SSBP3 (Single-Stranded DNA Binding Protein 3) Antibody conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) is a polyclonal antibody designed for detecting SSBP3 in human samples. This antibody targets amino acids 185–321 of SSBP3, a protein involved in transcriptional regulation and DNA binding, particularly in collagen gene promoters . FITC conjugation allows fluorescence-based detection in assays such as immunofluorescence (IF), flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) .
SSBP3 binds single-stranded polypyrimidine DNA sequences in promoter regions, such as those in the collagen α2(I) gene, to modulate transcription . Studies show that SSBP3 stabilizes LIM-domain-binding protein 1 (Ldb1) in transcriptional complexes, enhancing their DNA-binding affinity and activity . For example, in αT3-1 pituitary cells, SSBP3 increased recruitment of Ldb1-Lhx2 complexes to the Cga promoter, boosting transcriptional activity by 3–5 fold .
Overexpression Effects: Forced expression of SSBP3 in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) upregulated trophoblast lineage markers (e.g., Cdx2, Elf5) by >10-fold while maintaining pluripotency factors (e.g., Oct4, Sox2) at baseline levels .
Mechanistic Impact: SSBP3 activated MAPK/Erk1/2 and TGF-β pathways, reduced methylation of the Elf5 promoter, and promoted teratoma formation with hemorrhagic regions (indicative of trophoblast differentiation) .
Western Blot (WB): Detects SSBP3 at ~38 kDa in human and mouse lysates .
IHC/IF: Validated in studies tracking SSBP3 localization in brain tissues and differentiating ESCs .
SSBP3 (Single-stranded DNA-binding protein 3) belongs to a small family of transcriptional coregulators (including SSBP2-SSBP4) that directly bind to the LCCD domain of Ldb1 and mediate LIM factor complex stability and function . The protein was originally identified by homology to SSDP, a chicken ortholog shown to bind pyrimidine-rich elements within promoter regions . SSBP3 plays critical roles in transcriptional regulation, particularly in the regulation of genes such as alpha 2(I) collagen where it binds to single-stranded polypyrimidine sequences in the promoter region . Recent research has demonstrated that SSBP3 interacts with Ldb1 and Isl1 in pancreatic β-cells, suggesting its importance in maintaining β-cell function . Additionally, SSBP3 has been identified as a regulator for mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) to differentiate into trophoblast-like cells .
The SSBP3 Antibody with FITC conjugation has the following specifications:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Target | Single-stranded DNA-binding protein 3 (SSBP3) |
| Clonality | Polyclonal |
| Host | Rabbit |
| Reactivity | Human |
| Conjugation | FITC |
| Excitation/Emission | 499/515 nm |
| Laser Line | 488 nm |
| Immunogen | Recombinant Human SSBP3 protein (185-321 AA) |
| Isotype | IgG |
| Form | Liquid |
| Purity | > 95% |
| Purification Method | Protein G chromatography |
| UniProt ID | Q9BWW4 |
The antibody is supplied in a buffer containing 0.01 M PBS, pH 7.4, 0.03% Proclin-300, and 50% glycerol .
For optimal preservation of antibody activity, the SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated should be aliquoted upon receipt and stored at -20°C . Repeated freeze/thaw cycles should be avoided as they can compromise antibody integrity and fluorophore stability . The glycerol in the buffer (50%) helps prevent complete freezing at -20°C, which reduces damage during freeze/thaw cycles. When planning experiments, it's advisable to thaw only the amount needed for immediate use and keep the working aliquot protected from light to prevent photobleaching of the FITC fluorophore.
Research has demonstrated that SSBP3 is a critical component of Ldb1-Isl1 regulatory complexes in pancreatic β-cells . The interaction was confirmed using reversible cross-link immunoprecipitation (ReCLIP) and mass spectrometry in βTC-3 cell lines, as well as in mouse and human islets . This interaction appears to be crucial for the expression of key β-cell target genes.
Mechanistically, SSBP3:
Co-occupies known Ldb1-Isl1 target promoters, including MafA and Glp1r
Contributes to large regulatory complexes with Ldb1 and Isl1 (confirmed by sucrose sedimentation data)
Supports similar gene expression patterns as Ldb1, as knockdown of SSBP3 imparts mRNA deficiencies similar to those observed upon Ldb1 reduction
These findings suggest that SSBP3 functions as a stabilizing factor in transcriptional complexes, potentially enhancing DNA binding specificity or modulating the activity of other transcriptional regulators within the complex.
SSBP3 has been identified as a regulator for mouse embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation into trophoblast-like cells . Forced expression of Ssbp3 in mouse ESCs upregulates expression levels of lineage-associated genes, with trophoblast cell markers showing the highest elevation . Conversely, depletion of Ssbp3 attenuates the expression of trophoblast lineage marker genes that would normally be induced by downregulation of Oct4 or treatment with BMP4 and bFGF in ESCs .
Interestingly, global gene expression profiling analysis indicated that Ssbp3 overexpression does not significantly alter the transcript levels of pluripotency-associated transcription factors . Instead, Ssbp3 promotes the expression of early trophectoderm transcription factors such as Cdx2 and activates MAPK/Erk1/2 and TGF-β pathways . Furthermore, overexpression of Ssbp3:
Reduces the methylation level of the Elf5 promoter
Promotes the generation of teratomas with internal hemorrhage, indicative of the presence of trophoblast cells
These findings position SSBP3 as a potential molecular switch in determining cell fate decisions during early embryonic development.
Based on published research methodologies, the following protocol has been successfully used for chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments with SSBP3 antibody:
Culture cells to appropriate density (approximately 2 × 10^6 cells per 10-cm dish)
Cross-link with 1% formaldehyde in DMEM at room temperature
Prepare protein-DNA chromatin fragments by sonication (e.g., using Bioruptor XL)
Preclear chromatin with Protein G Dynabeads for 2 hours at 4°C
Incubate precleared chromatin overnight at 4°C with:
α-SSBP3 rabbit polyclonal antibody (controls should include normal rabbit IgG or no antibody)
Precipitate antibody-bound chromatin complexes with Protein G Dynabeads at 4°C for 4 hours
Wash complexes, elute from beads, and reverse cross-links
Perform qPCR on the immunoprecipitated DNA using appropriate primers
When analyzing SSBP3 occupancy, researchers have successfully used primers for genes like MafA Region 3 and Glp1r . For proper controls, regions not expected to bind SSBP3 (like distal regions of the albumin gene) have been utilized.
While the optimal dilutions should be determined by the end user for each specific application , general guidelines for immunofluorescence experiments with SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated include:
Starting dilution recommendations:
For immunocytochemistry: 1:50 to 1:200
For flow cytometry: 1:100 to 1:500
Essential controls to include:
Isotype control: Rabbit IgG-FITC at the same concentration as the SSBP3 antibody to assess non-specific binding
Negative control: Cells known not to express SSBP3 or with SSBP3 knockdown
Blocking control: Pre-incubation of the antibody with the immunogen peptide (when available)
Secondary-only control: For experiments where a secondary antibody is used to amplify the FITC signal
The FITC conjugation has an excitation/emission profile of 499/515 nm, making it compatible with standard FITC filter sets and the 488 nm laser line commonly found in confocal microscopes and flow cytometers .
When encountering weak or nonspecific signals with SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated, researchers should consider the following troubleshooting approaches:
For weak signals:
Increase antibody concentration: Try using a higher concentration of the antibody
Optimize fixation: Different fixation methods (paraformaldehyde, methanol, acetone) can affect epitope accessibility
Enhance antigen retrieval: For tissue sections or highly cross-linked samples, optimize antigen retrieval methods
Signal amplification: Consider using anti-FITC secondary antibodies conjugated to brighter fluorophores
Reduce photobleaching: Minimize exposure to light and use anti-fade mounting media
For nonspecific signals:
Optimize blocking: Increase blocking time or try different blocking reagents (BSA, serum, commercial blockers)
Increase washing steps: More thorough or additional washing steps can reduce background
Reduce antibody concentration: Excessive antibody can increase background
Cross-adsorbed antibodies: Ensure the antibody has been cross-adsorbed against potential cross-reactive proteins
Filter samples: For flow cytometry, proper filtering of cell suspensions can reduce aggregates causing false signals
The detection of SSBP3 can vary significantly across cell types due to differences in expression levels, subcellular localization, and interactions with other proteins. Research indicates that SSBP3 is expressed in various tissues including pancreatic β-cells and embryonic stem cells .
Key considerations for experimental design across different cell types include:
Expression level variation: SSBP3 expression varies across cell types, necessitating optimization of antibody concentration for each cell type
Subcellular localization: As a transcription regulator, SSBP3 is predominantly nuclear but may show different localization patterns depending on:
Cell cycle stage
Differentiation status
Activation of specific signaling pathways
Co-expression with binding partners: Detection efficiency may be affected by the presence of SSBP3 binding partners like Ldb1 and Isl1, which could potentially mask epitopes
Fixation sensitivity: Different cell types may require distinct fixation protocols to optimally preserve SSBP3 epitopes while maintaining cellular morphology
Cell-specific autofluorescence: Some cell types (particularly those rich in NADH, flavins, or lipofuscin) exhibit higher autofluorescence in the green spectrum, potentially interfering with FITC detection
When transitioning between cell types, it is advisable to first establish positive controls using cell lines known to express high levels of SSBP3, such as βTC-3 cells or embryonic stem cells , before proceeding to cell types with unknown expression levels.
In co-localization studies involving SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated, differentiating specific signals from background requires rigorous analytical approaches:
Quantitative co-localization metrics:
Calculate Pearson's correlation coefficient (values between -1 and +1)
Determine Manders' overlap coefficient (proportion of SSBP3 signal overlapping with partner protein)
Assess spatial intensity correlation analyses
Single-labeled controls:
Perform parallel experiments with each antibody individually to assess bleed-through
Use spectral unmixing algorithms if bleed-through cannot be eliminated optically
Biological validation:
Resolution considerations:
Standard confocal microscopy has a resolution limit of ~200nm
For more precise co-localization, consider super-resolution techniques like STED, PALM, or STORM
3D analysis:
Analyze co-localization in all three dimensions rather than in single optical sections
Use specialized software (ImageJ with JACoP plugin, Imaris, etc.) for volumetric co-localization analysis
When specifically studying SSBP3's co-localization with known interaction partners like Ldb1 and Isl1, researchers should be aware that these proteins exist in large complexes as demonstrated by sucrose sedimentation data , which may affect the resolution needed to accurately assess co-localization.
When using SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated across different experimental approaches, researchers should anticipate the following typical results:
In immunofluorescence microscopy:
Predominantly nuclear localization in most cell types
Potential punctate pattern corresponding to transcriptional complexes
Co-localization with transcription factors Ldb1 and Isl1 in pancreatic β-cells
Possible cytoplasmic signal during specific cellular states or in certain cell types
In flow cytometry:
Positive population shifts when comparing to isotype controls
Heterogeneous expression levels across cell populations
Potential correlation with cell cycle phases or differentiation states
Higher expression in embryonic stem cells undergoing differentiation toward trophoblast lineage
In ChIP experiments:
Enrichment at promoter regions of target genes such as MafA and Glp1r in β-cells
Binding to pyrimidine-rich elements similar to those in the alpha 2(I) collagen promoter
Co-occupancy with Ldb1 and Isl1 at specific genomic loci
Dynamic binding patterns that may change with cellular differentiation or response to stimuli
In developmental biology studies:
Increased detection during embryonic stem cell differentiation toward trophoblast lineage
Association with changes in the methylation status of developmental genes like Elf5
Correlation with activation of MAPK/Erk1/2 and TGF-β pathways
Understanding these expected patterns helps researchers validate their results and interpret unexpected findings that may represent novel aspects of SSBP3 biology.
FITC conjugation of SSBP3 Antibody offers specific advantages and limitations compared to other fluorophores:
Application-specific considerations:
Immunofluorescence microscopy:
FITC is suitable for single-color detection but may photobleach during extended imaging
When performing multi-color imaging, FITC's emission spectrum may overlap with other green-yellow fluorophores
FITC offers good signal-to-noise ratio in fixed cells when proper blocking of autofluorescence is employed
Flow cytometry:
Multiplex imaging:
FITC can be effectively combined with red (e.g., TRITC, Cy3) and far-red (e.g., Cy5, APC) fluorophores
When detecting multiple green targets, spectral unmixing or sequential scanning may be necessary
The choice between FITC and other fluorophores should be based on the specific experimental needs, equipment specifications, and the biological question being addressed.
Direct detection using SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated offers distinct advantages and limitations compared to indirect detection methods:
Advantages:
Simplified workflow: Eliminates the need for secondary antibody incubation and washing steps
Reduced background: Minimizes potential cross-reactivity from secondary antibodies
Faster protocol: Typically saves 1-2 hours in experimental time
Improved multiplexing: Allows for simultaneous detection of multiple targets from the same host species
Defined stoichiometry: Each primary antibody carries a consistent number of fluorophores
Limitations:
Signal amplification: Direct conjugation typically provides lower signal intensity compared to indirect methods that allow for multiple secondary antibodies binding each primary antibody
Flexibility: Cannot change detection system without changing the primary antibody
Cost efficiency: More expensive for screening multiple antibody clones or dilutions
Shelf-life considerations: Conjugated antibodies may have shorter shelf-life than unconjugated versions
Epitope accessibility: The conjugation process may occasionally affect antibody binding to certain epitopes
Recommendations for specific scenarios:
For abundant targets or when minimizing background is critical: Direct detection with SSBP3-FITC
For low-abundance targets requiring signal amplification: Indirect detection with unconjugated anti-SSBP3
For multiplexing with other rabbit antibodies: Direct detection with SSBP3-FITC
For co-localization studies with Ldb1 and Isl1: Consider directly conjugated antibodies for all targets to minimize cross-reactivity
When studying SSBP3's interaction with Ldb1-Isl1 complexes in pancreatic β-cells , the direct conjugation approach may be particularly valuable for reducing background and enabling precise co-localization analysis.
SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated has significant potential applications in cutting-edge single-cell analysis platforms:
Single-cell RNA-seq combined with protein detection (CITE-seq/REAP-seq):
SSBP3-FITC could be adapted with DNA barcoding for simultaneous detection of SSBP3 protein levels alongside transcriptome analysis
This would allow correlation between SSBP3 protein expression and transcriptional states in heterogeneous populations
Particularly valuable for studying SSBP3's role in embryonic stem cell differentiation
Imaging mass cytometry and Multiplex ion beam imaging (MIBI):
Live-cell tracking with photoactivatable fluorophores:
Development of SSBP3 antibodies with photoactivatable versions of FITC or similar fluorophores
Would enable dynamic tracking of SSBP3 localization during cell differentiation or in response to stimuli
Could provide insights into the kinetics of SSBP3's role in transcriptional complex formation
Microfluidic antibody capture techniques:
The adaptation of SSBP3-FITC for these emerging technologies would require additional validation and possibly modification of the antibody or conjugation chemistry, but would significantly expand our understanding of SSBP3's functions at the single-cell level.
Investigating SSBP3 expression patterns across developmental trajectories and in disease contexts using the SSBP3 Antibody, FITC conjugated could reveal:
Developmental insights:
Embryonic development: Given SSBP3's role in trophoblast differentiation , studying its expression during early embryogenesis could reveal critical windows for lineage commitment
Pancreatic development: As SSBP3 interacts with Ldb1-Isl1 in mature β-cells , tracking its expression during pancreatic organogenesis may identify key developmental transitions
Stem cell differentiation dynamics: Temporal analysis of SSBP3 expression during directed differentiation protocols could help optimize regenerative medicine approaches
Disease-related applications:
Diabetes research: Given SSBP3's role in pancreatic β-cell gene regulation , examining its expression in models of diabetes might reveal dysregulation contributing to disease pathogenesis
Cancer biology: Investigating SSBP3 expression in various cancers, particularly those with aberrant differentiation programs, could identify novel roles in malignancy
Placental disorders: Since SSBP3 influences trophoblast differentiation , studying its expression in placental pathologies might uncover mechanisms of pregnancy complications
Methodological approaches:
Tissue microarrays: Analyzing SSBP3 expression across multiple tissues and disease states simultaneously
Longitudinal sampling: Tracking SSBP3 expression at defined timepoints during development or disease progression
Single-cell resolution studies: Identifying rare cell populations with distinct SSBP3 expression patterns that might be missed in bulk analyses
Correlation with epigenetic marks: Given SSBP3's effect on Elf5 promoter methylation , parallel analysis of DNA methylation and SSBP3 binding could reveal mechanisms of epigenetic regulation