SLC24A4 Antibody

Introduction to SLC24A4 Antibody

SLC24A4 antibody is a laboratory reagent designed to specifically bind to and detect the SLC24A4 protein (also known as NCKX4, Sodium/potassium/calcium exchanger 4) . This antibody is predominantly used in research settings to investigate the expression, localization, and function of SLC24A4 protein across different tissue types and experimental conditions. The antibody enables researchers to study a protein that plays crucial roles in ion transport and has been implicated in various physiological processes including pigmentation regulation .

SLC24A4 antibody products are available from multiple commercial suppliers with various specifications to accommodate different research needs. These antibodies are typically produced in rabbits as polyclonal antibodies, though specifications may vary between manufacturers .

Target Protein Overview

SLC24A4 (Solute Carrier Family 24 Member 4) is a transmembrane protein that belongs to the sodium/potassium/calcium exchanger family. The protein functions by transporting one calcium ion (Ca²⁺) and one potassium ion (K⁺) in exchange for four sodium ions (Na⁺) . This exchange mechanism is essential for maintaining ion homeostasis in various cellular compartments.

The SLC24A4 protein has a calculated molecular weight of approximately 69 kDa, though the observed molecular weight in experimental conditions can range from 62-90 kDa depending on post-translational modifications and experimental conditions . The gene encoding SLC24A4 is located in the human genome with the NCBI Gene ID 123041 .

Validated Applications

SLC24A4 antibodies have been validated for multiple laboratory applications, enabling researchers to investigate this protein through various experimental approaches. The primary applications include:

These applications allow researchers to detect SLC24A4 protein in various sample types, including cell lysates, tissue sections, and protein extracts. Western blot analysis has identified the target protein in multiple cell lines and tissue types, including brain tissue, heart tissue, and HeLa cells .

Experimental Conditions and Protocols

For optimal results with SLC24A4 antibodies, specific experimental conditions are recommended:

For Western Blot applications, dilutions typically range from 1:500 to 1:2000, though some products allow for more dilute applications up to 1:16000 . This variation in working concentration highlights the importance of optimization for each specific experimental setup.

For immunohistochemistry applications, some suppliers recommend antigen retrieval using TE buffer (pH 9.0) or alternatively citrate buffer (pH 6.0) . The recommended dilution ranges from 1:50 to 1:500 depending on the specific antibody and application requirements.

Manufacturing and Formulation

SLC24A4 antibodies are typically produced through affinity purification methods to ensure specificity and reduce background signal . The production process generally involves:

1. Immunization of host animals (typically rabbits) with synthetic peptides derived from the SLC24A4 protein sequence

2. Collection and processing of antisera

3. Affinity purification using the immunogen peptide

4. Formulation in appropriate buffer systems for stability and performance

The final antibody products are commonly formulated in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) containing preservatives and stabilizers such as:

• Glycerol (typically 50%) for cryoprotection

• Sodium azide (0.01-0.02%) as a preservative

• Some formulations include bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a stabilizer, though "Azide and BSA Free" options are available for sensitive applications

Biological Relevance of the Target

Research involving SLC24A4 antibodies has contributed to understanding the biological roles of the SLC24A4 protein. This protein's function as a sodium/potassium/calcium exchanger is critical for cellular ion homeostasis in various tissues.

Genetic studies have linked variations in the SLC24A4 gene to skin/hair/eye pigmentation type 6 (SHEP6) , highlighting its potential role in determining pigmentation phenotypes. This connection makes SLC24A4 a subject of interest in dermatological and ophthalmological research.

The protein has been detected in multiple tissues, with notable expression in:

• Brain tissue

• Heart tissue

• Eye tissue

These expression patterns suggest tissue-specific functions that may be relevant to understanding both normal physiology and pathological conditions.

Research and Publication Record

SLC24A4 antibodies have been cited in multiple scientific publications, particularly in Western blot applications . The research using these antibodies spans various fields, including:

• Basic molecular biology investigations of ion transport mechanisms

• Studies of pigmentation genetics and phenotypes

• Tissue-specific expression analysis

Published research utilizing these antibodies has helped establish the expression patterns and functional roles of SLC24A4 across different experimental systems and model organisms.

Market Overview

As of March 2025, multiple manufacturers produce and supply SLC24A4 antibodies for research use. The commercial landscape includes established suppliers such as:

• Bio-Techne/Novus Biologicals (catalog # NBP2-93198)

• Sigma-Aldrich (catalog # SAB4500325)

• Boster Biological Technology (catalog # A06104-1)

• Proteintech (catalog # 18992-1-AP)

• Additional suppliers including Aviva Systems Biology and MyBioSource

This diversity of suppliers offers researchers multiple options when selecting SLC24A4 antibodies for specific applications.

Selection Considerations

When choosing an SLC24A4 antibody for research applications, several key factors should be considered:

1. Validated applications: Ensure the antibody has been validated for your specific application (WB, IHC, ELISA, etc.)

2. Species reactivity: Verify compatibility with your experimental model (human, mouse, rat, or other species)

3. Immunogen information: Consider the region of the protein used as immunogen, as this affects epitope recognition

4. Formulation requirements: Some applications may require specific formulations (e.g., azide-free, BSA-free)

5. Validation data: Review available data showing specificity and performance in relevant applications

6. Publication record: Consider antibodies with established track records in peer-reviewed publications

These considerations help ensure selection of appropriate reagents for specific research objectives.

Validation Methodologies

Manufacturers employ various validation methods to confirm the specificity and functionality of SLC24A4 antibodies. These typically include:

• Western blot analysis using positive control samples (e.g., Raw 264.7 cells, mouse brain tissue, HeLa cells)

• Immunohistochemistry on tissue sections known to express the target protein

• Validation across multiple reactive species to confirm cross-reactivity claims

• Determination of optimal working dilutions for different applications

These validation processes help ensure that antibodies perform as expected in laboratory settings and produce reliable, reproducible results.

Quality Assurance

Quality control measures for SLC24A4 antibodies typically include:

• Batch-to-batch consistency testing

• Specificity verification using positive and negative control samples

• Application-specific performance testing

• Stability testing under recommended storage conditions

Many suppliers provide certificates of analysis (COA) for specific lots or batches, allowing researchers to review quality control data for their specific product . These quality assurance processes contribute to the reliability of research findings generated using these antibodies.