Use thick-section confocal microscopy with appropriate controls
Disease-Specific Technical Considerations:
For neurodegenerative conditions: Optimize permeabilization for brain tissue (longer incubation)
For inflammatory diseases: Block Fc receptors thoroughly to prevent non-specific binding
For metabolic disorders: Consider lipid content when optimizing fixation protocols
Standardized Quantification Approach:
Develop consistent quantification methods for comparing RASSF3 expression
Use digital image analysis with standardized parameters
Include internal controls for normalization across different experimental conditions
This comprehensive approach enables meaningful comparison of RASSF3 expression and function across diverse experimental systems and disease contexts.
Researchers may encounter several technical challenges when using FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody. Here are common issues and their methodological solutions:
Weak or Absent Signal:
Cause: Insufficient antibody concentration, epitope masking, or protein degradation
Solutions:
High Background/Non-specific Staining:
Cause: Insufficient blocking, non-specific binding, or autofluorescence
Solutions:
Increase blocking time and concentration (try 5-10% normal serum)
Include 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 in wash buffers
Prepare more dilute antibody solution (try 1:200 instead of 1:50)
Include 1% BSA in antibody diluent
For tissues with high autofluorescence, pretreat with Sudan Black B or use spectrally distinct fluorophores
Photobleaching of FITC Signal:
Cause: Excessive light exposure degrading fluorophore
Solutions:
Minimize exposure to light during all procedures
Use anti-fade mounting media containing DABCO or n-propyl gallate
Capture images promptly after slide preparation
Consider using alternative more photostable fluorophores for extended imaging
Poor Reproducibility Between Experiments:
Cause: Variations in technique, reagents, or environmental factors
Solutions:
Standardize all protocol steps (timing, temperatures, reagent preparation)
Prepare master mixes for antibody dilutions
Process all experimental groups simultaneously
Document lot numbers of antibodies and reagents
Maintain consistent image acquisition settings
Cross-Reactivity with Other RASSF Family Members:
Cause: Antibody binding to homologous epitopes in related proteins
Solutions:
Flow Cytometry-Specific Issues:
Cause: Cell clumping, insufficient permeabilization for intracellular staining
Solutions:
Implementing these methodological approaches can significantly improve results when working with FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody.
Rigorous quantitative analysis of RASSF3 expression data requires standardized methodologies tailored to the experimental platform:
Immunofluorescence Microscopy Quantification:
Raw Data Collection Protocol:
Capture multiple representative fields (minimum 5-10) per sample
Use identical exposure settings across all experimental conditions
Include both positive and negative control samples in each imaging session
Image Analysis Methodology:
Use specialized software (ImageJ/Fiji, CellProfiler, or commercial platforms)
Apply consistent thresholding algorithms across all images
Measure parameters including:
Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI)
Integrated density (area × mean intensity)
Nuclear/cytoplasmic signal ratio
Percentage of positive cells
Normalize to internal controls (housekeeping proteins or DAPI)
Flow Cytometry Data Analysis:
Gating Strategy:
Exclude debris using FSC/SSC
Gate on single cells using pulse width or height vs. area
Apply viability dye exclusion gate
Establish positive/negative boundaries using FMO controls
Quantitative Metrics:
Percentage of RASSF3-positive cells
Median fluorescence intensity (MFI)
Calculate staining index: (MFI positive - MFI negative)/2 × SD of negative population
For heterogeneous populations, consider bimodal distribution analysis
Statistical Analysis Approach:
For Normal Distributions:
Apply parametric tests (t-test for two groups, ANOVA for multiple groups)
Report means with standard deviation or standard error
For Non-Normal Distributions:
Use non-parametric alternatives (Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis)
Report medians with interquartile ranges
Correlation Analysis:
Pearson's correlation for linear relationships
Spearman's rank for non-parametric correlations
Include scatter plots with regression lines
Standardized Reporting Format:
Include representative images alongside quantitative data
Present data in box plots or violin plots rather than bar graphs to show distribution
Report sample sizes, biological replicates, and technical replicates
Include appropriate statistical significance indicators
Normalize presentation scales consistently across comparison groups
Advanced Quantitative Approaches:
For co-localization studies: Calculate Pearson's coefficient, Manders' overlap coefficient
For expression kinetics: Apply regression analysis for time-course data
For heterogeneous samples: Consider single-cell analysis approaches
For large datasets: Apply machine learning algorithms for pattern recognition
Following these standardized quantitative analysis protocols ensures robust and reproducible interpretation of RASSF3 expression data from fluorescence-based experiments.
Fixation methods significantly impact RASSF3 epitope accessibility and FITC fluorescence properties. This comprehensive analysis outlines how different fixation approaches affect RASSF3 detection:
Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Fixation Effects:
Mechanism: Forms methylene bridges between proteins, preserving cellular architecture
Impact on RASSF3 Detection:
Maintains structural integrity but may mask some epitopes
Optimal concentration: 2-4% in PBS for 10-15 minutes at room temperature
Preserves FITC fluorescence well
Requires subsequent permeabilization for intracellular targets
Recommended Protocol Modifications:
Add 0.1-0.2% Triton X-100 post-fixation for optimal epitope access
Include antigen retrieval step (sodium citrate buffer, pH 6.0) for formalin-fixed tissues
PFA is preferred for localization studies due to superior structural preservation
Methanol/Acetone Fixation Effects:
Mechanism: Dehydrates cells and precipitates proteins, disrupting membrane structures
Impact on RASSF3 Detection:
Often enhances accessibility to nuclear and cytoskeletal epitopes
May alter conformation of some protein domains
Can extract lipids and small proteins
Combined methanol:acetone (1:1) at -20°C for 10 minutes often works well
Recommended Protocol Modifications:
Glutaraldehyde Fixation Effects:
Mechanism: Forms stronger crosslinks than PFA
Impact on RASSF3 Detection:
Often masks epitopes more severely than PFA
Introduces significant autofluorescence in the FITC channel
Not recommended as primary fixative for FITC-RASSF3 antibody applications
Recommended Protocol Modifications:
If required for ultrastructural studies, use low concentrations (0.1-0.5%)
Quench with glycine or sodium borohydride post-fixation
Extend antibody incubation times
Comparative Analysis of Fixation Methods for RASSF3 Detection:
| Fixation Method | Epitope Preservation | Signal Intensity | Background | Subcellular Detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4% PFA | Good | ++++ | Low | Excellent |
| Methanol (-20°C) | Variable | +++ | Very low | Good for nuclear |
| Methanol:Acetone | Variable | ++++ | Low | Good |
| 0.5% Glutaraldehyde | Poor | + | High | Excellent |
| Unfixed (Live) | Excellent | ++ | Variable | Limited to surface |
Fixation-Specific Technical Recommendations:
For multi-parameter studies: Use 4% PFA with Triton X-100 permeabilization
For nuclear RASSF3 studies: Consider methanol fixation
For cytoskeletal association studies: Use methanol:acetone mixture
For co-localization with membrane proteins: Use gentle PFA fixation (2%)
For flow cytometry: BD Cytofix/Cytoperm or similar commercial formulations optimize both fixation and permeabilization
Understanding these fixation-dependent effects allows researchers to select the most appropriate method for their specific RASSF3 investigation and optimize detection protocols accordingly.
Incorporating FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody into high-throughput and automated imaging systems requires specialized optimization strategies:
Adaptation for High-Content Screening Platforms:
Protocol Optimization:
Standardize all reagents in automation-compatible formats
Develop fixed incubation times optimized for robotic liquid handlers
Create positive and negative controls for each plate
Establish Z-factor values >0.5 for assay validation
Technical Modifications:
Microfluidic-Based Immunostaining Approaches:
Methodology:
Reduce antibody volumes to nanoliter ranges
Decrease incubation times through continuous perfusion
Optimize flow rates to prevent shear stress while ensuring reagent delivery
System-Specific Considerations:
Prevent FITC photobleaching with reduced light exposure systems
Select microfluidic chip materials with minimal autofluorescence
Implement on-chip controls for quality assessment
Machine Learning Integration for Image Analysis:
Training Dataset Development:
Create annotated ground-truth images for algorithm training
Include diverse RASSF3 expression patterns and localizations
Develop classification systems for subcellular distribution patterns
Analytical Approaches:
Implement segmentation algorithms for cellular/subcellular compartments
Develop multiparametric analysis pipelines that correlate RASSF3 with other markers
Use unsupervised clustering to identify novel RASSF3 expression patterns
Automated Quality Control Measures:
Critical Parameters to Monitor:
Signal-to-noise ratio thresholds for each imaging field
Coefficient of variation across technical replicates
Background fluorescence in negative control regions
Cell count and morphology metrics for sample quality
Implementation Strategy:
Establish automated exclusion criteria for suboptimal fields
Incorporate internal calibration standards on each plate
Program automated feedback loops for acquisition settings
Integration with Multi-Omics Data:
Correlation Methodologies:
Link imaging data with transcriptomics through spatial registration
Correlate RASSF3 protein expression with RNA-seq data
Integrate with phosphoproteomics to map RASSF3 signaling networks
Data Management:
Develop standardized metadata formats for cross-platform integration
Implement cloud-based storage solutions for large image datasets
Create bioinformatic pipelines for integrated data analysis
These methodological approaches facilitate the integration of FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibody into modern high-throughput imaging workflows, enabling large-scale studies of RASSF3 biology across diverse experimental conditions.
Recent research on RASSF3 has revealed several important functional insights that should inform experimental design when using FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibodies:
Tumor Suppressor Functions:
Research Findings: Similar to RASSF1, RASSF3 may function as a tumor suppressor in certain contexts
Experimental Design Implications:
Include cancer cell lines with varying RASSF3 expression levels
Design experiments comparing normal and transformed cells
Consider co-staining with markers of apoptosis or cell cycle regulation
Develop time-course experiments after apoptotic stimuli
Signal Transduction Pathway Involvement:
Research Findings: RASSF3 participates in signal transduction pathways, potentially interacting with Ras proteins
Experimental Design Implications:
Incorporate co-immunoprecipitation studies with Ras proteins
Design stimulus-response experiments activating Ras pathways
Include inhibitors of key signaling molecules in experimental protocols
Consider phosphorylation state of RASSF3 after pathway activation
Nuclear Localization and Transcriptional Regulation:
Research Findings: RASSF3 may translocate to the nucleus and influence transcriptional processes
Experimental Design Implications:
Optimize nuclear/cytoplasmic fractionation protocols
Design high-resolution imaging experiments to detect nuclear translocation
Include co-staining with transcription factors or chromatin marks
Develop reporter assays for transcriptional activity
Post-Translational Modifications:
Research Findings: RASSF proteins undergo phosphorylation and other modifications affecting function
Experimental Design Implications:
Consider phosphatase inhibitors in lysis buffers
Develop protocols sensitive to various RASSF3 modified forms
Include stimuli known to induce protein modifications
Consider targeted mass spectrometry approaches to identify modification sites
Protein-Protein Interactions:
Research Findings: RASSF3 likely functions through specific protein interactors
Experimental Design Implications:
Incorporate proximity ligation assays for in situ interaction detection
Design co-localization studies with suspected interaction partners
Consider FRET-based approaches for direct interaction measurement
Include controls for specificity of interactions
Evolutionary Conservation:
These research-based considerations should guide experimental design to maximize the informative value of studies using FITC-conjugated RASSF3 antibodies, enabling researchers to address current knowledge gaps and contribute to the understanding of RASSF3 biology.