The SGCE antibody (Sarcoglycan, Epsilon) is a premium-quality rabbit monoclonal antibody designed to target epsilon-sarcoglycan (SGCE), a component of the sarcoglycan complex critical for muscle membrane stability. When conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), it becomes a fluorescent probe for detecting SGCE in various assays, including flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and western blotting (WB).
Detects intracellular SGCE in fixed/permeabilized cells.
Example: A549 and PC-3 cells stained with 1 µg antibody/1x10⁶ cells, followed by DyLight®488 secondary antibody .
Validated on human breast and liver cancer tissues (2 µg/ml primary antibody, heat-mediated antigen retrieval) .
SGCE mutations are linked to myoclonus-dystonia and sarcoglycanopathies .
FITC-conjugated SGCE antibody aids in localizing pathogenic variants in muscle and tumor tissues .
SGCE (Sarcoglycan, epsilon) is a 49.9 kDa protein consisting of 437 amino acid residues in humans. It is a critical component of the sarcoglycan complex, which forms part of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex linking the F-actin cytoskeleton to the extracellular matrix. SGCE is primarily localized in the cell membrane, Golgi apparatus, and cytoplasm, with expression across multiple tissue types . Its significance in research stems from its role in maintaining cellular structural integrity and its implications in various pathological conditions, including myopathies and neurological disorders.
FITC (Fluorescein Isothiocyanate) is a widely used fluorochrome with distinctive spectral properties: excitation peak at approximately 495nm and emission peak at 525nm, producing a visible yellow-green fluorescence . The popularity of FITC in antibody conjugation stems from several advantages:
Relatively straightforward conjugation chemistry that typically preserves biological activity of the labeled protein
Strong fluorescence signal with good quantum yield
Compatibility with standard fluorescence microscopy equipment and filter sets
Well-established protocols for detection and analysis
Suitable for multiple applications including immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry
Commercially available SGCE antibodies conjugated to FITC typically have the following characteristics:
Host species: Commonly rabbit, especially for polyclonal antibodies
Clonality: Both polyclonal and monoclonal options are available
Immunogen: Usually recombinant human Epsilon-sarcoglycan protein fragments (e.g., AA 8-126)
Purification method: Typically protein G purification with >95% purity
Formulation: Liquid formulation in buffer systems with preservatives
Reactivity: Primary reactivity with human SGCE, with some products offering cross-reactivity with mouse, rat and other species
The antibodies target specific amino acid sequences within the SGCE protein, with different products focusing on N-terminal, C-terminal, or internal epitopes .
SGCE antibodies conjugated to FITC are particularly valuable for applications requiring direct visualization of the target protein, including:
Immunofluorescence microscopy: Direct one-step visualization of SGCE expression in fixed cells and tissues
Flow cytometry: Analysis of SGCE expression in cell populations
Confocal microscopy: High-resolution subcellular localization studies
Live cell imaging: When using membrane-impermeable antibody fragments for surface expression studies
The FITC conjugation eliminates the need for secondary antibody incubation steps, simplifying protocols and reducing background while allowing for multiplexing with other fluorophores in co-localization studies .
When working with FITC-conjugated SGCE antibodies rather than unconjugated primary antibodies, several protocol modifications are essential:
Light protection: Shield the antibody and samples from light exposure during all steps to prevent photobleaching
Simplified workflow: Eliminate the secondary antibody incubation step typically required with unconjugated primary antibodies
Dilution optimization: FITC-conjugated antibodies may require different optimal dilutions than their unconjugated counterparts (typically 1:500 in PBS containing 10% FBS for immunofluorescence)
Reduced incubation time: Direct detection often allows for shorter incubation periods (approximately 1 hour at room temperature) compared to two-step detection systems
Modified blocking: Maintain effective blocking to minimize non-specific binding, using PBS with 10% FBS or similar blocking solutions
Storage considerations: Store at recommended temperatures (typically 2-8°C) in the dark to maintain conjugate stability
Validating the specificity of SGCE-FITC antibody staining is critical for reliable research outcomes. Implement these methodological approaches:
Negative controls:
Include samples known to be negative for SGCE expression
Use isotype-matched FITC-conjugated control antibodies to assess non-specific binding
Implement peptide blocking by pre-incubating the antibody with excess immunizing peptide
Positive controls:
Include samples with confirmed SGCE expression
Compare staining patterns with published literature or antibody manufacturer's reference images
Complementary techniques:
Co-localization studies:
Use antibodies against known SGCE-interacting proteins to confirm expected co-localization patterns
Employ multiple antibodies targeting different SGCE epitopes to verify consistent staining patterns
Several experimental factors could lead to weak or absent fluorescence signal when using SGCE-FITC antibodies:
Photobleaching: Excessive exposure to light during storage, handling, or examination can significantly reduce FITC fluorescence
Target accessibility issues:
Insufficient permeabilization for intracellular targets
Inadequate antigen retrieval in fixed tissues
Epitope masking due to protein-protein interactions or post-translational modifications
Technical factors:
Suboptimal antibody concentration
Expired or degraded antibody
Incompatible fixation method damaging the epitope
Improper microscope filter settings for FITC detection
Biological factors:
Low expression levels of SGCE in the sample
Expression variations across different cell types or developmental stages
Epitope sequence variations across species if working with non-human samples
For methodological resolution, systematic optimization of fixation conditions, permeabilization parameters, antibody concentration, and incubation times is recommended, along with careful protection from light throughout all experimental steps .
High background is a common challenge with immunofluorescence techniques. The following methodological approaches can help minimize background when using SGCE-FITC antibodies:
Optimize blocking conditions:
Antibody optimization:
Titrate the FITC-conjugated antibody to determine the minimal effective concentration
Reduce incubation time if overstaining is observed
Perform additional washing steps with PBS after antibody incubation
Sample preparation refinements:
Ensure complete fixation to reduce autofluorescence from cellular components
Remove residual fixative thoroughly before antibody application
Include 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 in wash buffers to reduce non-specific hydrophobic interactions
Specific countermeasures for autofluorescence:
Treat samples with sodium borohydride (1mg/ml for 10 minutes) to reduce aldehyde-induced autofluorescence
Use Sudan Black B (0.1-0.3% in 70% ethanol) to quench lipofuscin-based autofluorescence
Consider spectral unmixing during image acquisition if using confocal microscopy
The impact of FITC conjugation on SGCE antibody binding properties depends on several factors:
Conjugation chemistry: FITC typically attaches to primary amines (lysine residues) and N-terminal amino groups in the antibody. The degree of modification and specific lysines affected influence the potential impact on antigen recognition .
Conjugation ratio: The FITC:antibody ratio (typically 3-8 FITC molecules per antibody) can impact binding:
Too few FITC molecules may yield insufficient signal
Too many FITC molecules may sterically hinder antigen binding
Epitope location: If conjugation occurs near the antigen-binding site, there is a higher likelihood of affecting binding properties.
When absolute preservation of binding characteristics is critical, researchers can consider:
Using indirect detection with unconjugated primary SGCE antibody and FITC-conjugated secondary antibody
Employing site-directed conjugation technologies that target specific regions away from antigen-binding sites
Validating binding characteristics through comparative studies with unconjugated antibodies
SGCE-FITC antibodies can be effectively incorporated into multiplex immunofluorescence protocols to simultaneously visualize multiple targets. Consider these methodological approaches:
Spectral compatibility planning:
FITC emissions (525nm) pair well with fluorophores such as Cy3 (570nm), Cy5 (670nm), or DAPI (455nm)
Ensure minimal spectral overlap between chosen fluorophores
Consider the following optimal combination: DAPI (nuclei), FITC (SGCE), Cy3 (protein of interest 1), Cy5 (protein of interest 2)
Sequential staining protocols:
For antibodies raised in the same species, implement sequential staining with thorough blocking between steps
Consider tyramide signal amplification for sequential staining to prevent cross-reactivity
Order antibody application from weakest to strongest signal when possible
Advanced visualization techniques:
Employ spectral unmixing algorithms for fluorophores with partial overlap
Utilize confocal microscopy with narrow bandpass filters for optimal channel separation
Consider superresolution microscopy for co-localization studies requiring nanometer precision
Controls for multiplex experiments:
Include single-stained controls for each fluorophore
Implement fluorescence minus one (FMO) controls to assess bleed-through
Use computational methods to correct for any residual crosstalk between channels
This approach allows researchers to examine the relationship between SGCE and other proteins of interest within the same cellular compartments .
Studying SGCE protein dynamics requires specialized techniques that preserve the temporal and spatial resolution of protein behavior. Consider these methodological approaches when using FITC-conjugated antibodies:
Live cell imaging applications:
Generate FITC-conjugated Fab fragments or nanobodies against SGCE for membrane-impermeable live imaging of surface expression
Microinjection of FITC-conjugated antibodies for intracellular tracking
Combine with photobleaching techniques such as FRAP (Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching) to measure mobility
Pulse-chase experiments:
Use FITC-conjugated antibodies to label surface SGCE at specific timepoints
Chase with differently labeled antibodies to track protein turnover and trafficking
Quantify internalization rates and recycling dynamics
Super-resolution microscopy:
Implement STORM or PALM techniques using photo-switchable FITC derivatives for nanoscale resolution
Track SGCE distribution and clustering at the membrane with precision beyond the diffraction limit
Analyze co-clustering with other sarcoglycan complex components
Quantitative approaches:
Employ ratiometric analysis with reference fluorophores to control for expression level variations
Implement automated tracking algorithms to follow SGCE-positive vesicles or membrane domains
Correlate fluorescence intensity with protein concentration using calibration standards
These approaches allow researchers to move beyond static localization studies to understand the dynamic behavior of SGCE in cellular contexts .
Flow cytometry with SGCE-FITC antibodies requires specific optimization strategies for reliable detection and quantification:
Instrument setup and compensation:
Use FITC single-stained controls to set appropriate voltage for the 530/30nm detector
Implement compensation if using multiple fluorophores to correct for spectrum overlap
Consider the use of fluorescence standardization beads to establish reproducible settings
Cell preparation refinements:
Optimize fixation and permeabilization protocols specifically for SGCE detection
For intracellular SGCE, evaluate different permeabilization agents (Triton X-100, saponin, methanol) for optimal epitope accessibility
Maintain cell viability with gentle handling when detecting surface-expressed SGCE
Antibody titration and signal optimization:
Determine optimal antibody concentration through serial dilutions
Plot signal-to-noise ratio versus antibody concentration to identify the optimal point
Consider signal amplification systems for low abundance targets
Gating strategies and analysis:
Implement a sequential gating strategy: FSC/SSC → singlets → live cells → SGCE-positive population
Use fluorescence minus one (FMO) controls to set positive gates accurately
Consider density plots rather than histograms for better visualization of distinct populations
Data interpretation considerations:
Distinguish between surface and total SGCE expression through differential permeabilization
Correlate SGCE expression with other cellular markers to identify specific cell populations
Consider mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) rather than percent positive for quantitative comparisons
These methodological refinements ensure accurate detection and quantification of SGCE expression across different cell populations .
SGCE-FITC antibodies can be integrated with complementary molecular techniques to provide comprehensive insights:
Correlation with gene expression data:
Couple immunofluorescence staining with in situ hybridization to correlate protein localization with mRNA expression
Follow up RNA-seq findings with SGCE-FITC antibody staining to validate expression patterns at the protein level
Implement single-cell approaches combining transcriptomics with indexed FACS sorting using SGCE-FITC antibodies
Proteomics integration:
Use SGCE-FITC antibodies for immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry to identify interaction partners
Perform fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) with SGCE-FITC antibodies to isolate specific cell populations for subsequent proteomic analysis
Validate proteomic findings through co-localization studies using SGCE-FITC with antibodies against identified partners
Functional assays:
Combine live-cell SGCE-FITC antibody staining with calcium imaging to correlate SGCE expression with cellular function
Use SGCE-FITC antibodies to identify positive cells for patch-clamp electrophysiology
Implement cell migration or invasion assays with SGCE-FITC antibody labeling to correlate expression with behavioral phenotypes
These integrated approaches provide multi-dimensional data that connect SGCE expression with functional outcomes and molecular mechanisms .
Tissue microarray (TMA) analysis with SGCE-FITC antibodies requires specific methodological considerations:
Tissue preparation and antigen retrieval:
Optimize fixation protocols to preserve both tissue architecture and SGCE epitopes
Evaluate different antigen retrieval methods (heat-induced vs. enzymatic) for optimal SGCE detection
Consider the impact of tissue type on autofluorescence when using FITC-conjugated antibodies
Staining protocol adaptations:
Implement automated staining platforms for consistent results across multiple TMA slides
Optimize antibody concentration specifically for TMA sections, which may differ from whole-mount tissues
Consider signal amplification methods for detecting low abundance SGCE
Quantification strategies:
Develop consistent scoring systems for SGCE positivity (intensity, percentage positive cells, H-score)
Implement digital pathology approaches with machine learning algorithms for unbiased quantification
Establish multi-observer validation protocols to ensure reproducibility
Data integration:
Correlate SGCE expression patterns with clinical parameters and outcomes
Implement statistical methods appropriate for TMA data analysis, accounting for missing cores and heterogeneity
Consider multiplexed approaches combining SGCE-FITC with other biomarkers for comprehensive profiling
These approaches enable high-throughput analysis of SGCE expression across large sample cohorts while maintaining data quality and reproducibility .
The choice of fixation and permeabilization methods significantly impacts SGCE-FITC antibody performance:
Fixation considerations:
| Fixative | Advantages for SGCE-FITC Detection | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| 4% Paraformaldehyde | Preserves morphology while maintaining many epitopes | Can mask some conformational epitopes |
| Methanol | Excellent for cytoskeletal proteins, good penetration | May denature some epitopes, increases autofluorescence |
| Acetone | Rapid fixation, good for many membrane proteins | Poor morphological preservation |
| Glutaraldehyde | Superior ultrastructural preservation | Significant autofluorescence, epitope masking |
Permeabilization optimization:
| Agent | Concentration Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Triton X-100 | 0.1-0.5% | Deep intracellular and nuclear antigens |
| Saponin | 0.1-0.5% | Gentle permeabilization for membrane proteins |
| Digitonin | 0.001-0.1% | Selective plasma membrane permeabilization |
| Tween-20 | 0.1-0.3% | Mild permeabilization for abundant antigens |
Protocol optimization strategy:
Test multiple fixation and permeabilization combinations specifically for SGCE detection
Evaluate the balance between signal intensity and morphological preservation
Consider dual fixation protocols (e.g., brief paraformaldehyde followed by methanol) for challenging epitopes
Implement antigen retrieval methods to recover masked epitopes after stronger fixation
Specialized considerations for SGCE:
As a membrane-associated protein, SGCE detection may benefit from milder permeabilization agents
Consider different protocols for detecting different pools of SGCE (membrane vs. Golgi vs. cytoplasmic)
Optimize protocols separately for different tissue types due to varying matrix compositions
These methodological considerations are essential for maximizing signal while maintaining specificity and morphological context .
A comprehensive control strategy is essential for robust research using SGCE-FITC antibodies:
Antibody validation controls:
Positive control: Samples with confirmed SGCE expression (e.g., specific cell lines or tissues)
Negative control: Samples lacking SGCE expression or SGCE knockout/knockdown models
Peptide competition: Pre-incubation of SGCE-FITC antibody with immunizing peptide to confirm specificity
Isotype control: FITC-conjugated isotype-matched immunoglobulin to assess non-specific binding
Technical controls:
Secondary antibody only (if using indirect methods) to assess background
Autofluorescence control: Unstained sample to measure intrinsic fluorescence
Fluorescence spillover controls: Single-color controls for compensation in multicolor experiments
Fixation control: Processing control samples without primary antibody
Biological controls:
Developmental or treatment series to confirm expected SGCE expression changes
Related cell types with different expected SGCE expression levels
Tissue panel demonstrating expected expression pattern across multiple tissues
Complementary detection method (e.g., Western blot) to confirm specificity
Quantification controls:
Fluorescence calibration beads for standardization across experiments
Internal reference markers for normalization
Technical replicates to assess method reproducibility
Biological replicates to account for natural variation
This control framework ensures that observed signals represent genuine SGCE localization rather than artifacts .
Accurate quantification of SGCE expression using FITC-conjugated antibodies requires systematic methodological approaches:
Image acquisition standardization:
Maintain consistent exposure settings across all experimental groups
Use non-saturating acquisition parameters validated with intensity histograms
Implement flat-field correction to account for illumination heterogeneity
Acquire multiple fields per sample for statistical robustness
Analytical methods selection:
Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) measurement in defined regions of interest
Cell-by-cell quantification for population distribution analysis
Colocalization coefficient calculation for relationship with other markers
Threshold-based quantification of positive area percentage
Normalization strategies:
Normalize to cell number using nuclear counterstain
Implement internal reference standards for cross-experiment comparison
Use ratiometric approaches with housekeeping proteins
Account for background through appropriate subtraction methods
Advanced quantification approaches:
Implement machine learning algorithms for unbiased segmentation and quantification
Consider 3D quantification for volumetric samples using z-stacks
Develop classification algorithms for phenotypic categorization
Employ high-content analysis for multiparametric assessment
Statistical analysis considerations:
Select appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution
Account for nested data structures in experimental design
Implement robust outlier detection methods
Consider statistical power calculations to determine sample size requirements
These approaches ensure that quantitative data accurately reflects biological SGCE expression levels rather than technical artifacts .
Designing experiments to study SGCE localization and trafficking requires careful planning:
Experimental timeline planning:
Determine appropriate timepoints based on expected trafficking kinetics
Design pulse-chase experiments to follow protein movement over time
Plan appropriate intervals for live cell imaging to capture dynamic events
Consider developmental timepoints if studying SGCE expression changes during differentiation
Compartment marker selection:
Select appropriate markers for subcellular compartments:
Plasma membrane: Na+/K+ ATPase, WGA
Golgi apparatus: GM130, TGN46
Endosomes: EEA1 (early), Rab7 (late)
Lysosomes: LAMP1, LAMP2
Cytoskeleton: β-tubulin, F-actin
Trafficking pathway interrogation:
Implement temperature blocks to synchronize trafficking (e.g., 4°C to block endocytosis, 20°C to block ER-to-Golgi transport)
Use specific inhibitors of trafficking pathways (e.g., Brefeldin A for Golgi, Dynasore for endocytosis)
Consider photoactivatable or photoconvertible fusion proteins for pulse-chase experiments
Implement cargo loading assays to track internalization rates
Technical considerations:
Optimize temporal resolution based on expected trafficking rates
Balance spatial resolution needs with phototoxicity concerns for live imaging
Consider resonant scanning or spinning disk confocal for rapid events
Implement deconvolution algorithms to improve spatial resolution
Data analysis approaches:
Develop tracking algorithms for vesicular movement
Implement colocalization analysis with compartment markers
Quantify surface-to-internal ratios for internalization studies
Use fluorescence intensity profile analysis across cellular regions
These methodological considerations enable detailed characterization of SGCE localization and trafficking dynamics in cellular contexts .
Super-resolution microscopy has revolutionized the capabilities of FITC-conjugated antibody imaging for SGCE research:
STED (Stimulated Emission Depletion) microscopy:
Achieves ~30-80nm resolution with FITC through selective depletion of excited fluorophores
Enables visualization of SGCE nanoclusters at the membrane previously obscured by diffraction limits
Allows direct observation of SGCE interaction with dystrophin-glycoprotein complex components
Implementation requires specific high-powered depletion lasers and appropriate mounting media to minimize photobleaching
STORM/PALM techniques:
Single-molecule localization microscopy achieves ~10-20nm resolution through temporal separation of fluorophore emissions
Requires photoswitchable FITC derivatives or immunolabeling with photoswitchable fluorophores after SGCE-FITC detection
Enables precise quantification of SGCE molecules per cluster and cluster dimensions
Requires specialized buffers containing oxygen scavenging systems and reducing agents
SIM (Structured Illumination Microscopy):
Achieves ~100-120nm resolution through computational reconstruction of patterned illumination data
More compatible with standard FITC-conjugated antibodies than other super-resolution techniques
Enables live-cell super-resolution imaging of SGCE dynamics with reduced phototoxicity
Provides modest resolution enhancement with minimal specialized sample preparation
Expansion microscopy:
Physically expands the specimen using swellable polymers to achieve ~70nm resolution with standard confocal microscopy
Compatible with conventional SGCE-FITC antibody staining followed by specimen expansion
Enables detailed visualization of SGCE distribution within complex cellular structures
Requires careful validation to ensure uniform expansion and epitope preservation
These super-resolution approaches provide unprecedented insights into SGCE nanoscale organization and interactions that were previously obscured by diffraction-limited conventional microscopy .
Several emerging antibody technologies show promise for enhancing SGCE detection:
Site-directed conjugation strategies:
Enzymatic conjugation using sortase or transglutaminase to attach FITC at specific sites
Click chemistry approaches for bioorthogonal conjugation away from antigen-binding regions
Engineered unnatural amino acid incorporation for precise FITC attachment
These approaches minimize impact on binding affinity while maintaining fluorescence properties
Alternative binding scaffolds:
Nanobodies (single-domain antibody fragments): Smaller size (~15kDa) enables better tissue penetration and reduced steric hindrance
Affimers: Non-antibody binding proteins selected for high specificity to SGCE epitopes
DARPins: Designed ankyrin repeat proteins with high stability and specificity
These alternatives often show superior performance in super-resolution microscopy applications
Brightness enhancement strategies:
DNA-point accumulation for imaging in nanoscale topography (DNA-PAINT) for transient binding and enhanced localization precision
Self-labeling protein tags allowing specific and stoichiometric fluorophore attachment
Fluorescent protein exchange technology allowing refreshable labeling for extended imaging
These approaches address the photobleaching limitations of conventional FITC conjugates
Multifunctional conjugates:
Dual-modality probes combining FITC with MRI contrast agents or radiotracers
Integration of FITC with proximity-based reporters (FRET, BiFC) for interaction studies
FITC-conjugated cyclic peptides as smaller alternatives to full antibodies
These hybrid approaches expand the research applications beyond conventional imaging
These technological advances offer potential solutions to current limitations in sensitivity, specificity, and photostability of SGCE-FITC antibody conjugates .
SGCE-FITC antibodies offer significant potential for advancing disease research and therapeutic development:
Diagnostic applications:
Development of quantitative immunofluorescence assays for SGCE expression in patient samples
Correlation of altered SGCE localization patterns with disease progression
Implementation in high-throughput pathology workflows for screening
Potential for early detection of conditions with altered SGCE expression before symptom onset
Disease mechanism elucidation:
Characterization of SGCE mislocalization in myoclonus-dystonia syndrome and other movement disorders
Investigation of sarcoglycan complex assembly defects in muscular dystrophies
Analysis of SGCE dynamics in cellular stress responses and adaptation
Identification of altered SGCE-protein interactions in pathological states
Therapeutic development support:
Screening assays for compounds that rescue proper SGCE localization
Evaluation of gene therapy approaches targeting SGCE expression or localization
Assessment of protein replacement therapy efficacy through trafficking studies
Development of targeted drug delivery systems recognizing cells with altered SGCE expression
Translational research applications:
Correlation of SGCE expression patterns with clinical outcomes in longitudinal studies
Development of patient-derived organoid models with SGCE-FITC antibody-based readouts
Implementation in high-content screening platforms for personalized medicine approaches
Integration with other biomarkers for comprehensive disease profiling
These applications demonstrate how SGCE-FITC antibodies can bridge fundamental research with clinical applications, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes through enhanced understanding of disease mechanisms and therapeutic responses .