SERPINB4 (Serpin Peptidase Inhibitor, Clade B, Member 4), also known as SCCA-2, is a serine protease inhibitor critical in regulating inflammation, apoptosis, and immune responses . The HRP-conjugated SERPINB4 antibody is a specialized reagent designed for high-sensitive detection of SERPINB4 in immunoassays, particularly enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) conjugation enables enzymatic amplification of signals, enhancing detection sensitivity for quantitative analysis .
SERPINB4 belongs to the ovalbumin serpin family and shares 91–92% amino acid homology with SERPINB3 . Key properties include:
SERPINB4 is expressed in epithelial cells, malignant tissues, and inflammatory environments. Its HRP-conjugated antibody is optimized for detecting its presence in serum, tissues, and cell lysates .
The antibody is primarily used in ELISA for quantifying SERPINB4 levels. Its specificity and conjugation enable precise detection in complex biological matrices.
SERPINB4 is upregulated in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and Crohn’s disease (CD). Its HRP-conjugated antibody could aid in studying its role in epithelial barrier disruption and proinflammatory cytokine regulation :
CRSwNP: SERPINB4 suppresses CXCL8/IL-8 expression in nasal epithelial cells, suggesting a dual anti-inflammatory role .
CD: A heterozygous SERPINB4 mutation (K160E) impairs intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) proliferation and induces apoptosis, linking SERPINB4 dysfunction to intestinal inflammation .
High SERPINB4 levels correlate with poor survival in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and other cancers, highlighting its utility as a prognostic marker . ELISA-based detection using HRP-conjugated antibodies could standardize such biomarker assessments.
SERPINB4 (Serpin B4), also known as leupin, peptidase inhibitor 11 (PI-11), or squamous cell carcinoma antigen 2 (SCCA-2), is a member of the ovalbumin family of serine proteinase inhibitors. This protein functions primarily as a protease inhibitor that modulates host immune responses against tumor cells . SERPINB4 shares approximately 91-95% sequence identity with SERPINB3 at the amino acid level, with both proteins likely evolving from a common ancestral gene .
In research contexts, SERPINB4 has gained significance due to its observed upregulation in various inflammatory conditions including asthma, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and tuberculosis . The protein is predominantly expressed in epithelial cells, with higher expression noted in patients with chronic inflammatory conditions such as chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) . As a protein implicated in inflammation regulation, SERPINB4 represents an important target for investigating pathological mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.
SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated products typically share several important technical characteristics that researchers should consider when selecting reagents:
These specifications provide essential information for experimental design and protocol optimization when working with these antibodies.
Sample preparation methodologies vary depending on the tissue type and intended application. For SERPINB4 detection, researchers should consider the following approaches:
For epithelial cell samples, which are primary expression sites for SERPINB4 :
For cultured cells: Harvest cells using appropriate buffers containing protease inhibitors to prevent protein degradation.
For tissue sections: Use optimal cutting temperature (OCT) compound for fresh-frozen specimens or paraffin embedding for fixed tissues.
For immunofluorescence detection in tissue sections, as demonstrated in studies of nasal mucosa :
Deparaffinize and rehydrate paraffin-embedded tissue sections
Perform antigen retrieval using retrieval buffer (pH 6.0)
Block with 10% goat serum
Incubate overnight at 4°C with primary antibodies
Incubate with fluorophore-conjugated secondary antibodies (if using non-conjugated primary)
Mount slides with DAPI-containing mounting medium
For protein extraction for Western blot or ELISA:
Homogenize tissues in RIPA buffer supplemented with protease inhibitors
Centrifuge lysates to remove debris
Quantify protein concentration using standard methods (BCA or Bradford assay)
Normalize sample concentrations before analysis
Proper sample preparation is crucial for obtaining reliable and reproducible results when detecting SERPINB4 in experimental systems.
For optimal ELISA performance using SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated, researchers should follow this methodological approach:
Coating Phase:
Coat 96-well plates with capture antibody or target protein in carbonate-bicarbonate buffer (pH 9.6)
Incubate overnight at 4°C
Wash 3-5 times with PBS containing 0.05% Tween-20 (PBST)
Blocking Phase:
Block non-specific binding sites with 1-5% BSA or 5% non-fat dry milk in PBST
Incubate for 1-2 hours at room temperature
Wash 3-5 times with PBST
Sample Addition:
Add samples and standards diluted in blocking buffer
Incubate for 1-2 hours at room temperature or overnight at 4°C
Wash 3-5 times with PBST
Detection Phase:
Development Phase:
Add TMB (3,3',5,5'-Tetramethylbenzidine) substrate
Incubate for 15-30 minutes in the dark at room temperature
Add stop solution (usually 2N H₂SO₄)
Read absorbance at 450nm with 620nm as reference wavelength
This protocol can be adjusted based on specific experimental requirements and target protein concentration in samples.
Validating antibody specificity is critical for generating reliable research data. For SERPINB4 Antibody, researchers should implement multiple validation approaches:
Positive and Negative Controls:
Knockdown/Knockout Validation:
Recombinant Protein Competition:
Pre-incubate antibody with excess recombinant SERPINB4 protein before application
Observe signal reduction in competition experiments
Cross-Reactivity Assessment:
Multiple Detection Methods:
Compare results across different techniques (ELISA, Western blot, immunofluorescence)
Confirm signal correlation across methodologies
Thorough validation ensures experimental findings accurately reflect SERPINB4 biology rather than non-specific interactions.
When encountering weak or inconsistent signals with SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated, researchers should consider the following methodological troubleshooting approaches:
Antibody Dilution Optimization:
Antigen Retrieval Enhancement:
For tissue sections, compare different antigen retrieval methods (heat-induced vs. enzymatic)
Optimize pH of retrieval buffer (test pH 6.0 vs. pH 9.0)
Extend retrieval time if needed
Signal Amplification Strategies:
Implement biotin-streptavidin amplification systems
Consider tyramide signal amplification (TSA) for very low abundance targets
Increase substrate incubation time within the linear range of detection
Sample Quality Assessment:
Verify protein integrity through total protein stains
Test fresh samples to rule out protein degradation
Increase sample concentration if target protein levels are low
Blocking Optimization:
Test alternative blocking agents (BSA, casein, commercial blockers)
Extend blocking time to reduce background
Incubation Conditions:
Compare room temperature vs. 4°C incubation
Extend primary antibody incubation time (overnight at 4°C)
Protocol Modifications for Special Samples:
For samples with high protease activity, increase protease inhibitor concentration
For mucus-rich samples (like nasal polyps), include additional washing steps
Systematic troubleshooting using this methodological framework can help identify and resolve the specific issues affecting detection sensitivity.
SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated, offers valuable opportunities for investigating inflammatory pathways in epithelial cells, where SERPINB4 is predominantly expressed . Researchers can implement the following methodological approaches:
Cytokine Stimulation Studies:
Air-Liquid Interface (ALI) Culture Systems:
Co-localization Studies:
Perform dual immunofluorescence staining using SERPINB4 Antibody alongside markers of inflammation
Quantify co-localization using digital image analysis
Correlate SERPINB4 expression with inflammatory cell infiltration
Knockdown/Overexpression Approaches:
Patient-Derived Sample Analysis:
Compare SERPINB4 levels between healthy controls and patients with inflammatory conditions
Correlate SERPINB4 expression with clinical parameters and inflammatory biomarkers
Stratify patients based on SERPINB4 expression patterns
These approaches can be integrated into comprehensive research strategies to elucidate SERPINB4's role in epithelial cell inflammation regulation.
Differentiating between SERPINB3 and SERPINB4 presents a significant technical challenge due to their 92% amino acid sequence identity . Researchers can employ these methodological strategies for discrimination:
Selective Antibody Epitopes:
Use antibodies raised against unique peptide sequences in non-conserved regions
Verify epitope specificity through sequence alignment analysis
Consider custom antibody development if commercial options lack specificity
Isoform-Specific PCR:
Design primers targeting non-conserved regions between SERPINB3 and SERPINB4
Implement real-time PCR with high annealing temperature for specificity
Include melt curve analysis to verify amplicon specificity
Mass Spectrometry Approaches:
Apply targeted proteomics focusing on unique peptides
Implement selected reaction monitoring (SRM) or parallel reaction monitoring (PRM)
Analyze tryptic digests for isoform-specific peptide signatures
Recombinant Protein Standards:
Use purified recombinant SERPINB3 and SERPINB4 as standards
Compare antibody reactivity patterns
Create standard curves for quantitative discrimination
Functional Discrimination:
Exploit differences in protease inhibition profiles between SERPINB3 and SERPINB4
Implement activity-based protein profiling
Develop functional assays based on differential protease targeting
Immunodepletion Strategy:
Sequentially deplete samples using highly specific antibodies
Analyze remaining protein to determine isoform composition
Combine with Western blot or ELISA for quantification
Given the challenge of discrimination, researchers should implement multiple approaches and include appropriate controls to ensure reliable isoform identification.
Quantitative assessment of SERPINB4 expression in relation to inflammatory cytokines requires rigorous methodological approaches:
Multiplexed ELISA Systems:
Implement bead-based multiplexed assays measuring SERPINB4 alongside inflammatory cytokines
Calculate correlation coefficients between SERPINB4 and cytokines
Perform multivariate analysis to identify cytokine patterns associated with SERPINB4 expression
qPCR with Normalization:
Design primers specifically for SERPINB4 (distinguishing from SERPINB3)
Normalize to stable reference genes validated for inflammatory conditions
Calculate fold changes using the 2^(-ΔΔCt) method
Dose-Response and Time-Course Studies:
Digital Droplet PCR (ddPCR):
Implement absolute quantification without standard curves
Precisely measure copy numbers of SERPINB4 and inflammatory mediator mRNAs
Assess stoichiometric relationships
Quantitative Proteomics:
Apply stable isotope labeling approaches (SILAC, TMT, iTRAQ)
Quantify SERPINB4 alongside inflammatory signaling proteins
Identify protein interaction networks and modifications
Single-Cell Analysis:
Implement single-cell RNA sequencing or CyTOF
Correlate SERPINB4 expression with cytokine profiles at cellular level
Identify cell subpopulations with distinct SERPINB4/cytokine signatures
In Situ Hybridization with Image Analysis:
Perform RNAscope or similar for SERPINB4 and cytokine mRNAs
Quantify signal intensity using digital image analysis
Generate spatial correlation maps
These quantitative approaches provide robust frameworks for understanding the relationship between SERPINB4 and inflammatory cytokines in research contexts.
Proper storage and handling of SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated, is essential for maintaining reagent performance and experimental reproducibility:
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles that can denature the antibody and reduce activity
For HRP-conjugated antibodies, protect from light to prevent photobleaching of the enzyme
Buffer Composition:
The antibody is typically supplied in buffer containing:
Upon receipt, prepare small working aliquots in sterile microcentrifuge tubes
Use volumes appropriate for 2-3 experiments to minimize freeze-thaw cycles
Label with antibody details, date, and dilution information
Working dilutions should be prepared fresh and used within 24 hours
Monitor HRP activity over time using control experiments
For long-term studies, include positive controls from the same antibody lot to track potential degradation
Periodically test antibody performance using consistent positive controls
Implement standardized ELISA protocols to monitor sensitivity trends
Document lot numbers and performance characteristics for critical experiments
If temporary storage at 4°C is necessary, limit to 1-2 weeks
Return to -20°C for periods of non-use exceeding one week
Ensure cold chain maintenance during shipping and transfer
Following these storage recommendations helps ensure optimal antibody performance throughout the research project lifecycle.
Confirming antibody functionality after extended storage is a critical quality control measure. Researchers should implement these methodological approaches:
Activity Comparison with Fresh Standard:
Perform parallel ELISA using both stored antibody and a fresh reference standard
Calculate relative activity as a percentage of the reference standard
Establish acceptance criteria (e.g., >80% relative activity)
Dose-Response Testing:
Create serial dilutions of the antibody (1:250 to 1:2000)
Compare dose-response curves to historical data
Assess both sensitivity (detection threshold) and dynamic range
Positive Control Panel Testing:
Maintain a frozen set of positive control samples with known SERPINB4 levels
Test stored antibody against this panel periodically
Monitor for shifts in signal intensity or pattern
HRP Enzyme Activity Assessment:
Test HRP activity directly using standard substrates (TMB, ABTS, OPD)
Compare reaction kinetics with reference standards
Evaluate colorimetric development times
Spectral Analysis:
Perform absorbance scan of HRP-conjugated antibody
Compare spectral characteristics to manufacturer specifications
Assess for shifts indicating potential degradation
Western Blot Analysis:
If compatible with the antibody, perform Western blot on standard samples
Evaluate band intensity, specificity, and background levels
Compare signal-to-noise ratio with reference standards
Documentation and Trending:
Maintain records of antibody performance over time
Track key parameters (sensitivity, specificity, background)
Establish clear criteria for antibody replacement
These methodological approaches provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating antibody functionality following extended storage, ensuring research data quality and reliability.
Interpreting variable SERPINB4 expression levels requires careful consideration of biological and technical factors. Researchers should follow these methodological approaches:
Normalization Strategies:
For protein quantification, normalize to total protein content
For cell-specific analysis, normalize to epithelial cell markers
For tissue sections, consider area-based normalization using digital pathology
Biological Context Consideration:
Reference Range Establishment:
Develop laboratory-specific reference ranges using healthy controls
Stratify reference ranges by tissue type and sample processing method
Apply statistical approaches to define "normal" variation
Technical Variation Assessment:
Calculate intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation
Implement quality control samples within each experimental run
Consider batch effects in longitudinal studies
Correlation with Clinical Parameters:
For patient samples, correlate SERPINB4 levels with disease severity
Perform multivariate analysis incorporating clinical variables
Consider SERPINB4:SERPINB3 ratio as potentially more informative than absolute values
Cell-Type Specific Analysis:
Transcriptional vs. Protein-Level Regulation:
Compare mRNA and protein expression patterns
Investigate post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms
Consider protein stability and turnover rates
By systematically addressing these factors, researchers can develop more robust interpretations of SERPINB4 expression data across experimental systems and between patient cohorts.
Incorporating SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated into multiplex detection systems requires specific methodological considerations:
Cross-Reactivity Assessment:
Signal Separation Strategies:
When using multiple HRP-conjugated antibodies, implement sequential detection with HRP inactivation between steps
Consider alternative enzyme conjugates (AP, β-gal) for true multiplexing
Implement spectral unmixing algorithms for fluorescence-based multiplexing
Dynamic Range Optimization:
Adjust antibody concentrations to accommodate different abundance levels of targets
Implement dual-scale detection systems for targets with widely varying concentrations
Verify linear response range for each target in the multiplex context
Buffer Compatibility:
Test for compatibility between optimal buffers for SERPINB4 detection and other targets
Optimize buffer conditions to balance detection efficiency across all targets
Consider sequential incubation approaches if buffer requirements conflict
Data Normalization Approaches:
Implement target-specific internal controls
Apply computational algorithms to normalize cross-assay variations
Consider spike-in controls for absolute quantification
Spatial Multiplexing Considerations:
For tissue-based multiplex assays, optimize antigen retrieval conditions for all targets
Implement cyclic immunofluorescence or mass cytometry for high-parameter tissue analysis
Validate staining patterns using single-stain controls
Validation Requirements:
Validate multiplex results against single-plex gold standards
Perform spike-recovery experiments to assess matrix effects
Establish limits of detection and quantification in multiplex context
These methodological considerations provide a framework for successfully integrating SERPINB4 Antibody, HRP conjugated into multiplex detection platforms while maintaining assay performance and data quality.
SERPINB4 research has revealed important insights into epithelial inflammation mechanisms, with several methodological approaches driving new discoveries:
Transcriptomic Analysis:
Studies have identified differentially expressed genes in response to recombinant SERPINB4 stimulation, with pathway enrichment analysis showing that downregulated genes are enriched in cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions . This suggests SERPINB4 may function as a negative regulator of specific inflammatory pathways.
Cytokine-Mediated Regulation:
Research demonstrates that SERPINB4 expression is upregulated by multiple inflammatory cytokines including IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, and IL-17a , suggesting this protein responds to diverse inflammatory signals and potentially acts as a feedback regulator.
Disease Association Studies:
Increased expression of SERPINB4 has been found in multiple inflammatory conditions including asthma, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and tuberculosis . In chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), SERPINB4 expression is elevated in both eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic forms of the disease .
Protein-Protein Interaction Networks:
Network analysis of SERPINB4-responsive genes has identified CXCL8 (IL-8) as a hub gene , suggesting SERPINB4 may modulate neutrophil recruitment and activation in inflammatory microenvironments.
Mechanistic Investigations:
Experimental approaches using air-liquid interface cultures of primary human nasal epithelial cells have shown that recombinant SERPINB4 treatment affects CXCL8/IL-8 expression , providing direct evidence for its role in modulating epithelial inflammatory responses.
Genetic Association Studies:
Both SERPINB3 and SERPINB4 have been associated with disease genes of nasal polyps and inflammation in the DisGeNET database , suggesting genetic variation in these genes may influence susceptibility to inflammatory conditions.
These research approaches collectively demonstrate that SERPINB4 is not merely a biomarker of inflammation but an active participant in regulatory networks controlling epithelial inflammatory responses.
Methodological advances are continuously enhancing the specificity and sensitivity of SERPINB4 detection, with several key innovations:
Improved Immunogen Design:
Modern SERPINB4 antibodies utilize recombinant proteins covering specific amino acid regions (such as 128-208AA) that maximize unique epitopes while minimizing cross-reactivity with SERPINB3.
Affinity Purification Techniques:
Advanced antibody production now employs multi-step purification processes, including protein G purification and antigen-specific affinity chromatography, resulting in higher specificity preparations.
Signal Amplification Systems:
Beyond standard HRP conjugation, newer detection systems incorporate:
Polymer-based signal enhancement technologies
Tyramide signal amplification for ultra-sensitive detection
Quantum dot conjugation for improved stability and brightness
Multiplex Capabilities:
Technological advancements now enable simultaneous detection of SERPINB4 alongside related proteins and cytokines through:
Multiplexed immunoassay platforms
Multicolor flow cytometry with spectral unmixing
Sequential immunofluorescence techniques
Digital Analysis Methods:
Computational approaches improve detection accuracy through:
Automated image analysis for quantitative immunohistochemistry
Machine learning algorithms for pattern recognition
Digital pathology tools for tissue-based quantification
Single-Cell Technologies:
Emerging methods enable SERPINB4 detection at single-cell resolution:
Single-cell proteomics using mass cytometry (CyTOF)
Spatial transcriptomics for tissue-based localization
Imaging mass cytometry for multiplexed protein detection
Validation Protocols:
Improved validation approaches enhance confidence in results:
These methodological advances collectively improve the reliability and utility of SERPINB4 detection in both basic research and clinical investigation contexts.