TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated is a bioconjugated reagent designed for the detection and visualization of the TAC1 protein (tachykinin precursor 1) in biological samples. TAC1 encodes for neurokinins, including substance P, neurokinin A, and neuropeptide K, which are critical neurotransmitters and hormones involved in pain signaling, inflammation, and smooth muscle contraction . The conjugation of the antibody with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enables enzymatic amplification of signals in assays such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and ELISA.
Antibody Type: Polyclonal IgG (rabbit host) targeting TAC1 fusion proteins .
Reactivity: Cross-reactive with human, mouse, and rat samples .
HRP Conjugation: Enzymatic activity retained, with HRP:antibody ratios ranging from 2:1 to 4:1 .
TAC1 is a secreted protein (15 kDa) encoded by the TAC1 gene (NCBI Gene ID: 6863). Its cleavage products, such as substance P, mediate pain transmission, neuroinflammation, and vasodilation . TAC1 is expressed in neurons of the spinal cord, brain, and gut, as well as in inflammatory cells .
The antibody recognizes the full-length TAC1 protein (129 amino acids) and its isoforms. Its specificity is validated through immunoprecipitation and Western blotting in human and mouse tissues .
HRP conjugation involves covalent attachment to lysine residues on the antibody via chemical cross-linkers (e.g., maleimide or NHS esters). The process preserves antibody binding affinity and enzymatic activity, with conjugates exhibiting molecular weights between 238–326 kDa .
Immunogen: Recombinant TAC1 fusion proteins (e.g., Ag4790, Ag23477) .
Purification: Affinity chromatography using protein A/G columns .
Conjugation: LYNX Rapid Conjugation Kit® (Bio-Rad) enables directional labeling with HRP in <1 hour .
Recombinant HRP–antibody conjugates (e.g., in Pichia pastoris) offer homogeneous stoichiometry and high activity . These are used in ultrasensitive ELISA for TAC1 quantification (e.g., IC50 ~3 ng/ml) .
Stimuli: Capsaicin, angiotensin, and bacterial infections upregulate TAC1 expression in sensory neurons .
Enhancers: The ECR2 enhancer is critical for transcriptional activation in DRG neurons .
Neuroinflammation: TAC1/HRP conjugates detect SP/NK1R signaling in neuroinflammatory models .
Cancer: Overexpression of TAC1 correlates with cervical and esophageal cancer progression .
TAC1 (Protachykinin-1) is a precursor protein that is cleaved into multiple bioactive tachykinin peptides, including Substance P, Neurokinin A (NKA), Neuropeptide K (NPK), and Neuropeptide gamma. These peptides function as neurotransmitters that interact with nerve receptors and smooth muscle cells . TAC1-derived peptides are particularly significant in neuroscience research because they excite neurons, evoke behavioral responses, act as potent vasodilators and secretagogues, and contract smooth muscles either directly or indirectly . The gene encoding TAC1 (also sometimes referred to as TAC2 in older literature) is essential for understanding neuropeptide signaling pathways involved in pain perception, neuroinflammation, and various neurological conditions .
TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated is a polyclonal antibody raised in rabbits against recombinant human Protachykinin-1 protein (specifically amino acids 20-129) . The antibody has been directly conjugated with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme, creating a molecular complex that enables direct detection without requiring secondary antibodies . Key features include:
Immunogen: Recombinant Human Protachykinin-1 protein (20-129AA)
Buffer Composition: 0.03% Proclin 300, 50% Glycerol, 0.01M PBS, pH 7.4
HRP conjugation provides several methodological advantages for researchers:
Direct Detection: The HRP enzyme is directly attached to the primary antibody, eliminating the need for secondary antibody incubation steps, which reduces protocol time and potential sources of background noise .
Enhanced Sensitivity: HRP catalyzes reactions that produce colorimetric, chemiluminescent, or fluorescent signals, enhancing detection sensitivity when combined with appropriate substrates .
Stable Conjugation: The molecular complex formed between antibody and HRP is stable (approximately 400,000 daltons as estimated by gel chromatography for similar conjugates), providing reliable detection across multiple experimental conditions .
Versatility: HRP-conjugated antibodies can be used across multiple detection platforms including ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting with appropriate optimization .
The conjugation process typically results in antibody:HRP ratios of approximately 1:1 to 1:4, creating a reagent with molecular weights between approximately 190,000-325,000 daltons when considering the antibody (~150 kDa) and HRP (~44 kDa) components .
Based on the technical information available for TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated, researchers should consider the following optimization parameters for ELISA applications:
Sample Preparation and Assay Conditions:
Antibody Dilution Range: Start with manufacturer-recommended dilutions (typically 1:100 to 1:1000 for HRP-conjugated antibodies)
Incubation Temperature: 37°C for standard protocols; 12°C for extended incubations may improve sensitivity based on similar conjugated antibodies
Incubation Time: 1-2 hours for standard protocols; overnight incubations at lower temperatures may enhance signal
Buffer System: PBS with 0.05% Tween-20 is typically used for washing steps
Blocking Agent: 1-5% BSA or non-fat milk in PBS is recommended
Signal Development:
Substrate Options: TMB (3,3',5,5'-Tetramethylbenzidine) for colorimetric detection
Detection Time: Monitor signal development for 5-30 minutes depending on substrate
Signal Stopping: 2N H₂SO₄ or equivalent stopping solution when appropriate color develops
For validation, include appropriate positive and negative controls, and consider a titration series to determine optimal antibody concentration for your specific sample type.
When encountering weak or non-specific signals, consider implementing the following troubleshooting strategies:
For Weak Signals:
Increase Antibody Concentration: Try using a higher concentration of the TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated within the recommended range
Extend Incubation Time: Longer incubation periods, especially at lower temperatures (4-12°C), may enhance specific binding
Add Detergent: Including 0.1% Triton X-100 in the incubation buffer can improve tissue penetration and binding efficacy, as demonstrated with similar HRP-conjugated antibodies
Optimize Antigen Retrieval: For tissue-based applications, ensure proper antigen retrieval methods are employed
Check Storage Conditions: Ensure the antibody has been stored according to manufacturer recommendations (-20°C or -80°C, avoiding freeze-thaw cycles)
For Non-specific Signals:
Increase Blocking: Use more stringent blocking conditions (5% BSA or non-fat milk)
Adjust Washing: Incorporate additional or longer washing steps
Dilute Antibody: If background is high, increase the dilution factor of the antibody
Pre-absorb Antibody: Consider pre-absorbing the antibody with the immunizing peptide to validate specificity
Review Buffer Components: The presence of 50% glycerol in the antibody formulation can affect binding in some applications; dialysis may be considered if necessary
While the TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated is primarily validated for ELISA , evidence from similar HRP-conjugated antibodies suggests potential utility in other applications with appropriate optimization:
Immunohistochemistry (IHC):
Researchers have successfully used HRP-conjugated antibodies for direct immunocytochemistry of substance P (a product of TAC1) . Based on this precedent, TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated might be adaptable for IHC with the following considerations:
Fixation: Paraformaldehyde fixation (4%) is typically used
Tissue Processing: Paraffin-embedded or frozen sections (10-20 μm)
Permeabilization: Include 0.1% Triton X-100 to improve tissue penetration
Incubation Conditions: Extended incubations (24-48 hours) at 12°C may yield optimal results
Signal Development: DAB (3,3'-Diaminobenzidine) substrate system for visualization
Western Blotting:
Adaptation for Western blotting might be possible based on protocols used for other HRP-conjugated antibodies :
Sample Preparation: Standard protein extraction and denaturation
Transfer Conditions: PVDF membrane recommended for optimal protein binding
Blocking: 5% non-fat milk or BSA in TBST
Antibody Dilution: Start with 1:1000 to 1:5000 dilutions
Detection: Enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) substrates for optimal sensitivity
Validation experiments are essential before using TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated for applications beyond its validated use in ELISA.
TAC1-encoded peptides, particularly Substance P, play significant roles in neuroinflammation. Researchers investigating these processes can utilize TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated with the following experimental approaches:
Neuroinflammation Models:
Cell Culture Systems: Detect TAC1 expression in neuronal-glial co-cultures following inflammatory stimuli (LPS, TNF-α, IL-1β)
Tissue Analysis: Quantify TAC1 peptide levels in brain tissue from neuroinflammatory disease models
Cellular Localization: Determine TAC1 distribution in activated microglia, astrocytes, and neurons during inflammatory responses
Methodological Considerations:
Sample Preparation: For brain tissue, careful extraction protocols should be employed to preserve tachykinin peptides, which can be degraded by endogenous proteases
Detection Strategy: Sandwich ELISA using TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated as the detection antibody paired with a capture antibody against a different TAC1 epitope
Quantification: Standard curves using recombinant TAC1 peptides (Substance P, Neurokinin A) for accurate quantification
Controls: Include peptide-specific blocking controls to confirm specificity of detection in complex tissue samples
TAC1 and its peptide products have been implicated in cancer biology, particularly in aspects of tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Researchers investigating these connections can implement the following approaches:
Experimental Designs:
Expression Analysis: Compare TAC1 levels between tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues using ELISA with TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated
Cell Line Profiling: Screen cancer cell lines for differential TAC1 expression under various conditions (hypoxia, drug treatment)
Functional Studies: Correlate TAC1 expression with cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities
Research Applications Table:
| Research Approach | Methodology | Outcome Measures | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tumor Tissue Analysis | Quantitative ELISA using TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated | TAC1 protein concentration (ng/mg tissue) | Compare expression across cancer stages and grades |
| Cancer Cell Lines | in vitro ELISA of cell lysates and conditioned media | TAC1 expression changes following treatment | Monitor both cell-associated and secreted TAC1 peptides |
| Patient Samples | Multiplex assay including TAC1 detection | Correlation with clinical outcomes | Combine with other cancer biomarkers |
When designing these studies, researchers should consider that TAC1 gene products include multiple peptides (Substance P, Neurokinin A, NPK, Neuropeptide gamma) , and the TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated may detect the precursor protein and/or processed peptides depending on the epitope recognized.
Integrating computational methods with experimental data generated using TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated can significantly enhance research outcomes:
Bioinformatic Strategies:
Sequence Analysis: Examine the epitope recognized by the antibody (within amino acids 20-129 of human TAC1) for evolutionary conservation across species
Structural Modeling: Predict the three-dimensional structure of TAC1 peptides and identify surface-exposed regions accessible to antibody binding
Network Analysis: Map TAC1 interactions with receptors (NK1R, NK2R, NK3R) and downstream signaling pathways
Data Integration Approaches:
Multi-omics Integration: Correlate TAC1 protein levels (detected via TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated) with transcriptomic and metabolomic data
Pathway Enrichment: Identify biological processes and signaling cascades associated with differential TAC1 expression
Machine Learning: Develop predictive models incorporating TAC1 expression data for disease progression or treatment response
Validation Strategy for Computational Predictions:
Generate hypotheses based on computational models
Test predictions using TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated in relevant experimental systems
Refine models based on experimental feedback
Develop more targeted research questions based on integrated insights
Proper storage and handling are critical for maintaining the activity and specificity of TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated:
Storage Recommendations:
Temperature: Store at -20°C or -80°C for long-term preservation
Aliquoting: Upon receipt, prepare small working aliquots to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Thawing: Thaw aliquots gradually on ice before use
Short-term Storage: For ongoing experiments, store at 2-8°C for up to one week
Stability: HRP conjugates typically remain stable for 6-12 months when stored properly
Handling Guidelines:
Buffer Compatibility: The antibody is formulated in a buffer containing 50% glycerol, 0.01M PBS (pH 7.4), and 0.03% Proclin 300 as a preservative
Dilution Media: When diluting, use buffers compatible with the original formulation (PBS-based)
Temperature Sensitivity: Avoid exposure to temperatures above 25°C, which can denature both the antibody and the HRP enzyme
Light Sensitivity: Minimize exposure to direct light, as HRP conjugates can be photosensitive
Contamination Prevention: Use sterile technique when handling to prevent microbial contamination
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for generating reliable research data. For TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated, consider these validation approaches:
Positive Controls:
Recombinant Protein: Use purified recombinant human TAC1 protein as a positive control
Known Positive Tissues/Cells: Test tissues with documented TAC1 expression (e.g., submucosal plexus in human colon)
Overexpression Systems: Analyze cells transfected to overexpress TAC1
Negative Controls:
Peptide Blocking: Pre-incubate antibody with excess immunizing peptide to confirm signal specificity
Genetic Models: Test samples from TAC1 knockout models (if available)
Low-expressing Tissues: Examine tissues known to express minimal TAC1
Specificity Validation Table:
| Validation Method | Procedure | Expected Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peptide Competition | Pre-incubate antibody with excess TAC1 peptide | Signal elimination or significant reduction | Most direct method to confirm epitope specificity |
| Dose Response | Test serial dilutions of recombinant TAC1 | Linear signal relationship with concentration | Confirms quantitative detection capability |
| Cross-reactivity Testing | Test against related peptides (e.g., TAC3, TAC4) | Minimal signal compared to TAC1 | Ensures discrimination between tachykinin family members |
| Western Blot (if adapted) | Run TAC1 positive and negative samples | Single band at expected MW (~23 kDa for precursor) | Confirms size-appropriate detection |
Multiplexing allows simultaneous detection of multiple targets, enhancing experimental efficiency and enabling correlation analyses. When incorporating TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated into multiplex assays, consider:
Assay Design Principles:
Enzyme Selection: Since this antibody is HRP-conjugated, other targets would need different enzyme conjugates (e.g., alkaline phosphatase) or fluorescent labels
Substrate Compatibility: Choose HRP substrates with spectral properties distinct from other detection systems
Cross-reactivity Testing: Verify that other antibodies in the multiplex panel don't cross-react with TAC1 or the TAC1 Antibody
Multiplex Configurations:
Spatial Separation: Immobilize different capture antibodies in distinct locations (e.g., different wells or array spots)
Spectral Separation: Use HRP substrates with different emission spectra from other detection systems
Temporal Separation: Apply detection reagents sequentially with intermediate blocking steps
Experimental Considerations:
Signal Balance: Adjust antibody concentrations to achieve comparable signal intensities across targets
Internal Controls: Include standardization controls for each detection system
Data Analysis: Apply appropriate normalization methods when comparing signals from different detection systems
Validation: Confirm that multiplex results match those obtained from single-plex assays
Substance P and other TAC1-derived peptides are critical mediators in pain signaling pathways. TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated can be applied in pain research contexts:
Experimental Models:
Inflammatory Pain: Quantify TAC1 peptide expression in dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord following inflammatory stimuli
Neuropathic Pain: Compare TAC1 levels before and after nerve injury
Chronic Pain Conditions: Assess TAC1 expression changes in response to analgesic treatments
Methodological Approach:
Tissue Preparation: Process neural tissues (dorsal root ganglia, spinal cord, brain) with careful attention to preserving peptide integrity
Quantification: Develop standard curves using recombinant TAC1 peptides to accurately measure concentrations
Comparative Analysis: Correlate TAC1 expression with behavioral pain assessments and other molecular markers
TAC1-derived peptides, particularly Substance P, are important in regulating gastrointestinal motility, secretion, and inflammation. TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated can be utilized to investigate GI disorders:
Research Applications:
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Compare TAC1 expression between healthy and inflamed intestinal tissues
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Assess TAC1 levels in patient biopsies and correlate with symptom severity
Enteric Nervous System Function: Examine TAC1 distribution in submucosal and myenteric plexuses
Sample Types and Processing:
Tissue Biopsies: Process fresh or frozen GI tissue samples for TAC1 quantification
Intestinal Organoids: Analyze TAC1 expression in 3D culture models of intestinal epithelium
Enteric Neurons: Isolate and culture enteric neurons to study TAC1 regulation
TAC1-derived peptides influence airway function through neurogenic inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus secretion. TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated can support respiratory research:
Research Directions:
Asthma Models: Quantify TAC1 in bronchial tissues following allergen challenge
COPD Studies: Compare TAC1 expression between smokers and non-smokers
Neurogenic Inflammation: Track TAC1 changes during respiratory inflammatory processes
Experimental Design Table:
| Research Question | Sample Type | Detection Method | Outcome Measure |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAC1 in asthmatic airways | Bronchial biopsies | Quantitative ELISA | TAC1 concentration correlation with airway hyperresponsiveness |
| Effect of corticosteroids on TAC1 | Cultured airway epithelial cells | ELISA of cell lysates | Changes in TAC1 expression following treatment |
| Neurogenic inflammation pathway | Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid | TAC1 detection in biological fluids | Correlation with inflammatory cell infiltration |
By addressing these frequently asked questions, researchers can optimize their use of TAC1 Antibody, HRP conjugated across various experimental contexts, from basic characterization to advanced disease-specific applications.