SLC39A4 Antibody, HRP conjugated

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Description

Table 1: Applications of SLC39A4 Antibody, HRP-conjugated

ApplicationSample TypeDilution RangeKey Findings
Western BlotCell lysates (Hepa 1-6, D3 cells)1:1,000Detects ~80 kDa band under reducing conditions .
Flow CytometryHepa 1-6 cells1 µg/mLMembrane localization under low zinc conditions .
IHC (Frozen)Mouse small intestine10 µg/mLLocalizes to intestinal epithelial cells .
ELISAHuman serum/plasmaCustomQuantitative zinc transporter analysis using biotin-streptavidin-HRP .

Role in Cancer Biology

  • Pancreatic Cancer: SLC39A4 overexpression correlates with tumor progression and chemoresistance. Silencing SLC39A4 reduced EMT markers (N-cadherin, FSP-1) and enhanced cisplatin sensitivity .

  • Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): High SLC39A4 expression predicts poor survival (HR = 3.067, P = 0.019) and promotes metastasis via zinc-dependent EMT activation .

Zinc Homeostasis Mechanisms

  • SLC39A4 cycles between endosomes (high zinc) and plasma membrane (low zinc) to regulate cellular zinc uptake .

  • Proteolytic processing generates a 35 kDa soluble fragment and 37 kDa membrane-bound fragment under zinc-deficient conditions .

Table 2: Cross-Reactivity and Performance

Antibody SourceReactivityValidation Data
R&D Systems (AF7315)Mouse, Rat, HumanWB, Flow Cytometry, IHC with secondary HRP-conjugated antibodies .
Proteintech (20625-1-AP)Human, MouseDetects endogenous ZIP4 in pancreatic cancer cell lines (60 kDa band) .
GeneTex (GTX130285)HumanValidated in WB using HepG2 and HeLa lysates .

Technical Considerations

  • Storage: Stable at -20°C to -70°C; avoid freeze-thaw cycles .

  • Controls: Include zinc-treated vs. zinc-deprived cells to validate membrane trafficking .

  • Limitations: Non-specific bands may appear at ~50 kDa without optimized blocking .

Future Directions

  • Development of isoform-specific antibodies to distinguish splice variants (e.g., 16 aa substitution variant) .

  • Exploration of SLC39A4 as a therapeutic target in zinc-deficient cancers .

Product Specs

Buffer
Preservative: 0.03% Proclin 300
Constituents: 50% Glycerol, 0.01M PBS, pH 7.4
Form
Liquid
Lead Time
Typically, we are able to ship products within 1-3 business days after receiving your order. Delivery timelines may vary depending on the method of purchase and location. For specific delivery timeframes, we recommend contacting your local distributor.
Synonyms
SLC39A4; ZIP4; Zinc transporter ZIP4; Solute carrier family 39 member 4; Zrt- and Irt-like protein 4; ZIP-4
Target Names
SLC39A4
Uniprot No.

Target Background

Function
SLC39A4 plays a crucial role in cellular zinc homeostasis as a zinc transporter. Its expression is regulated in response to zinc availability.
Gene References Into Functions
  1. Research has shown a decrease in the expression of Zn uptake transporters ZIP2 and ZIP4 at both the mRNA and protein levels, correlating with SHANK3 expression levels. Reduced levels of ZIP4 protein were also observed co-localizing with SHANK3 at the plasma membrane. ZIP4 exists in a complex with SHANK3. Further findings have confirmed a link between enterocytic SHANK3, ZIP2 and ZIP4. PMID: 28345660
  2. The expression of zinc transporters ZIP4, ZIP14 and ZnT9 in hepatic carcinogenesis has been studied using immunohistochemical techniques. PMID: 29895370
  3. Exosomal ZIP4 has been shown to promote cancer growth and is a promising novel diagnostic biomarker for pancreatic cancer. PMID: 30007115
  4. Structural insights into the extracellular domain of ZIP4, which is critical for optimal zinc transport, have been uncovered. PMID: 27321477
  5. ZIP4 plays a regulatory role in human epidermal homeostasis in patients with acrodermatitis enteropathica. PMID: 27940220
  6. ZIP4 and intracellular zinc have been found to play essential roles in tumoral growth in oral squamous cell carcinoma. PMID: 28017725
  7. A case report has documented a heterozygote mutation in SLC39A4 resulting in acrodermatitis enteropathica. PMID: 26351177
  8. Data suggests that silencing of the zinc transporter ZIP4 resulted in increased bone tissue mineral density and restoration of bone strength. PMID: 26305676
  9. The zinc binding properties of the large intracellular loop of hZIP4 have been investigated. PMID: 25882556
  10. Research has revealed a previously uncharacterized role of ZIP4 in apoptosis resistance and elucidated a novel pathway through which ZIP4 regulates pancreatic cancer growth. PMID: 24553114
  11. In glioma tumors, high ZIP4 expression was significantly associated with higher grade. PMID: 25921144
  12. A structural model of ZIP4 has been developed by combining protein prediction methods with in situ experiments. Insights into the permeation pathway of ZIP4 are provided. PMID: 25971965
  13. Mutations in SLC39A4 have been implicated in zinc deficiency. PMID: 25391167
  14. Both acrodermatitis mutations cause the absence of ZIP4 transporter cell surface expression and nearly absent zinc uptake. PMID: 24586184
  15. ZIP4 activates the zinc-dependent transcription factor CREB and requires this transcription factor to increase miR-373 expression through the regulation of its promoter. PMID: 23857777
  16. High ZIP4 expression is associated with glioma. PMID: 23595627
  17. Results indicate that ZIP4 is the only zinc transporter that is significantly up-regulated in pancreatic cancer and might be the major zinc transporter that plays a crucial role in pancreatic cancer growth. PMID: 23331012
  18. The findings suggest that ZIP4 may be a tumor suppressor gene and down-regulation of ZIP4 may be a critical early event in the development of prostate carcinoma. PMID: 21803616
  19. Expression of two Zn(2+) influx transporters, ZIP2 and ZIP4, is reduced as a function of retinal pigment epithelium age. PMID: 21603979
  20. Zinc, copper(II), and nickel can be transported by human ZIP4 when the cation concentration is in the micromolar range; nickel can bind to but is not transported by human ZIP4. PMID: 22242765
  21. The transporter ZIP4 is expressed throughout the gastrointestinal tract and serves as a major processor of dietary zinc. PMID: 21462106
  22. GSPE and EGCG have been shown to enhance the expression of cellular zinc importers ZIP4 (SLC39A4). PMID: 20471814
  23. Cell migration assays have demonstrated that RNAi knockdown of Zip4 in Hepa cells suppressed in vitro migration, while forced overexpression in Hepa cells and MCF-7 cells enhanced in vitro migration. PMID: 20957146
  24. Zinc has the ability to regulate the mRNA expression of ZIP4 in Caco2 cells. PMID: 16986515
  25. Overexpression of ZIP4 has been shown to cause significantly increased expression of NRP-1, VEGF, MMP-2 and MMP-9 and is associated with angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis pathways in pancreatic cancer. PMID: 20023433
  26. ZIP4 overexpression leads to increased IL-6 transcription through CREB, which in turn activates STAT3 and results in increased cyclin D1 expression. PMID: 20160059
  27. A novel member of the zinc transporter family, hZIP4, has been identified as being defective in acrodermatitis enteropathica. PMID: 12032886
  28. SLC39A4 has been found to be centrally involved in the pathogenesis of acrodermatitis enteropathica. PMID: 12068297
  29. Three novel mutations, 1017ins53, which creates a premature termination codon, and two missense mutations, R95C and Q303H, have been discovered. PMID: 12787121
  30. The temporal and spatial patterns of expression of the mouse ZIP1, 3, 4, and 5 genes in the developing intestine and the effects of maternal dietary zinc deficiency on these patterns of expression have been examined. PMID: 16682017
  31. Ubiquitin-mediated degradation of the ZIP4 protein is critical for regulating zinc homeostasis in response to the upper tier of physiological zinc concentrations. PMID: 17202136
  32. Targeting ZIP4 presents a potential therapeutic strategy for controlling pancreatic cancer growth. PMID: 18003899
  33. Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in SLC39A4, which encodes the tissue-specific zinc transporter ZIP4. PMID: 18328205
  34. The clinical manifestations in three acrodermatitis enteropathica patients with a novel mutation have been investigated. PMID: 19416242
  35. Findings suggest that exon 9 in the SLC39A4 gene encompassing c.1438G should be screened first in the molecular diagnosis of Japanese patients with Acrodermatitis Enteropathic. PMID: 19416256
  36. Knocking down ZIP4 using short hairpin RNA might be a novel treatment approach for pancreatic cancers with ZIP4 overexpression. PMID: 19755388

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Database Links

HGNC: 17129

OMIM: 201100

KEGG: hsa:55630

STRING: 9606.ENSP00000301305

UniGene: Hs.521934

Involvement In Disease
Acrodermatitis enteropathica, zinc-deficiency type (AEZ)
Protein Families
ZIP transporter (TC 2.A.5) family
Subcellular Location
Cell membrane; Multi-pass membrane protein. Recycling endosome membrane; Multi-pass membrane protein. Note=Colocalized with TFRC in the recycling endosomes. Cycles between endosomal compartments and the plasma membrane in response to zinc availability.
Tissue Specificity
Highly expressed in kidney, small intestine, stomach, colon, jejunum and duodenum.

Q&A

What is SLC39A4 and why is it important in research?

SLC39A4, also known as ZIP4, is a zinc transporter that plays a crucial role in zinc homeostasis within mammalian cells . This membrane protein is encoded by the SLC39A4 gene and is primarily expressed in the small intestine, particularly in intestinal epithelial cells, as well as in liver and pancreatic tissues . ZIP4 is essential for dietary zinc absorption, and mutations in SLC39A4 are associated with the rare autosomal recessive disorder acrodermatitis enteropathica, characterized by zinc deficiency. Research on SLC39A4 is important for understanding zinc transport mechanisms, nutritional disorders, and cancer research, as abnormal ZIP4 expression has been implicated in various cancer types, including pancreatic and liver cancers .

What detection methods can be used with SLC39A4 antibodies?

SLC39A4 antibodies can be utilized in multiple detection methods, depending on research requirements. The most common applications include:

  • Western Blotting (WB): Effective at dilutions ranging from 1:500-1:4000, depending on the specific antibody

  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Typically used at dilutions around 1:10000

  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Generally effective at dilutions between 1:50-1:500

  • Flow Cytometry: Demonstrated with specific antibodies such as Goat Anti-Mouse SLC39A4

  • Immunofluorescence (IF): Both cellular and tissue applications

  • Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP): For studying protein-protein interactions

Each application requires optimization of antibody concentration and conditions for specific experimental systems and sample types.

How can I optimize western blot detection of SLC39A4 protein across different tissue types?

Optimizing western blot detection of SLC39A4 requires careful consideration of tissue-specific expression levels and protein characteristics. For successful detection:

  • Sample Preparation: SLC39A4 is a membrane protein that appears at approximately 80 kDa on western blots under reducing conditions . Use appropriate lysis buffers containing membrane protein solubilization agents (e.g., Immunoblot Buffer Group 1) .

  • Tissue-Specific Optimization:

    • For hepatic tissues: Hepa 1-6 mouse hepatoma cell line shows good expression and has been successfully used with 1 μg/mL of Goat Anti-Mouse SLC39A4 antibody

    • For human samples: Colo320 cells and human jejunum tissue have demonstrated positive western blot results

  • Antibody Selection and Dilution:

    • For mouse samples: Goat Anti-Mouse SLC39A4 Antigen Affinity-purified Polyclonal Antibody (Catalog # AF7315) at 1 μg/mL

    • For human samples: Anti-SLC39A4 polyclonal antibodies at dilutions of 1:1000-1:4000

  • Detection System: Use appropriate HRP-conjugated secondary antibodies matched to your primary antibody host species, such as HRP-conjugated Anti-Goat IgG for goat primary antibodies or equivalent for rabbit primary antibodies .

  • Positive Controls: Include D3 mouse embryonic stem cell line for mouse studies or Colo320 cells for human studies as positive controls to validate detection systems.

Reducing conditions are recommended based on experimental data showing successful detection of the 80 kDa SLC39A4 band under these conditions .

What are the critical considerations for developing a sandwich ELISA for quantitative detection of SLC39A4?

Developing a sandwich ELISA for SLC39A4 requires careful attention to antibody selection and protocol optimization:

  • Antibody Pair Selection:

    • Capture Antibody: Use anti-SLC39A4 antibody that recognizes a different epitope than the detection antibody. Pre-coated plates with anti-SLC39A4 antibody have been successfully used in commercial kits .

    • Detection Antibody: Biotin-conjugated anti-SLC39A4 antibody that recognizes a different epitope than the capture antibody .

  • Assay Design:

    • The standard sandwich ELISA procedure involves coating wells with capture antibody, adding samples containing SLC39A4, followed by biotin-conjugated detection antibody, and finally HRP-Streptavidin for visualization .

    • TMB (3,3',5,5'-Tetramethylbenzidine) substrate is recommended for colorimetric detection, with absorbance read at 450nm .

  • Validation Considerations:

    • Establish a standard curve using recombinant SLC39A4 protein

    • The concentration of SLC39A4 in samples is proportional to the OD450 value

    • Include appropriate positive and negative controls to ensure assay specificity

  • Optimization Parameters:

    • Antibody concentrations (typically 1:10000 dilution for ELISA applications)

    • Incubation times and temperatures

    • Washing steps to minimize background

    • Sample dilution factors to ensure measurements fall within the linear range of the standard curve

This approach enables quantitative measurement of SLC39A4 in experimental samples with high sensitivity and specificity.

How can I distinguish between different isoforms or phosphorylation states of SLC39A4 using immunological methods?

Distinguishing between SLC39A4 isoforms or post-translational modifications requires strategic antibody selection and specialized techniques:

  • Epitope-Specific Antibodies:

    • Select antibodies targeting specific regions of SLC39A4, such as N-terminal (AA 23-327, AA 26-266, AA 38-87) versus C-terminal (AA 359-408, AA 431-480) epitopes

    • Compare results from different epitope-binding antibodies to identify potential isoform differences or masked epitopes

  • Phosphorylation-State Analysis:

    • Use phospho-specific antibodies if available for SLC39A4

    • Alternatively, perform immunoprecipitation with general SLC39A4 antibodies followed by phospho-specific detection methods

    • Consider lambda phosphatase treatment of parallel samples to confirm phosphorylation-dependent signals

  • Gel Mobility Shift Analysis:

    • Run samples on Phos-tag™ acrylamide gels to separate phosphorylated from non-phosphorylated forms

    • Compare migration patterns of SLC39A4 in different samples using western blot with SLC39A4 antibodies

  • Mass Spectrometry Validation:

    • Following immunoprecipitation with SLC39A4 antibodies, analyze samples by mass spectrometry to identify specific post-translational modifications

    • Compare modifications between experimental conditions

  • 2D Gel Electrophoresis:

    • Separate proteins based on both molecular weight and isoelectric point

    • Different phosphorylation states will appear as distinct spots in the 2D pattern when probed with SLC39A4 antibodies

These approaches can reveal functional differences in SLC39A4 across different cellular contexts and experimental conditions.

What is the optimal fixation and antigen retrieval protocol for SLC39A4 immunohistochemistry in different tissue types?

The optimal fixation and antigen retrieval protocols for SLC39A4 immunohistochemistry vary by tissue type:

  • Fixation Options:

    • Frozen Sections: Immersion fixation has been successful for SLC39A4 detection in mouse small intestine

    • Paraffin-Embedded Sections: Formalin fixation is compatible with SLC39A4 detection, but requires appropriate antigen retrieval

  • Antigen Retrieval Protocols:

    • Primary Recommendation: TE buffer pH 9.0 has been validated for optimal SLC39A4 epitope exposure

    • Alternative Method: Citrate buffer pH 6.0 can also be effective, though potentially with lower signal intensity

  • Tissue-Specific Considerations:

    • Small Intestine: SLC39A4 localizes to intestinal epithelial cells and has been successfully detected in mouse small intestine using 10 μg/mL of Goat Anti-Mouse SLC39A4 antibody at 4°C overnight

    • Liver Cancer Tissue: Requires optimized antigen retrieval and has shown positive reactivity with SLC39A4 antibodies

    • Kidney Tissue: Successfully detected with anti-SLC39A4 antibodies following recommended retrieval methods

    • Pancreatic Tissue: Mouse pancreas shows detectable SLC39A4 expression with appropriate antibodies and protocols

  • Detection Systems:

    • Fluorescent Detection: NorthernLights™ 557-conjugated Anti-Goat IgG Secondary Antibody with DAPI counterstain has been validated for mouse tissues

    • Chromogenic Detection: HRP-conjugated secondary antibodies with appropriate substrates can be used as an alternative to fluorescence

Optimization might be required for each specific tissue type, with initial IHC dilutions ranging from 1:50-1:500 depending on the antibody used .

How can I validate the specificity of an SLC39A4 antibody for my experimental system?

Validating SLC39A4 antibody specificity is crucial for experimental rigor. A comprehensive validation approach includes:

  • Positive and Negative Control Tissues/Cells:

    • Positive Controls: Use tissues/cells known to express SLC39A4, such as:

      • Hepa 1-6 mouse hepatoma cell line

      • D3 mouse embryonic stem cell line

      • Human jejunum tissue

      • Colo320 cells

    • Negative Controls: Use tissues with minimal SLC39A4 expression or knockout/knockdown systems

  • Peptide Competition Assay:

    • Pre-incubate the antibody with excess immunogen peptide (e.g., synthetic peptide from human SLC39A4 amino acids 431-480 or N-terminus )

    • Compare staining between blocked and unblocked antibody samples

    • Specific signals should be significantly reduced or eliminated in blocked samples

  • Knockdown/Knockout Validation:

    • Use siRNA, shRNA, or CRISPR/Cas9 to reduce/eliminate SLC39A4 expression

    • Compare antibody signal between wildtype and knockdown/knockout samples

    • Several publications have validated SLC39A4 antibodies using knockdown/knockout approaches

  • Cross-Reactivity Assessment:

    • Test antibody reactivity across species of interest

    • Consider sequence homology: human SLC39A4 shows 100% identity with gorilla, 92% with gibbon and marmoset, and 85% with bovine orthologs

  • Multiple Antibody Comparison:

    • Use antibodies targeting different epitopes of SLC39A4 (N-term vs. C-term)

    • Consistent results across antibodies support specificity for the target protein

  • Western Blot Validation:

    • Confirm detection of a single band at the expected molecular weight (~80 kDa)

    • Absence of non-specific bands further supports antibody specificity

These validation steps ensure experimental findings are reliably attributed to SLC39A4 biology rather than antibody artifacts.

What are the key considerations for multiplex immunofluorescence studies including SLC39A4?

When designing multiplex immunofluorescence studies that include SLC39A4 detection, researchers should consider:

  • Antibody Selection and Compatibility:

    • Host Species Consideration: Select primary antibodies raised in different host species to avoid cross-reactivity during detection (e.g., goat anti-mouse SLC39A4 can be combined with rabbit antibodies against other targets)

    • Isotype Differences: When using antibodies from the same host species, select different isotypes and use isotype-specific secondary antibodies

    • Validated Applications: Confirm each antibody has been validated for immunofluorescence (IF) applications

  • Fluorophore Selection:

    • Spectral Separation: Choose fluorophores with minimal spectral overlap (e.g., NorthernLights™ 557 for SLC39A4 can be paired with fluorophores in far-red or blue channels)

    • Target Abundance Matching: Assign brighter fluorophores to less abundant targets and vice versa

    • Autofluorescence Consideration: Select fluorophores outside the autofluorescence spectrum of the tissue being studied

  • Staining Protocol Optimization:

    • Sequential vs. Simultaneous: Determine whether antibodies should be applied sequentially or simultaneously

    • Blocking Strategy: Implement robust blocking steps to minimize non-specific binding

    • Order of Application: Apply antibodies in order of decreasing sensitivity when using sequential staining

  • Controls for Multiplex Studies:

    • Single-Color Controls: Stain separate sections with each antibody alone to confirm signal specificity and absence of bleed-through

    • Minus-Primary Controls: Omit each primary antibody sequentially to confirm secondary antibody specificity

    • Absorption Controls: Pre-absorb antibodies with respective antigens to confirm specificity

  • Cellular Localization:

    • SLC39A4 Localization Pattern: Expect membranous and/or cytoplasmic staining patterns in positive cells

    • Counterstain Selection: DAPI nuclear counterstain has been validated with SLC39A4 immunofluorescence

    • Resolution Requirements: Consider confocal microscopy for precise subcellular localization studies

  • Image Acquisition and Analysis:

    • Sequential Scanning: Acquire images for each fluorophore sequentially to minimize crosstalk

    • Threshold Setting: Set consistent thresholds for positivity across experimental groups

    • Colocalization Analysis: Use appropriate software and statistical methods for colocalization studies

Successful multiplex studies can reveal relationships between SLC39A4 expression and other markers of interest in a spatial context.

How can I resolve weak or absent signal when detecting SLC39A4 by western blot?

When encountering weak or absent SLC39A4 signal in western blot applications, consider these troubleshooting steps:

  • Sample Preparation Optimization:

    • Membrane Protein Extraction: SLC39A4 is a transmembrane protein and requires appropriate lysis conditions. Use buffers containing 1-2% non-ionic detergents (e.g., Triton X-100, NP-40)

    • Protease Inhibitors: Always include fresh protease inhibitor cocktail to prevent degradation

    • Sample Handling: Minimize freeze-thaw cycles and maintain samples on ice during processing

    • Protein Loading: Increase total protein loaded (30-50μg may be necessary for tissues with lower expression)

  • Antibody Optimization:

    • Concentration Adjustment: Increase primary antibody concentration if using below recommended range (try 1:500 for human applications or 2-5 μg/mL for mouse applications )

    • Incubation Time: Extend primary antibody incubation to overnight at 4°C

    • Blocking Buffer Composition: Test different blocking agents (BSA vs. non-fat milk) to reduce background while preserving signal

    • Secondary Antibody Matching: Ensure secondary antibody is appropriate for the host species of primary antibody

  • Detection System Enhancement:

    • Signal Amplification: Consider using more sensitive detection systems (e.g., enhanced chemiluminescence plus or super signal reagents)

    • Exposure Time: Increase exposure time during imaging

    • Membrane Selection: PVDF membranes have been successfully used for SLC39A4 detection

  • Protocol Modifications:

    • Reducing Conditions: Confirm samples are prepared under reducing conditions as demonstrated for successful detection of 80 kDa SLC39A4

    • Transfer Efficiency: For this higher molecular weight protein (~80 kDa), extend transfer time or reduce voltage to improve transfer efficiency

    • Buffer Compatibility: Use Immunoblot Buffer Group 1 as successfully demonstrated in published protocols

  • Positive Control Inclusion:

    • Validated Cell Lines: Include Hepa 1-6 mouse hepatoma cell line, D3 mouse embryonic stem cell line , or Colo320 cells as positive controls

    • Recombinant Protein: Consider including recombinant SLC39A4 protein as a positive control

If signal remains problematic after these adjustments, consider testing an alternative SLC39A4 antibody targeting a different epitope.

What strategies can address non-specific binding or high background in SLC39A4 immunohistochemistry?

Non-specific binding and high background in SLC39A4 immunohistochemistry can be addressed through these targeted strategies:

  • Blocking Optimization:

    • Extended Blocking: Increase blocking duration to 1-2 hours at room temperature

    • Blocking Buffer Composition: Test different blocking agents (e.g., 5% normal serum from the same species as the secondary antibody, 3-5% BSA, or commercial blocking solutions)

    • Add 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 to blocking solution to reduce hydrophobic interactions

  • Antibody Dilution and Incubation:

    • Titration Series: Test a range of primary antibody dilutions (e.g., 1:50-1:500) to identify optimal signal-to-noise ratio

    • Temperature Control: Compare room temperature versus 4°C overnight incubation

    • Washing Stringency: Increase number and duration of washes with 0.1% Tween-20 in PBS between steps

  • Tissue-Specific Considerations:

    • Endogenous Peroxidase Block: For HRP-based detection systems, block endogenous peroxidase activity with 0.3-3% H₂O₂ in methanol prior to antibody application

    • Antigen Retrieval Optimization: Compare TE buffer pH 9.0 (recommended) versus citrate buffer pH 6.0 (alternative)

    • Autofluorescence Reduction: For immunofluorescence, treat sections with Sudan Black B or commercial autofluorescence quenchers

  • Secondary Antibody Considerations:

    • Pre-absorption: Consider using pre-absorbed secondary antibodies to reduce cross-reactivity

    • Minimize Cross-Reactivity: Select secondary antibodies specifically tested for minimal cross-reactivity with tissues being examined

    • Dilution Optimization: Test more dilute secondary antibody concentrations

  • Control Implementations:

    • No Primary Control: Include a control section with secondary antibody only to identify non-specific secondary binding

    • Isotype Control: Use matched isotype control antibody at the same concentration as the primary antibody

    • Peptide Competition: Pre-incubate primary antibody with immunizing peptide to confirm specificity

  • Detection System Modifications:

    • Substrate Development Time: For chromogenic detection, optimize development time to maximize signal while minimizing background

    • Alternative Detection Systems: If using ABC/HRP systems, consider polymer-based detection systems which can offer improved specificity

For mouse tissues, successful staining has been achieved using 10 μg/mL of antibody with overnight incubation at 4°C , while human tissues may require optimization within the 1:50-1:500 dilution range .

How can SLC39A4 antibodies be applied to study zinc transport mechanisms in disease models?

SLC39A4 antibodies provide powerful tools for investigating zinc transport mechanisms in various disease models:

  • Expression Analysis Across Disease States:

    • Cancer Research: Compare SLC39A4 expression levels between normal and cancerous tissues using immunohistochemistry. Positive staining has been demonstrated in liver cancer tissues, suggesting potential roles in cancer progression

    • Nutrient Deficiency Models: Monitor SLC39A4 upregulation in response to zinc deficiency using western blot (1:1000-1:4000 dilution)

    • Inflammatory Conditions: Assess SLC39A4 regulation during inflammation using immunofluorescence on tissue sections

  • Subcellular Localization Studies:

    • Trafficking Analysis: Track SLC39A4 localization between plasma membrane and intracellular compartments using immunofluorescence

    • Polarized Cells: Determine apical versus basolateral distribution in polarized epithelial cells from small intestine, where SLC39A4 plays crucial physiological roles

    • Response to Stimuli: Monitor changes in localization following zinc availability fluctuations or disease-relevant stimuli

  • Protein-Protein Interaction Studies:

    • Co-immunoprecipitation: Identify SLC39A4-interacting proteins using antibodies validated for Co-IP applications

    • Proximity Ligation Assay: Visualize and quantify interactions between SLC39A4 and potential binding partners in situ

    • Pull-down Assays: Isolate SLC39A4 protein complexes from disease model systems

  • Functional Correlation Studies:

    • Zinc Transport Assays: Correlate SLC39A4 expression/localization with zinc uptake using fluorescent zinc probes and immunostaining

    • Genetic Models: Compare phenotypes in SLC39A4 knockout/knockdown models with protein expression patterns in rescued systems

    • Therapeutic Response: Monitor SLC39A4 expression changes in response to therapeutic interventions

  • Biomarker Development:

    • Tissue Microarrays: Evaluate SLC39A4 as a potential prognostic marker across large sample sets

    • Liquid Biopsies: Develop ELISA-based detection (1:10000 dilution) of shed or secreted SLC39A4 in biological fluids

    • Correlation Analysis: Relate SLC39A4 expression patterns to clinical outcomes and therapeutic responses

These applications can provide crucial insights into how zinc transport dysregulation contributes to disease pathogenesis, potentially identifying new therapeutic targets.

What approaches can be used to quantitatively measure changes in SLC39A4 expression across experimental conditions?

Quantitative measurement of SLC39A4 expression changes requires rigorous methodological approaches:

  • Western Blot Densitometry:

    • Sample Preparation: Standardize protein extraction methods across experimental conditions

    • Loading Controls: Normalize SLC39A4 signal to appropriate loading controls (β-actin, GAPDH, or Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase for membrane proteins)

    • Antibody Concentration: Use consistent antibody dilutions within the linear detection range (1:1000-1:4000)

    • Software Analysis: Use calibrated imaging and analysis software (ImageJ, Image Lab, etc.) for densitometric quantification

    • Statistical Validation: Perform experiments in biological triplicates with appropriate statistical analysis

  • ELISA-Based Quantification:

    • Standard Curve Generation: Create a standard curve using recombinant SLC39A4 protein

    • Sample Dilution Series: Test multiple sample dilutions to ensure measurements fall within the linear range of detection

    • Antibody Optimization: Use recommended 1:10000 dilution for ELISA applications

    • Data Normalization: Normalize results to total protein concentration

    • Colorimetric Detection: Measure absorbance at 450nm as recommended for TMB substrate

  • Flow Cytometry:

    • Single Cell Analysis: Quantify SLC39A4 expression at the single-cell level in populations

    • Comparative Analysis: Generate histograms comparing expression between control (open histogram) and experimental conditions (filled histogram)

    • Median Fluorescence Intensity: Calculate median fluorescence intensity rather than mean for more robust quantification

    • Controls: Include isotype controls (e.g., Catalog # AB-108-C) to establish baseline

  • Quantitative Immunohistochemistry/Immunofluorescence:

    • Digital Image Analysis: Use software to quantify staining intensity and distribution

    • Standardized Acquisition: Maintain consistent exposure settings across all experimental groups

    • Threshold Setting: Establish objective thresholds for positive versus negative staining

    • Spatial Analysis: Quantify subcellular localization changes and membrane/cytoplasmic ratios

  • Quantitative PCR Correlation:

    • Parallel Analysis: Correlate protein-level changes measured by antibodies with mRNA expression

    • Multi-level Regulation: Identify discrepancies between transcript and protein levels indicating post-transcriptional regulation

    • Validation Approach: Use qPCR as an orthogonal validation method for antibody-based findings

These approaches, particularly when used in combination, provide robust quantification of SLC39A4 expression changes in response to experimental manipulations or disease states.

What are the emerging research directions for SLC39A4 antibody applications in biomedical research?

Emerging research directions for SLC39A4 antibody applications span several exciting frontiers in biomedical research:

  • Single-Cell Analysis Technologies:

    • Single-Cell Western Blotting: Detecting SLC39A4 expression heterogeneity within seemingly homogeneous populations

    • Mass Cytometry (CyTOF): Incorporating SLC39A4 antibodies into metal-tagged antibody panels for high-dimensional analysis

    • Spatial Transcriptomics Integration: Correlating protein-level SLC39A4 detection with spatial gene expression patterns

  • Advanced Imaging Applications:

    • Super-Resolution Microscopy: Using fluorophore-conjugated SLC39A4 antibodies for nanoscale localization studies

    • Intravital Microscopy: Tracking SLC39A4 dynamics in living tissues using minimally invasive imaging

    • Light-Sheet Microscopy: Visualizing SLC39A4 distribution across entire organs with cellular resolution

  • Therapeutic Monitoring and Development:

    • Theranostic Applications: Developing dual-purpose SLC39A4 antibodies for both imaging and therapeutic delivery

    • Companion Diagnostics: Using SLC39A4 antibodies to predict response to zinc homeostasis-targeting therapies

    • Clinical Trial Stratification: Employing standardized SLC39A4 immunoassays for patient selection and response monitoring

  • Structural Biology Integration:

    • Epitope Mapping: Using antibody panels targeting different SLC39A4 epitopes to validate structural models

    • Conformational State Detection: Developing antibodies that recognize specific functional states of the transporter

    • Cryo-EM Facilitation: Utilizing antibodies as fiducial markers for structural studies

  • Systems Biology Approaches:

    • Multi-parametric Analysis: Incorporating SLC39A4 antibodies into multiplexed antibody panels for comprehensive zinc transport network analysis

    • Pathway Reconstruction: Using protein-protein interaction data from Co-IP with SLC39A4 antibodies to build zinc regulatory networks

    • Integrative Multi-omics: Correlating antibody-based proteomics with genomics, transcriptomics, and metallomics data

The continued refinement of SLC39A4 antibodies with enhanced specificity, sensitivity, and application versatility will further enable these emerging research directions, ultimately advancing our understanding of zinc transport biology in health and disease.

How should researchers integrate multiple detection methods when studying SLC39A4 function?

Integrating multiple detection methods provides comprehensive insights into SLC39A4 function through complementary data layers:

  • Validation Through Methodological Triangulation:

    • Cross-Validation Strategy: Confirm key findings using at least three independent detection methods

    • Technique Selection Matrix:

    Research QuestionPrimary MethodSecondary MethodTertiary Method
    Expression LevelWestern Blot (1:1000-1:4000) ELISA (1:10000) IHC (1:50-1:500)
    Subcellular LocalizationImmunofluorescenceCell Fractionation + WBElectron Microscopy
    Protein InteractionsCo-IP Proximity LigationFRET/BRET
    Functional ActivityZinc Transport AssaysExpression-Function CorrelationStructure-Function Studies
  • Sequential Analytical Workflow:

    • Initial Screening: Begin with higher-throughput methods (e.g., ELISA) to identify experimental conditions of interest

    • Detailed Characterization: Follow with more specific methods (Western blot, IHC) on selected samples

    • Mechanistic Investigation: Apply specialized techniques (Co-IP, live cell imaging) to elucidate functional mechanisms

    • Validation in Models: Confirm findings in physiologically relevant systems using antibodies validated across species

  • Integrative Data Analysis:

    • Correlation Analysis: Quantitatively relate data from different detection methods

    • Multivariate Modeling: Develop integrated models incorporating protein expression, localization, and functional data

    • Temporal Resolution: Combine methods with different temporal capabilities to build dynamic models of SLC39A4 regulation

  • Technology-Specific Contributions:

    • Western Blot: Provides molecular weight validation and semi-quantitative expression data

    • IHC/IF: Offers spatial context and cell-type specific information

    • Flow Cytometry: Enables population-level statistical analysis and sorting for downstream applications

    • ELISA: Provides absolute quantification capabilities

    • Co-IP: Identifies protein interaction networks

  • Standardization and Reporting:

    • Consistent Antibodies: Use the same validated antibody across multiple detection platforms when possible

    • Normalized Reporting: Standardize how data is normalized and reported across methods

    • Comprehensive Methods Documentation: Report detailed methodological parameters for each technique to ensure reproducibility

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