SH2D3A (SH2 domain containing 3A), also known as Novel SH2-containing protein 1 (NSP1), is a 576 amino acid protein that plays a significant role in JNK activation within cellular signaling networks. The protein contains one Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, which binds to tyrosine-phosphorylated regions of target proteins, frequently linking activated growth factors to putative signal transduction proteins .
SH2D3A interacts with p130 Cas and is expressed at low levels in fetal kidney, fetal lung, placenta, adult pancreas, kidney and lung . It undergoes post-translational phosphorylation on multiple tyrosine residues, which is crucial for its function . Recent research has also implicated SH2D3A in the JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway, as knockdown experiments demonstrated decreased levels of JAK1 and STAT3 proteins .
The predicted molecular weight of SH2D3A is 63.1 kDa, though it typically appears around 60 kDa on western blots . This information is essential for researchers to accurately identify the protein in experimental samples.
SH2D3A antibodies have been validated for multiple applications in molecular and cellular research:
The choice of application should be guided by the specific research question, with consideration for the advantages and limitations of each technique. For protein quantification, western blotting or ELISA are preferred, while localization studies benefit from immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence approaches .
When selecting an SH2D3A antibody, researchers should consider several critical factors to ensure optimal experimental outcomes:
Target epitope location: Different antibodies recognize different regions of SH2D3A:
Host species and clonality:
The choice affects compatibility with other antibodies in multi-labeling experiments and available secondary detection systems.
Validated applications: Ensure the antibody has been specifically validated for your intended application (WB, IHC, IF, ELISA) .
Purification method: Many quality SH2D3A antibodies are purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by antigen affinity chromatography using the immunizing peptide .
Storage conditions: Most SH2D3A antibodies should be stored at -20°C, with recommendations to avoid freeze/thaw cycles .
For critical experiments, it may be advisable to test multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes to confirm results and ensure specificity.
Recent research published in 2024 has revealed significant insights into SH2D3A's role in cervical cancer and its relationship with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection :
Expression profile: SH2D3A expression is significantly elevated in cervical cancer tissues compared to normal tissues, suggesting a potential oncogenic role .
Functional significance:
Regulatory mechanism - HPV E7/miR-143-3p/SH2D3A pathway:
SH2D3A was found to be regulated by miR-143-3p, confirmed through bioinformatics prediction and luciferase reporter assays
HPV E7 silencing led to decreased SH2D3A mRNA levels and increased miR-143-3p levels
This suggests a pathway where HPV E7 suppresses miR-143-3p, which normally inhibits SH2D3A
Downstream signaling: SH2D3A knockdown decreased levels of JAK1 and STAT3 proteins, suggesting that SH2D3A promotes cervical cancer progression partly through the JAK/STAT pathway .
These findings establish a novel HPV E7/miR-143-3p/SH2D3A/JAK-STAT regulatory axis in cervical cancer, highlighting SH2D3A as both a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for HPV-associated cancers .
The interaction between SH2D3A and p130 Cas is a critical aspect of SH2D3A function . Here are methodological approaches for studying this interaction:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP):
Use anti-SH2D3A antibodies to pull down the complex and detect p130 Cas, or vice versa
Include appropriate controls (IgG control, lysate input)
Buffer considerations: Include phosphatase inhibitors due to SH2D3A's tyrosine phosphorylation sites
Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA):
Use primary antibodies against SH2D3A and p130 Cas from different host species
PLA generates fluorescent signals only when the two proteins are in close proximity (<40 nm)
Allows visualization of the interaction in situ with subcellular resolution
Antibody selection considerations:
Choose SH2D3A antibodies that recognize epitopes away from the p130 Cas binding site
For co-staining experiments, select antibodies from different host species
Consider using multiple antibodies targeting different regions of SH2D3A to confirm results
Experimental variables to test:
Tyrosine phosphorylation status (treat with phosphatase inhibitors or kinase activators)
Growth factor stimulation (which may modulate the interaction)
Cell adhesion status (as p130 Cas is involved in adhesion signaling)
Understanding this interaction may provide insights into how SH2D3A contributes to cellular signaling networks and potentially to disease states such as cancer .
Based on recent research, the following experimental designs are effective for analyzing SH2D3A functional roles:
Knockdown Approaches:
siRNA/shRNA-mediated silencing:
CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing:
For stable knockout models
Verify by genomic sequencing and protein absence via western blot
Functional Assays Following Manipulation:
Proliferation: Cell Counting Kit-8 assay demonstrated reduced proliferation after SH2D3A knockdown in cervical cancer cells
Apoptosis: Flow cytometry with Annexin V/PI staining showed increased apoptosis following SH2D3A silencing
Invasion: Transwell assay revealed decreased invasive capacity in SH2D3A-silenced cells
In vivo tumorigenesis: A transplantation tumor model in nude mice demonstrated reduced tumor growth with SH2D3A-silenced cells
Signaling pathway analysis:
Control Experiments:
Rescue experiments (re-expressing SH2D3A to restore phenotype)
Dose-response relationships with partial knockdowns
Time-course analysis to distinguish primary from secondary effects
This comprehensive approach allows researchers to establish both the phenotypic consequences of SH2D3A manipulation and the underlying molecular mechanisms .
Based on available research data, here is an optimized western blotting protocol for SH2D3A detection:
Sample Preparation:
Include phosphatase inhibitors in lysis buffer (SH2D3A is phosphorylated on multiple tyrosine residues)
Protocol Steps:
Gel selection and protein loading:
8-10% SDS-PAGE gels (optimal for 60-63 kDa proteins)
Load 20-50 μg total protein per lane
Transfer conditions:
Transfer to PVDF or nitrocellulose membrane
Wet transfer at 100V for 1 hour or 30V overnight
Blocking:
5% non-fat milk or BSA in TBST for 1 hour at room temperature
Primary antibody incubation:
Washing and secondary antibody:
Wash 3x for 10 minutes each with TBST
Use appropriate species-specific secondary antibody (anti-goat or anti-rabbit)
Incubate for 1 hour at room temperature
Detection:
ECL substrate for HRP-conjugated secondaries
Digital imaging systems preferred over film for quantification
Troubleshooting Tips:
For weak signal: Try longer exposure times or increase antibody concentration
For high background: Increase washing steps or decrease antibody concentration
For multiple bands: Confirm specificity with positive controls and consider using antibodies targeting different epitopes
Rigorous validation of SH2D3A antibody specificity requires the following controls:
Positive Controls:
Recommended tissue/cell samples:
Recombinant protein controls:
Full-length SH2D3A protein
Peptide fragments containing the specific epitope
Negative Controls:
Technical negative controls:
Omission of primary antibody
Isotype control (matched immunoglobulin at same concentration)
Pre-adsorption control (antibody pre-incubated with immunizing peptide)
Biological negative controls:
Tissues with very low/no SH2D3A expression
SH2D3A knockdown/knockout samples
Multiple Antibody Validation:
Comparing results from antibodies targeting different SH2D3A epitopes:
Western Blot Validation Criteria:
Band disappearance in knockdown/knockout samples
Consistent results across multiple antibodies
Prestige Antibodies Additional Validation:
The Prestige Antibodies in search results and have undergone extensive validation:
IHC tissue array testing on 44 normal human tissues and 20 cancer type tissues
Protein array testing against 364 human recombinant protein fragments
These comprehensive controls ensure reliable and specific detection of SH2D3A in research applications .
When optimizing immunohistochemistry with SH2D3A antibodies, researchers may encounter several challenges. Here are effective troubleshooting approaches:
| Problem | Solution | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive antibody | Reduce concentration or incubation time | Minimizes non-specific binding |
| Insufficient blocking | Extend blocking time or try different blockers (5% BSA, normal serum) | Reduces non-specific binding sites |
| Inadequate washing | Add extra washing steps with gentle agitation | Removes unbound antibody |
| Cross-reactivity | Test with pre-absorption control | Confirms specificity |
Optimization Strategy:
Antibody titration matrix:
Test 3-4 different antibody dilutions
Try both overnight 4°C and 1-2 hour room temperature incubations
Document results systematically
Antigen retrieval comparison:
Test no retrieval, citrate buffer, and EDTA buffer
Compare microwave, pressure cooker, and water bath methods
Detection system optimization:
Compare standard ABC method vs. polymer detection systems
Consider signal amplification for weak signals
Positive control validation:
By systematically addressing these factors, researchers can develop a robust protocol for SH2D3A immunohistochemistry .
Reliable quantification of SH2D3A requires careful methodological considerations across different experimental platforms:
Western Blot Quantification:
Standardization approach:
Imaging and analysis guidelines:
Use digital imaging systems with linear dynamic range
Avoid saturated signals (verify with exposure series)
Normalize SH2D3A band intensity (60-63.1 kDa) to loading controls
Analyze with software like ImageJ using consistent measurement parameters
Immunohistochemistry Quantification:
Scoring parameters:
Staining intensity (0-3 scale)
Percentage of positive cells
H-score calculation: Σ(intensity × % positive cells)
Document representative images at consistent magnification
Automation considerations:
Use digital pathology software for unbiased assessment
Maintain consistent thresholds across samples
Validate automated scoring against expert pathologist evaluation
ELISA Quantification:
Optimal conditions:
Comparative Analysis Table:
| Method | Advantages | Limitations | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Blot | Protein size verification | Semi-quantitative | Expression changes in cell lysates |
| IHC/IF | Spatial information | Subjective scoring | Tissue distribution studies |
| ELISA | High sensitivity | No size verification | Quantitative comparisons |
| qPCR (complementary) | High sensitivity | mRNA ≠ protein | Transcriptional regulation studies |
Statistical Considerations:
Perform at least three independent biological replicates
Apply appropriate statistical tests (t-test, ANOVA)
Report both fold-change and p-values
Consider power analysis for sample size determination
By implementing these rigorous quantification approaches, researchers can generate reliable and reproducible data on SH2D3A expression across different experimental conditions .
Recent research has uncovered a novel regulatory pathway involving HPV E7, miR-143-3p, and SH2D3A in cervical cancer development . This pathway represents a significant advance in understanding how HPV infection contributes to oncogenesis.
Key Components of the Regulatory Axis:
HPV E7 oncoprotein:
miR-143-3p:
SH2D3A:
Downstream Consequences:
Western blot analysis revealed that SH2D3A knockdown led to decreased levels of JAK1 and STAT3 proteins, suggesting that SH2D3A promotes cervical cancer progression partly through the JAK/STAT pathway .
Experimental Validation Methods:
qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry to compare SH2D3A expression in tissues
SH2D3A knockdown in SiHa and HeLa cells followed by functional assays
Transplantation tumor model in nude mice
Luciferase reporter assays to verify miRNA binding
This regulatory axis provides new insights into HPV-mediated carcinogenesis and identifies SH2D3A as a potential therapeutic target in HPV-positive cervical cancers .
SH2D3A undergoes post-translational phosphorylation on multiple tyrosine residues , which likely affects its function in signaling pathways. Here are methodological approaches for analyzing these modifications:
Experimental Approaches:
Phosphorylation-specific detection:
Immunoprecipitation with SH2D3A antibodies followed by anti-phosphotyrosine western blotting
Phos-tag SDS-PAGE to separate phosphorylated from non-phosphorylated forms
Lambda phosphatase treatment comparison to confirm phosphorylation
Mass spectrometry analysis:
Functional analysis of phosphorylation sites:
Experimental Stimulation Protocols:
Serum stimulation time-course (0-60 minutes)
Growth factor treatment (EGF, PDGF, etc.)
Phosphatase inhibitor treatment
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors to identify responsible kinases
Sample Preparation Considerations:
Include phosphatase inhibitors in all buffers
Process samples rapidly at 4°C
Consider crosslinking before lysis to preserve transient interactions
By combining these approaches, researchers can generate a comprehensive understanding of how post-translational modifications regulate SH2D3A function in normal physiology and disease contexts .
Based on recent findings about SH2D3A's role in cancer, particularly its elevated expression in cervical cancer and its position in the HPV E7/miR-143-3p/SH2D3A/JAK-STAT pathway , several emerging applications for SH2D3A antibodies in cancer research and diagnostics can be identified:
Diagnostic Applications:
Tissue biomarker development:
Liquid biopsy approaches:
Therapeutic Research Applications:
Target validation studies:
Antibody-based confirmation of SH2D3A knockdown efficiency in preclinical models
Correlation of SH2D3A reduction with therapeutic outcomes
Combination therapy research:
Monitoring SH2D3A and JAK/STAT pathway components during treatment
Identifying synergistic approaches targeting multiple pathway components
Mechanistic Investigation Approaches:
Interaction proteomics:
Immunoprecipitation with SH2D3A antibodies followed by mass spectrometry
Identification of novel binding partners in different cancer contexts
Pathway analysis:
Multi-antibody panels targeting SH2D3A alongside JAK1, STAT3, and other pathway components
Correlative analysis of pathway activation in patient samples
As research continues to uncover SH2D3A's roles in different cancer types and signaling pathways, antibody-based detection methods will remain essential tools for both basic research and translational applications .
Despite the availability of several SH2D3A antibodies and research tools, several methodological advances would significantly enhance SH2D3A research:
Antibody Technology Improvements:
Phospho-specific antibodies:
Highly selective monoclonal antibodies:
Further development of monoclonal antibodies with defined epitopes
Rigorous cross-reactivity testing against related SH2 domain-containing proteins
Standardization across research laboratories
Advanced Research Tools:
Genome editing validation resources:
Well-characterized CRISPR knockout cell lines for antibody validation
Isogenic cell line panels with controlled SH2D3A expression levels
Live-cell imaging tools:
SH2D3A biosensors for real-time activation monitoring
FRET-based approaches to study protein-protein interactions
Standardization Requirements:
Quantification protocols:
Standardized scoring systems for SH2D3A immunohistochemistry
Reference materials with defined SH2D3A levels for assay calibration
Reporting standards:
Detailed documentation of antibody validation methods
Comprehensive experimental protocols for reproducibility
Research Platform Integration:
Multi-omics approaches:
Integration of antibody-based protein detection with transcriptomics and genomics
Systems biology frameworks for contextualizing SH2D3A function