zgc:110179 Antibody is a research immunoglobulin developed specifically to target the protein product of the zebrafish gene formerly designated as zgc:110179, now officially known as rasl11a (RAS-like, family 11, member A). This antibody serves as a crucial tool for detecting and studying the RASL11A protein in zebrafish models, enabling researchers to investigate its expression patterns, subcellular localization, and biological functions . The antibody belongs to a specialized category of research reagents used in zebrafish studies, providing valuable insights into developmental biology, genetics, and comparative vertebrate research.
The RASL11A protein in zebrafish is predicted to enable G protein activity and GTP binding, consistent with its membership in the RAS protein family . It is predicted to be involved in the positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase I and is likely located in the nucleolus within cells . This suggests roles in ribosomal DNA transcription regulation, similar to its human ortholog.
Expression studies reveal that the rasl11a gene is expressed in several structures during zebrafish development, including:
The expression pattern indicates potential roles in developmental processes, particularly in head and nervous system formation. The presence of expression in the musculature system also suggests possible functions in muscle development or physiology.
zgc:110179 Antibodies are available in several formats targeting different regions of the RASL11A protein. Commercial suppliers offer antibodies specifically designed for research applications:
| Antibody Type | Target Region | Host | Format | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X-Q6IQF0-N | N-terminus | Mouse | Monoclonal Combination | ELISA, WB |
| X-Q6IQF0-C | C-terminus | Mouse | Monoclonal Combination | ELISA, WB |
| X-Q6IQF0-M | Middle region | Mouse | Monoclonal Combination | ELISA, WB |
Table 2: Available formats of zgc:110179 Antibodies
These antibodies are typically supplied as combinations of monoclonal antibodies against synthetic peptide antigens representing different regions of the target protein . The ELISA titer for these antibodies is typically around 10,000, which corresponds to approximately 1 ng detection sensitivity of the target protein on Western blot applications .
The zgc:110179 Antibody demonstrates specific reactivity profiles important for research applications:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Reactivity | Primarily zebrafish (Danio rerio) |
| Cross-reactivity | Limited cross-reactivity with orthologs |
| Clonality | Both monoclonal and polyclonal versions available |
| Conjugation | Typically unconjugated formats |
| Applications | Western Blot (WB), ELISA |
| Host Species | Mouse, Rabbit |
Table 3: Characteristics of zgc:110179 Antibodies
Polyclonal antibodies against the zebrafish RASL11A protein show 92% predicted reactivity with the zebrafish target . It's notable that while human RASL11A antibodies may show some cross-reactivity with zebrafish RASL11A due to sequence conservation, the zgc:110179 antibody is specifically designed for optimal reactivity with the zebrafish protein.
The zgc:110179 Antibody has several important applications in zebrafish research:
Protein Expression Studies: The antibody allows researchers to detect and quantify RASL11A protein expression in various tissues and developmental stages of zebrafish.
Developmental Biology Research: Given the expression pattern of rasl11a in structures like the anterior axial hypoblast and head mesenchyme, the antibody can be used to study protein localization during development .
Comparative Studies: The antibody enables comparison of RASL11A expression and function between zebrafish and other vertebrates, providing insights into evolutionary conservation.
Regeneration Research: Zebrafish are known for their regenerative capabilities, particularly in fin regeneration. The zgc:110179 Antibody could potentially be used in studies examining the role of RASL11A in regenerative processes .
The zgc:110179 Antibody has been validated for specific laboratory techniques:
| Technique | Application | Detection Limit | Validated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Blotting | Protein detection | ~1 ng | Yes |
| ELISA | Quantitative measurement | Based on titer (~10,000) | Yes |
| Immunohistochemistry | Tissue localization | Not fully validated | Limited data |
Table 4: Experimental techniques using zgc:110179 Antibody
Western blotting represents one of the primary applications for this antibody, allowing researchers to detect the RASL11A protein in zebrafish tissue lysates with high specificity. The antibody's high ELISA titer indicates strong binding affinity to its target epitope, enabling sensitive detection of the protein .
When selecting a zgc:110179 Antibody for research, several factors should be considered:
Target Region: Depending on the research question, antibodies targeting different regions (N-terminus, C-terminus, or middle region) may be preferred .
Application Compatibility: Ensure the selected antibody has been validated for the intended application (Western blot, ELISA, etc.) .
Clonality: Consider whether polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies are more appropriate for the specific experiment.
Sensitivity Requirements: Evaluate the detection limit needed for the experiment and select an antibody with appropriate sensitivity.
Optimal working conditions for zgc:110179 Antibody vary by application but typically include:
| Parameter | Western Blot | ELISA |
|---|---|---|
| Dilution | 1:500 to 1:2000 | 1:1000 to 1:10000 |
| Incubation Temperature | 4°C | Room temperature |
| Incubation Time | Overnight | 1-2 hours |
| Blocking Agent | 5% non-fat milk | 1-3% BSA |
| Detection Method | HRP-conjugated secondary antibody | Appropriate to antibody format |
Table 5: Recommended experimental conditions for zgc:110179 Antibody applications
It's important to note that optimal working dilutions should be determined experimentally by the investigator for each specific application and research context .
The zebrafish RASL11A protein shares significant homology with human RASL11A, making comparative studies valuable:
| Feature | Zebrafish RASL11A | Human RASL11A |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 255 amino acids | 242 amino acids |
| Subcellular Localization | Nucleolus (predicted) | Nucleus |
| Function | Predicted G protein activity and GTP binding | Regulator of rDNA transcription |
| Expression | Tissue-specific during development | Widely expressed across many tissues |
Table 6: Comparison between zebrafish and human RASL11A proteins
The conservation between zebrafish and human RASL11A proteins highlights the evolutionary importance of this protein and its functions. The human RASL11A is reported to be a regulator of ribosomal DNA transcription , and similar functions are predicted for the zebrafish ortholog, making it an interesting target for comparative studies between species.
The zgc:110179 Antibody holds significant potential for future zebrafish research in several areas:
Developmental Studies: Further investigation into the role of RASL11A during zebrafish embryonic development, particularly in the structures where it's expressed.
Regeneration Research: Exploration of potential roles in zebrafish regeneration processes, which could provide insights relevant to regenerative medicine.
Signaling Pathway Analysis: Investigation of RASL11A's role in GTP-dependent signaling pathways and transcriptional regulation.
Comparative Biology: Studies comparing the function and regulation of RASL11A across vertebrate species, from fish to mammals.
These research directions may benefit from improved antibody tools, including development of additional formats such as fluorescently conjugated antibodies for immunofluorescence applications, or phospho-specific antibodies if the protein undergoes relevant post-translational modifications.
Zgc:110179 refers to a specific zebrafish protein identified through gene cloning projects. Like other zebrafish gene clone (zgc) proteins such as zgc:110339, zgc:110179 represents a protein of interest in developmental biology research . The amino acid sequence structure and protein characteristics determine its molecular function within zebrafish biological systems.
Zebrafish proteins are significant in developmental biology as model systems due to:
Transparent embryos allowing direct visualization
Rapid development timeline
Genetic homology with human proteins
Accessibility for genetic manipulation
Antibodies against these proteins enable quantification and localization studies across developmental stages, providing insights into protein expression patterns and functional roles.
Generation of research-grade antibodies against zebrafish proteins typically follows a rigorous process similar to that used for zgc:110339, involving:
Sequence analysis and epitope selection from different protein regions (N-terminus, C-terminus, and middle/non-terminus)
Synthesis of peptide antigens representing these regions
Immunization protocols in mice to generate monoclonal antibodies
Screening and selection of antibody-producing hybridoma clones
Characterization via ELISA to confirm binding specificity and affinity
For research applications, combinations of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting multiple epitopes are often provided as antibody cocktails to enhance detection sensitivity . These combinations can later be deconvoluted into individual monoclonals if more specific epitope targeting is required.
Based on the characteristics of similar zebrafish antibodies, zgc:110179 antibodies are suitable for multiple experimental approaches:
| Application | Detection Method | Typical Dilution Range | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Blotting | Chemiluminescence/Fluorescence | 1:1,000-1:10,000 | Detects denatured protein; quantifiable |
| Immunohistochemistry | Chromogenic/Fluorescent | 1:100-1:500 | Preserves tissue architecture; localization studies |
| ELISA | Colorimetric/Fluorometric | 1:5,000-1:20,000 | High sensitivity quantification |
| Immunoprecipitation | Varied | 1:50-1:200 | Protein-protein interaction studies |
| Flow Cytometry | Fluorescence | 1:100-1:500 | Single-cell analysis |
ELISA titers for similar antibodies typically reach approximately 10,000, corresponding to detection sensitivity of approximately 1 ng of target protein on Western blots .
Rigorous experimental design requires multiple controls to ensure specificity and reliability:
Positive controls:
Known samples expressing zgc:110179
Recombinant zgc:110179 protein
Negative controls:
Samples known not to express the target (different developmental stages)
Secondary antibody-only controls
Isotype controls with matched non-specific antibodies
Validation controls:
Peptide competition assays (pre-incubating antibody with immunizing peptide)
Knockout/knockdown models where zgc:110179 expression is eliminated
Gradient dilution series to establish detection limits
The experimental design should incorporate these controls systematically to distinguish specific signal from background or cross-reactivity.
Antibody validation requires a multi-method approach to ensure experimental reliability:
Recommended Validation Protocol:
Genetic validation:
Testing in CRISPR/Cas9 knockout models
Morpholino knockdown with dose-dependent validation
Analysis in genetically diverse zebrafish strains
Biochemical validation:
Mass spectrometry identification of immunoprecipitated proteins
Western blot analysis for single-band specificity
Peptide array screening for epitope mapping
Orthogonal method correlation:
mRNA expression (RT-PCR/RNA-seq) correlation with protein detection
Fluorescent protein fusion localization comparison
Multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes
Similar to approaches used in validating Zika virus antibodies like ZK2B10, next-generation sequencing can provide detailed analysis of antibody specificity and help identify potential cross-reactivity .
Detection of low-abundance proteins requires specialized techniques:
Signal amplification strategies:
Tyramide signal amplification (TSA) for immunofluorescence (10-50× signal enhancement)
Poly-HRP detection systems for Western blotting
Rolling circle amplification for extreme sensitivity requirements
Sample preparation optimization:
Subcellular fractionation to concentrate compartmentalized protein
Optimized lysis buffers with appropriate detergents
Sample enrichment via immunoprecipitation prior to detection
Protocol modifications for enhanced sensitivity:
| Challenge | Methodological Solution | Expected Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Weak signal in IHC | Heat-induced epitope retrieval optimization | 2-5× signal enhancement |
| Low detection in WB | Extended transfer times for high MW proteins | Improved transfer efficiency |
| High background | Sequential blocking with multiple blocking agents | Improved signal-to-noise ratio |
| Developmental stage-specific expression | Timed embryo collection with precise staging | Detection of transient expression |
Advanced detection systems:
Near-infrared fluorescent secondary antibodies
Quantum dot conjugates for photostable detection
Enzyme-labeled fluorescence (ELF) for ultrasensitive detection
These approaches can be particularly valuable when studying proteins with developmental stage-specific or tissue-restricted expression patterns.
Understanding protein dynamics requires specialized approaches:
Temporal expression analysis:
Time-course immunoblotting across developmental stages
Pulse-chase experiments to determine protein half-life
Heat shock inducible systems for controlled expression
Protein interaction studies:
Co-immunoprecipitation with putative interaction partners
Proximity ligation assay (PLA) for in situ interaction detection
FRET/BRET approaches for direct interaction measurement
BioID or APEX proximity labeling for interaction networks
Post-translational modification analysis:
Phospho-specific antibody generation
2D gel electrophoresis for modification-induced mobility shifts
Mass spectrometry for comprehensive PTM mapping
Subcellular trafficking studies:
Live imaging with complementary fluorescent protein fusions
Photoactivatable or photoconvertible tagging
Correlative light and electron microscopy for ultrastructural localization
These approaches can reveal not only where and when zgc:110179 is expressed but also provide insights into its functional roles through its interaction partners and dynamic behavior.
Quantitative analysis requires careful experimental design and statistical approaches:
Experimental design considerations:
Power analysis to determine appropriate sample sizes
Randomized sampling strategies to prevent selection bias
Blinded analysis to prevent observer bias
Technical and biological replicates to assess variability
Quantification methods:
Standard curve generation using recombinant proteins
Internal loading controls appropriate for developmental context
Digital image analysis with validated algorithms
Statistical approach selection:
| Experimental Question | Recommended Statistical Method | Required Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Developmental time course | Mixed-effects models | Minimum 3 biological replicates per timepoint |
| Treatment effects | ANOVA with appropriate post-hoc tests | Determined by power analysis (typically n≥5) |
| Tissue-specific expression | Non-parametric tests for non-normal distributions | 5-7 biological replicates |
| Correlation with phenotype | Regression analysis with appropriate controls | Dependent on effect size (typically n≥10) |
Normalization strategies:
Identification of stable reference proteins across conditions
Total protein normalization methods (REVERT, Ponceau)
Tissue-specific and developmental stage-specific reference genes
Similar to approaches used in panel data experimental design, proper statistical power calculations are essential for designing well-powered experiments .
Systematic troubleshooting should follow this structured approach:
Antibody factors:
Storage conditions (aliquoting, temperature, freeze-thaw cycles)
Lot-to-lot variation (parallel testing of different lots)
Antibody concentration and integrity verification
Sample preparation variables:
Fixation protocol standardization (time, temperature, buffer composition)
Antigen retrieval optimization (pH, time, temperature)
Developmental staging accuracy and consistency
Protocol optimization:
| Issue | Troubleshooting Approach | Evaluation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Non-specific binding | Titration series of primary antibody | Signal-to-noise ratio measurement |
| High background | Alternative blocking agents (BSA, serum, commercial blockers) | Background quantification in negative controls |
| Weak or absent signal | Epitope retrieval method comparison | Positive control signal measurement |
| Inconsistent results | Standardized protocol with controlled incubation conditions | Coefficient of variation across replicates |
Environmental and handling factors:
Temperature and humidity monitoring during incubations
Light exposure minimization for fluorescent detection methods
Consistent handling practices across experiments
Systematic documentation of all parameters across experiments facilitates identification of critical variables affecting antibody performance.
Advanced imaging technologies enable deeper insights into protein localization and dynamics:
Super-resolution microscopy options:
Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) microscopy (70-90nm resolution)
Photoactivated Localization Microscopy (PALM) (20-30nm resolution)
Structured Illumination Microscopy (SIM) (100-120nm resolution)
Live imaging approaches:
Light sheet fluorescence microscopy for whole-embryo imaging
Spinning disk confocal for rapid acquisition and reduced phototoxicity
Two-photon microscopy for deep tissue penetration
Advanced computational analysis:
Machine learning-based segmentation for automated quantification
3D reconstruction and rendering for volumetric analysis
Colocalization analysis with proper statistical testing
Multiplexed imaging strategies:
Sequential imaging with antibody stripping/reprobing
Spectral unmixing for simultaneous multi-protein detection
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) or imaging mass cytometry for highly multiplexed analysis
These approaches can be combined with genetic manipulation strategies to provide functional context to protein localization observations.
Integrated research strategies place protein expression in wider biological context:
Multi-omics integration:
Correlation with transcriptomics data (RNA-seq, microarray)
Integration with proteomics datasets (mass spectrometry)
Network analysis with interactome data
Functional genomics approaches:
CRISPR screens to identify genetic interactors
Chemical genetics to probe pathway relationships
Suppressors/enhancers screening in genetic backgrounds
Evolutionary analysis:
Cross-species antibody reactivity testing
Comparative expression studies across related species
Structure-function analysis of conserved domains
Pathway analysis:
Perturbation studies with specific pathway inhibitors
Epistasis experiments to establish pathway position
Mathematical modeling of pathway dynamics
Similar to approaches used in the study of protective antibody responses against Zika virus, longitudinal sampling and next-generation sequencing analysis can provide insights into developmental regulation and functional roles .
Genetic manipulation introduces additional experimental variables:
Knockout/knockdown validation:
Verification of complete protein loss in null mutants
Quantification of knockdown efficiency in morphants/CRISPants
Monitoring for compensatory mechanisms
Tagged protein considerations:
Verification that tags don't interfere with protein function
Comparison of tagged protein localization with antibody staining
Assessment of expression levels relative to endogenous protein
Rescue experiment design:
Titration of rescue construct expression levels
Temporal control of rescue expression
Domain-specific mutations to assess structure-function relationships
Experimental controls for genetic studies:
| Genetic Approach | Essential Controls | Validation Method |
|---|---|---|
| CRISPR/Cas9 knockout | Off-target analysis, multiple guide RNAs | Sequencing, antibody staining |
| Morpholino knockdown | Specificity controls, rescue experiments | RT-PCR, Western blot |
| Overexpression | Dosage series, inactive mutant controls | Quantitative immunostaining |
| Conditional expression | Leakiness controls, induction efficiency | Timed immunoblotting |
Combining antibody detection with these genetic approaches provides powerful tools for understanding protein function in developmental contexts.