The SDR39U1 protein, encoded by the SDR39U1 gene (NCBI Gene ID: 56948), belongs to the short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) superfamily but exhibits greater sequence similarity to sugar epimerases . It exists in three isoforms (35 kDa, 31 kDa, 21 kDa) due to alternative splicing . The protein is involved in metabolic pathways, potentially influencing carbohydrate or lipid metabolism, though its exact cellular function remains under investigation.
Proteintech antibodies are recommended at 1:500–1:1000 dilution for WB, with positive detection in human adrenal gland tissue .
Sample-dependent optimization is advised due to variable expression levels .
Novus Biologicals’ antibody is validated at 0.25–2 μg/mL for IF, enabling subcellular localization studies .
Sigma’s Prestige Antibody (HPA044294) is also compatible with IF at 0.25–2 μg/mL .
Sigma’s antibody is tested at 1:200–1:500 dilution for IHC, with tissue array validation across normal and cancerous samples .
SDR39U1 is expressed in diverse tissues, including adrenal gland, liver, and brain, based on TISSUES Experimental and Text-mining datasets .
It exhibits functional associations with 8 biological categories, including metabolic pathways (e.g., lipid and carbohydrate metabolism) and disease-related processes .
Alternative splicing generates three isoforms (35 kDa, 31 kDa, 21 kDa), with the 35 kDa form being the most studied due to its reactivity with commercial antibodies .
SDR39U1 (Short chain dehydrogenase/reductase family 39U, member 1) is an epimerase family protein also known as C14orf124 or HCDI. It shares greater sequence similarity with the sugar epimerase family than with the short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDR) family . The protein consists of 185 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of approximately 35 kDa . SDR39U1 has three isoforms produced by alternative splicing with molecular weights of 35 kDa, 31 kDa, and 21 kDa . The protein sequence includes characteristic motifs associated with epimerase activity, as evident in its full amino acid sequence: MAYYQPSLTAEYDEDSPGGDFDFFSNLVTKWEAAARLPGDSTRQVVVRSGVVLGRGGGAMGHMLLPFRLGLGGPIGSGHQFFPWIHIGDLAGILTHALEANHVHGVLNGVAPSSATNAEFAQTLGAALGRRAFIPLPSAVVQAVFGRQRAIMLLEGQKVIPQRTLATGYQYSFPELGAALKEIVA .
Multiple SDR39U1 antibodies are available from various providers, targeting different epitopes and designed for specific applications. The table below summarizes key antibody types:
| Antibody Type | Provider | Catalog Number | Host/Class | Target Region | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monoclonal Combination | Abmart | X-Q86TZ5-N | Mouse | N-terminus | WB, ELISA |
| Monoclonal Combination | Abmart | X-Q86TZ5-C | Mouse | C-terminus | WB, ELISA |
| Monoclonal Combination | Abmart | X-Q86TZ5-M | Mouse | Middle region | WB, ELISA |
| Polyclonal | Proteintech | 16585-1-AP | Rabbit | Full protein | WB, ELISA |
| Polyclonal | Invitrogen | PA5-60668 | Not specified | Not specified | ICC, IHC |
| Polyclonal | Sigma-Aldrich | HPA044294 | Rabbit | Middle region | IF, IHC |
For long-term stability and activity preservation of SDR39U1 antibodies, specific storage conditions must be followed. Most SDR39U1 antibodies should be stored at -20°C, where they typically remain stable for one year after shipment . Many are supplied in storage buffers containing PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 50% glycerol at pH 7.3 to maintain stability . For antibodies supplied in smaller volumes (e.g., 20 µL), formulations may contain 0.1% BSA as an additional stabilizing agent .
It's important to note that aliquoting is generally unnecessary for -20°C storage of these antibodies, which simplifies handling procedures . For shipping purposes, wet ice is typically used . When retrieving antibodies from storage, avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles as these can degrade antibody quality and reduce binding efficiency. Allow antibodies to equilibrate to room temperature before opening vials to prevent condensation that could introduce contamination or dilute the antibody solution.
Dilution ratios for SDR39U1 antibodies vary significantly based on the specific application, antibody type, and target tissue. Based on experimental validation data, the following application-specific dilutions are recommended:
| Application | Antibody | Recommended Dilution | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Blot (WB) | Proteintech 16585-1-AP | 1:500-1:1000 | Validated in human adrenal gland tissue |
| Immunohistochemistry (IHC) | Sigma HPA044294 | 1:200-1:500 | For formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues |
| Immunofluorescence (IF) | Sigma HPA044294 | 0.25-2 µg/mL | For cultured cells or frozen tissues |
| ELISA | Abmart monoclonal combinations | Up to 1:10,000 | Corresponds to ~1 ng detection |
These dilutions should be considered starting points, and researchers should optimize dilutions for their specific experimental systems . The optimization process should include positive and negative controls to determine signal-to-noise ratios. For challenging tissues or cell types, preliminary titration experiments with serial dilutions ranging from 1:100 to 1:2000 can help identify optimal concentrations that maximize specific signal while minimizing background.
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for reliable results. For SDR39U1 antibodies, implement multiple complementary validation strategies:
Western blot analysis: Look for a predominant band at 35 kDa (main isoform), with possible additional bands at 31 kDa and 21 kDa representing alternative splice variants . Validation should include:
Positive control tissues known to express SDR39U1 (e.g., human adrenal gland)
Negative control tissues with minimal expression
Blocking peptide competition to confirm specificity
RNA interference: Transfect cells with SDR39U1-specific siRNA and verify reduced signal with the antibody compared to non-targeting siRNA controls. This approach confirms that the antibody detects the intended target.
Recombinant expression: Overexpress tagged SDR39U1 in cell lines with low endogenous expression and verify co-localization of antibody signal with the tag-specific antibody.
Immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry: This confirms that the antibody captures the intended protein rather than cross-reactive species.
Multiple antibody validation: Use different antibodies targeting distinct epitopes of SDR39U1 (e.g., N-terminal, C-terminal, and middle region antibodies) and verify consistent results across methods.
When documenting validation results, include complete methodology, positive and negative controls, and quantitative assessments of specificity to ensure reproducibility.
SDR39U1 exists in three isoforms (35 kDa, 31 kDa, and 21 kDa) produced by alternative splicing , requiring specific protocol adjustments for effective detection:
Antibody selection: Choose antibodies that target conserved regions present in all isoforms for pan-isoform detection, or epitope-specific antibodies for selective isoform identification. For example:
Gel resolution optimization: For Western blotting, use 12-15% polyacrylamide gels for better separation of closely sized isoforms (35 kDa vs. 31 kDa).
Extended running time: Increase electrophoresis duration by 20-30% to enhance separation between the 31 kDa and 35 kDa bands.
Two-dimensional electrophoresis: For complex samples, consider 2D-PAGE to separate isoforms that differ in isoelectric point as well as molecular weight.
RT-PCR verification: Design primers that can distinguish between splice variants and perform RT-PCR alongside protein detection to correlate RNA and protein expression patterns.
Enrichment strategies: For low-abundance isoforms, consider immunoprecipitation with isoform-specific antibodies before Western blotting to increase detection sensitivity.
When reporting results, clearly document which isoforms were detected and include molecular weight markers to facilitate interpretation.
High background in immunohistochemistry with SDR39U1 antibodies can arise from various sources. The following table outlines common causes and their solutions:
For particularly challenging samples, consider modifying antigen retrieval methods. For SDR39U1 detection, compare heat-induced epitope retrieval using citrate buffer (pH 6.0) versus EDTA buffer (pH 9.0) to determine optimal conditions. Additionally, reducing primary antibody incubation temperature from room temperature to 4°C while extending incubation time can improve signal-to-noise ratio.
Western blot analysis of SDR39U1 may reveal complex band patterns beyond the expected 35 kDa, 31 kDa, and 21 kDa isoforms . These can result from various biological and technical factors:
Post-translational modifications: Higher molecular weight bands may indicate phosphorylation, glycosylation, or ubiquitination. Verify with:
Phosphatase treatment (for phosphorylation)
Glycosidase treatment (for glycosylation)
Immunoprecipitation followed by modification-specific antibodies
Protein complexes: If sample preparation is not fully denaturing, SDR39U1 may remain in protein complexes. To resolve:
Increase SDS concentration to 2% in sample buffer
Extend boiling time to 10 minutes
Add reducing agents like DTT (10 mM)
Proteolytic degradation: Lower-than-expected molecular weight bands may indicate sample degradation. Prevent by:
Adding fresh protease inhibitors during extraction
Maintaining samples at 4°C throughout preparation
Avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Cross-reactivity: Bands at unexpected molecular weights may represent cross-reactivity with related proteins. Address by:
Performing peptide competition assays
Using alternative antibodies targeting different epitopes
Confirming results with knockout/knockdown controls
Isoform-specific expression: Different tissues may express varying ratios of the three known isoforms. Document tissue-specific expression patterns systematically across multiple samples.
When unexpected band patterns persist despite troubleshooting, consider mass spectrometry analysis of the corresponding gel regions to identify the proteins definitively.
Multiplex immunofluorescence with SDR39U1 antibodies requires careful optimization to maintain specificity while enabling co-detection of interaction partners. Implement the following strategies:
Antibody compatibility assessment:
Sequential immunostaining protocol:
Fluorophore selection for optimal spectral separation:
Use fluorophores with minimal spectral overlap (e.g., FITC for SDR39U1, Cy3 for first interaction partner, Cy5 for second interaction partner)
Include single-color controls to establish spectral unmixing parameters
Consider using quantum dots for narrow emission spectra if available
Image acquisition optimization:
Apply sequential scanning rather than simultaneous acquisition
Set exposure times individually for each channel to balance signal intensities
Use appropriate negative controls to set threshold values
Colocalization analysis:
Calculate Pearson's or Mander's coefficients to quantify spatial overlap
Implement proximity ligation assay (PLA) to verify direct protein interactions within 40 nm
Use deconvolution algorithms to improve spatial resolution before colocalization analysis
These approaches can reveal SDR39U1's subcellular localization patterns and potential interaction partners in different tissue contexts, providing insights into its functional roles.
Although SDR39U1 is not a known transcription factor, investigating its potential chromatin associations requires special considerations when adapting antibodies for ChIP applications:
Antibody validation for ChIP compatibility:
Crosslinking optimization:
Start with standard 1% formaldehyde for 10 minutes
Consider dual crosslinking with additional DSG (disuccinimidyl glutarate) for more transient interactions
Test multiple chromatin fragmentation methods (sonication vs. enzymatic digestion)
Protocol adaptation:
Increase antibody amounts (5-10 μg per reaction) compared to standard IP
Extend incubation times (overnight at 4°C) to improve capture efficiency
Include additives like BSA (0.5%) and non-ionic detergents to reduce background
Stringent controls:
Use IgG from the same species as the SDR39U1 antibody for negative controls
Include input controls at multiple concentrations
Perform SDR39U1 knockdown controls to confirm specificity of enrichment
Downstream analysis considerations:
Start with qPCR analysis of regions of interest before proceeding to sequencing
For ChIP-seq, prepare biological replicates and perform correlation analysis
Consider spike-in normalization for quantitative comparisons
If SDR39U1 is found to associate with chromatin, these studies could reveal unexpected regulatory functions beyond its known enzymatic role in carbohydrate metabolism, potentially expanding understanding of its cellular functions.
IP-MS with SDR39U1 antibodies can uncover previously unknown protein interactions by following these methodological guidelines:
Antibody selection criteria:
Lysis buffer optimization:
Test multiple lysis conditions:
Stringent: RIPA buffer (high detergent, disrupts weaker interactions)
Moderate: NP-40 buffer (preserves most protein complexes)
Mild: Digitonin buffer (maintains membrane-associated complexes)
Include phosphatase inhibitors to preserve modification-dependent interactions
Consider crosslinking agents for transient interactions
IP protocol refinements:
Pre-clear lysates with irrelevant antibody and protein A/G beads
Determine optimal antibody-to-lysate ratios (starting with 5 μg antibody per mg protein)
Include appropriate controls:
IgG control from same species as SDR39U1 antibody
Cell lines with SDR39U1 knockdown/knockout
Competition with immunizing peptide
MS sample preparation:
Perform on-bead digestion to minimize contamination
Include brief detergent wash steps to reduce non-specific binding
Consider SILAC or TMT labeling for quantitative comparison between conditions
Data analysis strategy:
Filter against IgG control interactome to remove non-specific binders
Apply statistical thresholds (fold change >2, p<0.05) to identify significant interactions
Validate top hits by reciprocal IP and co-immunofluorescence
Perform functional classification and network analysis of interactors
This approach can reveal SDR39U1's position within cellular protein networks and provide clues about its functional roles beyond current annotations in epimerase activity and sugar metabolism.
Different antibody types offer distinct advantages for SDR39U1 detection depending on the application. The table below compares performance characteristics across key methods:
When selecting between these options, consider:
The ideal approach often involves using multiple antibody types in parallel to leverage their complementary strengths and confirm findings through independent methods.
SDR39U1 detection can be accomplished through various methodologies, each with distinct strengths and limitations:
| Detection Method | Advantages | Limitations | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antibody-based detection (IHC/IF/WB) | - Visualizes native protein - Detects post-translational modifications - Reveals subcellular localization - Compatible with fixed tissues | - Potential for cross-reactivity - Epitope masking in certain conditions - Dependent on antibody quality - Semi-quantitative | - Protein localization studies - Tissue expression profiling - Protein abundance changes |
| mRNA analysis (RT-PCR, RNA-seq) | - Highly specific based on sequence - Quantitative with proper controls - Can distinguish splice variants - Requires less optimization | - Doesn't confirm protein expression - Cannot detect post-translational modifications - No localization information - mRNA and protein levels may not correlate | - Transcriptional regulation studies - Splice variant analysis - High-throughput screening |
| Epitope tagging (GFP, FLAG, etc.) | - High specificity - Consistent performance - Independent of protein antibodies - Live cell imaging compatible | - Requires genetic modification - Tag may affect protein function - Overexpression artifacts - Limited to transfectable systems | - Protein dynamics - Interaction studies - Structure-function analysis |
| Mass spectrometry | - Identifies proteins without antibodies - Can detect modifications - Highly specific - Quantitative with labeling | - Limited spatial information - Complex sample preparation - Higher technical expertise required - Less sensitive for low-abundance proteins | - Protein identification - PTM analysis - Interaction proteomics |
For comprehensive SDR39U1 characterization, an integrated approach is recommended:
Use antibody-based methods for initial localization and expression studies
Confirm key findings with orthogonal techniques (mRNA analysis, MS)
For functional studies, combine antibody detection with genetic approaches (knockdown/knockout)
For novel interaction studies, validate antibody-based findings with tag-based reciprocal experiments
Recent technological advances are expanding applications for SDR39U1 antibodies beyond traditional methods:
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) integration:
Conjugate SDR39U1 antibodies with rare earth metals
Enables simultaneous detection of 40+ proteins in single cells
Allows correlation of SDR39U1 expression with comprehensive cell phenotyping
Implementation steps: Validate metal-conjugated antibodies against standard IF, establish optimal staining parameters, develop antibody panels including lineage markers
Spatial transcriptomics-antibody hybridization:
Combine SDR39U1 antibody detection with in situ RNA localization
Correlates protein expression with transcriptome at near-cellular resolution
Technologies to implement: 10x Visium with immunofluorescence, Slide-seq with antibody detection
Validation approach: Compare spatial patterns to conventional IHC, establish RNA-protein correlation maps
Super-resolution microscopy optimization:
Adapt SDR39U1 antibodies for STORM/PALM techniques
Achieves 10-20 nm resolution of protein localization
Reveals previously undetectable subcellular distribution patterns
Protocol modifications: Use bright, photoswitchable fluorophores, optimize antibody density, employ drift correction
Microfluidic antibody analysis:
Integrate SDR39U1 antibodies into microfluidic platforms
Enables high-throughput single-cell protein quantification
Reduces antibody consumption while increasing analytical throughput
Implementation strategy: Validate antibody performance in microfluidic channels, establish detection limits, develop multiplexed protocols
Antibody-based proximity labeling:
Convert SDR39U1 antibodies to proximity labeling tools (APEX2, BioID)
Maps protein interaction networks in native cellular environments
Identifies transient or weakly-associated partners
Development pathway: Generate antibody-enzyme fusions, validate labeling efficiency, optimize reaction conditions
These emerging technologies will enable researchers to study SDR39U1 with unprecedented spatial and molecular resolution, potentially revealing new aspects of its function in cellular physiology and disease contexts.
Cross-species research with SDR39U1 antibodies requires careful methodological planning due to sequence variations that can affect epitope recognition:
Epitope conservation analysis:
Align SDR39U1 sequences across target species using multiple sequence alignment tools
Calculate percent identity within antibody epitope regions
For HPA044294, analyze conservation within the immunogen sequence (RLPGDSTRQVVVRSGVVLGRGGG...)
Predict potential cross-reactivity based on epitope conservation percentages (>80% identity suggesting likely cross-reactivity)
Antibody selection strategy:
Prioritize antibodies validated across multiple species (e.g., Proteintech 16585-1-AP shows reactivity with human, mouse, and rat samples)
Target highly conserved protein domains for maximum cross-species utility
Consider generating new antibodies against universally conserved epitopes for novel species studies
Validation requirements for each species:
Perform Western blot analysis in each target species with positive and negative control tissues
Implement knockdown/knockout controls in available model systems
Compare observed molecular weights with species-specific predictions based on cDNA sequences
Document species-specific band patterns that may reflect different post-translational modifications
Protocol optimization across species:
Adjust antibody concentrations independently for each species (typically higher for less conserved epitopes)
Modify antigen retrieval conditions based on species-specific tissue fixation responses
Evaluate multiple blocking reagents to minimize species-specific background
Test incubation times and temperatures to optimize signal-to-noise ratio
Quantitative comparison considerations:
Establish species-specific standard curves using recombinant proteins when possible
Implement normalization strategies based on conserved housekeeping proteins
Account for differences in antibody affinity when comparing expression levels across species
Report results as relative changes within species rather than absolute comparisons
These methodological considerations ensure that cross-species comparisons of SDR39U1 expression and function yield valid biological insights rather than artifacts of antibody performance variation.