The TKFC Antibody, Biotin conjugated is a polyclonal rabbit antibody specifically targeting the Triokinase And FMN Cyclase (TKFC) protein in humans. Biotin conjugation enhances its utility in immunoassays by enabling signal amplification through streptavidin-avidin interactions, a hallmark of biotinylated antibodies . This antibody is primarily validated for ELISA applications, with reactivity confirmed in human samples .
The antibody is optimized for ELISA but may also be adaptable to other biotin-dependent assays:
Signal Amplification: Biotin’s high-affinity binding to streptavidin/avidin enables detection via labeled conjugates (e.g., HRP, fluorophores) .
Target Validation: Confirmed specificity for TKFC, with no cross-reactivity reported in available data .
Biotinylated antibodies offer flexibility in assay design:
Signal Enhancement: Streptavidin-HRP or -fluorophore conjugates amplify detection sensitivity .
Multiplexing: Single biotinylated antibody can pair with diverse streptavidin-based probes (e.g., Alexa Fluor dyes, beads) .
Purification: Biotin-streptavidin systems enable affinity chromatography for TKFC protein isolation .
While direct performance data for TKFC Antibody, Biotin conjugated is limited, biotinylated antibodies generally demonstrate:
High Specificity: Enabled by affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies .
Low Background: Achieved via optimized blocking agents (e.g., BSA in storage buffer) .
Endogenous Biotin: High biotin levels in samples (e.g., fortified foods, supplements) may cause false positives. Blocking kits (e.g., Endogenous Biotin-Blocking Kit) mitigate this .
Stability: Biotin conjugates require careful handling to avoid degradation. Storage at -20°C and avoiding freeze-thaw cycles are critical .
The TKFC Polyclonal Antibody, Biotin Conjugated (e.g., A68910-050 from Epigentek) is a rabbit-derived polyclonal IgG antibody that has been affinity-purified and conjugated with biotin molecules. It specifically targets human TKFC protein antigens . The antibody is supplied at a typical concentration of 0.1 mg/ml and comes in a whole IgG format.
The biotin conjugation leverages the exceptionally high affinity between biotin and streptavidin/avidin (Kd ≈ 10^-15 M), making this a powerful tool for detection and signal amplification in various immunological assays . The biotin molecules are typically attached to the antibody structure using chemical coupling methods that preserve the antibody's antigen-binding capacity.
For optimal preservation of biotinylated TKFC antibody activity:
Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles which can lead to protein denaturation and activity loss
If working with the antibody over several days, aliquoting into single-use volumes and storing at 4°C is recommended
Most biotinylated antibodies remain stable for at least 12 months when stored properly
For long-term storage, addition of stabilizing proteins such as BSA (typically 10 mg/mL) may help maintain activity
The storage buffer generally consists of approximately 0.02 M potassium phosphate, 0.15 M sodium chloride, pH 7.2
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Immunocytochemistry (ICC)
Immunofluorescence (IF)
Western blotting
Flow cytometry
Detection System Differences:
Unlike directly labeled antibodies (e.g., HRP- or fluorophore-conjugated), biotinylated antibodies require a secondary detection reagent:
The biotinylated TKFC antibody binds to its target antigen
Streptavidin/avidin conjugated to a reporter molecule (fluorophore, enzyme, etc.) is then added
The streptavidin/avidin binds with high affinity to the biotin molecules on the antibody
This multi-step system offers significant signal amplification advantages as multiple streptavidin molecules (each with four biotin-binding sites) can bind to multiple biotin molecules on a single antibody, dramatically increasing sensitivity for detecting low-abundance targets .
Optimal IHC Protocol Design with Biotinylated TKFC Antibody:
Sample Preparation:
Primary Antibody Incubation:
Dilute biotinylated TKFC antibody (typical starting dilutions 1:100-1:500)
Incubate at 4°C overnight or at room temperature for 1-2 hours
Include appropriate negative controls (omitting primary antibody)
Detection System:
Signal Development:
For enzymatic detection: Add appropriate substrate (DAB for HRP, BCIP/NBT for AP)
For fluorescence: Counterstain nuclei and mount with anti-fade medium
Controls and Validation:
Include isotype controls and blocking peptide controls
Validate specificity through multiple detection methods
This approach leverages the high sensitivity of the biotin-streptavidin system while minimizing potential background issues associated with endogenous biotin .
In Western blotting, biotinylated TKFC antibody offers distinct advantages and considerations compared to directly labeled antibodies:
Performance Comparison Table:
| Parameter | Biotinylated TKFC Antibody | Directly Labeled Antibody (e.g., HRP-conjugated) |
|---|---|---|
| Sensitivity | Higher (with amplification) | Lower |
| Workflow complexity | Higher (multi-step) | Lower (fewer steps) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | Variable (depends on blocking) | Generally consistent |
| Detection of low-abundance proteins | Superior | Limited |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Time required | Longer | Shorter |
Methodological Considerations:
When using biotinylated TKFC antibody, researchers must be aware of endogenous biotinylated proteins (particularly ~75 kDa and ~145 kDa bands) that may be detected by streptavidin
Include appropriate blocking steps to reduce background from endogenous biotin
The signal amplification capability makes biotinylated antibodies particularly valuable when detecting low-abundance proteins
For quantitative Western blotting, standardization is more complex with the multi-step detection system
Recommended Protocol Modifications:
Include 5-10% milk or BSA with 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 in blocking buffers
Consider using non-milk blockers if detecting phosphoproteins
Use streptavidin-HRP or streptavidin-AP at 1:1000-1:5000 dilution
Consider shorter incubation times with ECL substrates to prevent signal saturation
High background is a common challenge when using biotinylated antibodies due to endogenous biotin and non-specific binding. Here are methodological approaches to address this issue:
1. Endogenous Biotin Blocking:
Use a commercial Endogenous Biotin-Blocking Kit prior to primary antibody incubation
Alternatively, block with free avidin followed by free biotin (avidin/biotin blocking system)
This step is particularly important for tissues with high endogenous biotin (liver, kidney, brain)
2. Optimize Antibody Concentration:
Perform titration experiments with decreasing concentrations of biotinylated TKFC antibody
Start with manufacturer recommendations (typically 1:100-1:500) and adjust as necessary
The optimal concentration will give strong specific signal with minimal background
3. Buffer Optimization:
Include 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 for better penetration in IF applications
Use TBS instead of PBS if phospho-epitopes are important
Add 0.05% Tween-20 to wash buffers to reduce non-specific binding
4. Additional Background Reduction Techniques:
Pre-adsorb the antibody with acetone powder from relevant tissue
Extend blocking times (2-3 hours at room temperature)
Use species-specific serum (5-10%) in blocking solution
Increase wash duration and number of wash steps
Consider testing alternative detection systems if background persists
5. Negative Controls:
Always include controls omitting primary antibody
Include isotype controls to identify non-specific binding
By systematically applying these approaches, researchers can significantly improve signal-to-noise ratio when using biotinylated TKFC antibody in imaging applications.
Several specific pitfalls can impact experimental outcomes when using biotinylated TKFC antibody with streptavidin detection systems:
1. False Positive Detection of Endogenous Biotinylated Proteins:
Challenge: Peroxidase-conjugated streptavidin can detect endogenous biotin-containing proteins (~75 kDa and ~145 kDa) in Western blots
Solution: Include streptavidin-only control lanes and consider using anti-biotin antibodies for detection instead of streptavidin
2. Steric Hindrance Affecting Antigen Binding:
Challenge: Excessive biotin conjugation can interfere with antibody-antigen interaction
Solution: Use antibodies with optimal biotin:antibody ratios (typically 3-8 biotins per antibody) or consider Biotin-SP conjugates with spacer arms for improved accessibility
3. Loss of Antibody Activity During Biotinylation:
Challenge: Chemical biotinylation may modify critical lysine residues in antigen-binding sites
Solution: Consider alternative biotinylation approaches targeting the Fc region or carbohydrate moieties rather than primary amines
4. Over-amplification Leading to Non-linear Response:
Challenge: Signal amplification systems may exceed the linear range for quantification
Solution: Carefully titrate detection reagents and perform standard curves with known protein quantities
5. "Hook Effect" in High-concentration Samples:
Challenge: Exceptionally high antigen concentrations can lead to decreased signal (paradoxical hook effect)
Solution: Test multiple sample dilutions and validate with alternative detection methods
6. Cross-reactivity Issues:
Challenge: Polyclonal antibodies may show cross-reactivity with similar epitopes
Solution: Validate specificity with knockout/knockdown controls or competitive binding assays
Proper experimental design with appropriate controls is essential for distinguishing true TKFC detection from technical artifacts.
Standard chemical biotinylation methods often result in heterogeneous products with variable performance. Advanced researchers can implement site-specific biotinylation strategies to create homogeneous conjugates with preserved antigen-binding capacity:
1. Fc-Specific Biotinylation Strategies:
Enzyme-directed approach: Use transglutaminase to catalyze biotin attachment to specific glutamine residues in the Fc region
Site-specific biotinylation via engineered photoactivatable Z-domain variants:
The photoactivatable Z-domain with biotin (Z<sub>Bpa</sub>-Biotin) binds to the Fc region
Upon UV exposure, it forms a covalent bond, resulting in site-specific biotinylation
This approach has demonstrated a 5-fold lower limit of detection (2 ng/mL vs 10 ng/mL) compared to NHS-biotinylated IgG in surface plasmon resonance applications
2. Glycan-Directed Biotinylation:
Oxidize carbohydrate residues in the Fc region with periodate to generate aldehydes
React with biotin-hydrazide derivatives to create site-specific conjugates
This method restricts biotin labeling from occurring near the antigen-binding site
Particularly useful for heavily glycosylated polyclonal antibodies like the TKFC antibody
3. Sulfhydryl-Directed Biotinylation:
Reduce disulfide bonds in the hinge region under mild conditions
React generated free sulfhydryls with maleimide-activated biotin reagents
This approach preserves antigen binding while providing controlled biotinylation
4. Enzymatic Biotinylation Systems:
Express recombinant antibodies with AviTag™ sequences
Use BirA biotin ligase to enzymatically attach a single biotin at a precise location
Yields homogeneous products with defined biotin:antibody ratio of exactly 1:1
These advanced biotinylation approaches significantly enhance reproducibility and sensitivity in complex applications such as single-molecule detection, super-resolution microscopy, and quantitative proteomics .
Precise characterization of biotinylation degree and its impact on antibody function is critical for optimizing experimental design and interpreting results:
1. Mass Spectrometry-Based Characterization:
MALDI-TOF MS to determine average biotin:antibody ratio by mass shift analysis
LC-MS/MS with enzymatic digestion to map specific biotinylation sites
Anti-biotin antibody enrichment of biotinylated peptides followed by MS for comprehensive site mapping
Hydrogen/deuterium exchange MS to assess structural changes induced by biotinylation
2. Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) Analysis:
Compare binding kinetics (kon, koff, KD) of native vs. biotinylated TKFC antibody
Analyze both direct binding to target and capture via streptavidin
Determine if biotinylation affects association or dissociation phase
Studies have demonstrated that site-specifically biotinylated antibodies retain binding kinetics similar to unmodified antibodies, while randomly biotinylated versions show altered kinetics
3. Fluorescence-Based Assays:
HABA/avidin displacement assay to quantify biotin incorporation
Fluorescence anisotropy to assess binding to target in solution
FRET-based approaches to evaluate conformational impacts of biotinylation
4. Functional Impact Assessment:
Comparative dose-response curves using multiple detection methods
Epitope binning before and after biotinylation to ensure epitope accessibility
Competitive binding assays with unlabeled antibody
5. Advanced Microscopy Approaches:
Single-molecule tracking to assess binding dynamics at the molecular level
Super-resolution microscopy to evaluate spatial distribution of binding events
Correlation with other detection methods to validate results
These analytical approaches provide critical insights for optimizing biotinylated antibody performance in sensitive applications like proximity labeling for protein-protein interactions, multiplexed detection systems, and quantitative proteomics .
Biotinylated antibodies can serve as powerful tools in proximity labeling studies, enabling researchers to map protein interactions and microenvironments:
1. Integration with Enzymatic Proximity Labeling Systems:
The biotinylated TKFC antibody can be combined with peroxidase-based proximity labeling:
Conjugate HRP to streptavidin and bind to biotinylated TKFC antibody
Add biotin-phenol or biotin-tyramide substrates and H₂O₂
The generated biotin-phenoxyl radicals label proteins within ~20 nm radius
Labeled proteins can be isolated with streptavidin and identified by mass spectrometry
This approach creates a "molecular neighborhood" map around the TKFC-targeted protein
2. Split-Enzyme Reconstitution Systems:
Leverage split-TurboID or split-BioID systems for contact-dependent proximity labeling:
Fuse one fragment to the biotinylated TKFC antibody (via streptavidin)
Fuse complementary fragment to a second protein of interest
The enzyme reconstitutes only when both targets are in close proximity
The reconstituted enzyme catalyzes biotinylation of proximal proteins
This enables mapping of transient protein-protein interactions
3. Implementation with Advanced Mass Spectrometry Analysis:
Anti-biotin antibody enrichment of biotinylated peptides increases identification of proximity-labeled sites:
Process samples with protease digestion after proximity labeling
Enrich biotinylated peptides using anti-biotin antibodies
Analyze by LC-MS/MS for site-specific labeling information
This approach has demonstrated over 1,600 biotinylation sites compared to only ~50 sites using traditional streptavidin enrichment methods
4. Spatially-Resolved Interactome Mapping:
Combine with multiplex imaging techniques:
Use biotinylated TKFC antibody to identify target location
Perform proximity labeling in situ
Visualize interacting partners with fluorescent streptavidin variants
Co-register with subcellular markers for spatial context
5. Quantitative Interaction Analysis:
Implement SILAC or TMT labeling with proximity labeling:
These advanced applications transform biotinylated antibodies from simple detection tools to sophisticated probes for mapping complex biological interactions with spatial and temporal resolution.
When selecting antibody conjugation strategies for TKFC detection, researchers should consider the comparative advantages and limitations of different approaches:
Comparative Analysis Table:
Strategic Selection Guidelines:
Choose biotinylated TKFC antibody when:
Maximum sensitivity is required for low-abundance targets
Flexible detection systems are needed (can use same biotinylated antibody with different streptavidin conjugates)
Signal amplification is critical for detection
Consider direct conjugation when:
Simpler workflows are preferred
Multiplexed detection is required
Endogenous biotin may interfere with detection
Evaluate click chemistry approaches when:
This comparative assessment enables informed selection of conjugation strategies based on specific experimental requirements and constraints.
The choice of biotin conjugation chemistry can significantly impact antibody performance. Advanced researchers should consider these methodological factors:
1. Amine-Reactive Biotinylation Reagents:
NHS-Biotin and Sulfo-NHS-Biotin:
Most common approach targeting lysine residues
Sulfo-NHS-LC-Biotin is preferred for antibody labeling due to improved water solubility
Concern: Random labeling may affect antigen-binding region
Optimal for: General applications where maximum biotin incorporation is desired
Buffer considerations: Avoid amine-containing buffers (Tris, glycine); use phosphate or HEPES
2. Sulfhydryl-Reactive Biotinylation:
Maleimide-PEG-Biotin:
Targets reduced disulfides or free cysteines
More site-specific than amine chemistry (typically targets hinge region)
Requires mild reduction of antibody disulfides
Optimal for: Preserving antigen binding capacity in sensitive applications
Protocol consideration: Monitor reduction conditions carefully to avoid fragmentation
3. Carbohydrate-Directed Biotinylation:
Biotin-Hydrazide after Periodate Oxidation:
Targets glycan structures in Fc region
Highly site-specific (away from antigen-binding sites)
Particularly valuable for polyclonal antibodies like TKFC antibody
Optimal for: Maximum retention of antigen binding capacity
Limitation: Requires glycosylated antibodies (most polyclonals are heavily glycosylated)
4. Photoactivatable Biotinylation:
Photoactivatable Z-domain-Biotin:
Enables site-specific conjugation to Fc region via UV activation
Provides homogeneous products with defined biotinylation sites
Shows superior performance in sensitive detection (5-fold lower LOD)
Optimal for: Quantitative applications requiring consistent performance
Consideration: Requires specialized equipment for UV activation
5. Kit-Based Rapid Conjugation Systems:
LYNX Rapid Plus Biotin Conjugation Kit:
The optimal choice depends on the specific application requirements, with site-specific methods generally preferred for quantitative and sensitive detection applications, while simpler NHS-based methods may suffice for routine applications .
Recent technological advances are expanding the research applications of biotinylated antibodies through several key innovations:
1. Enhanced Proximity Labeling Systems:
TurboID and miniTurbo biotin ligases offer improved labeling efficiency
Split-TurboID systems enable contact-dependent proximity labeling:
2. Advanced Mass Spectrometry Integration:
Anti-biotin antibody-based enrichment of biotinylated peptides:
3. Site-Specific Conjugation Technologies:
Engineered antibody formats with precisely positioned biotinylation sites:
Enzymatic approaches using sortase A or transglutaminase
Incorporation of non-canonical amino acids for click chemistry-based conjugation
Photoactivatable Z-domain variants for controlled Fc-specific biotinylation
These approaches maintain native antibody function while ensuring homogeneous products
4. Super-Resolution Microscopy Applications:
Combining biotinylated antibodies with:
DNA-PAINT technology for ultra-high resolution imaging
Exchange-PAINT for highly multiplexed detection
Expansion microscopy for physical sample enlargement
These methods achieve 10-20 nm resolution of protein localization
5. Advanced Signal Amplification Systems:
Tyramide SuperBoost kits specifically optimized for biotin-labeled antibodies:
These technological advances are transforming biotinylated antibodies from simple detection tools to sophisticated probes for dynamic and structural biology applications .
Endogenous biotin presents a significant challenge when using biotinylated antibodies in biological samples, particularly in tissues with high biotin content. Advanced researchers employ several methodological strategies to mitigate this interference:
1. Biotin Blocking Strategies:
Sequential Avidin-Biotin Blocking:
2. Alternative Detection Approaches:
Anti-Biotin Antibody Detection:
Instead of streptavidin, use anti-biotin antibodies for detection
Reduces background from endogenous biotinylated proteins
Particularly valuable in Western blotting where ~75 kDa and ~145 kDa endogenous biotinylated proteins often appear
Has shown superior enrichment of biotinylated peptides compared to streptavidin approaches
3. Sample Pre-treatment Methods:
Methanol Fixation:
Reduces accessibility of endogenous biotin in some sample types
Must be validated to ensure target epitope preservation
Particularly useful for cells with high biotin content
4. Advanced Experimental Design:
Differential Labeling Controls:
Include no-primary antibody controls to assess direct streptavidin binding
Use tissue from biotin-deficient models as negative controls when available
Implement competitive blocking with free biotin in control samples
5. Analytical Solutions:
Computational Background Subtraction:
Characterize the endogenous biotin pattern in control samples
Apply digital subtraction algorithms in imaging applications
Implement machine learning approaches to distinguish specific from non-specific signal
6. Alternative Conjugation Systems:
Non-Biotin Affinity Tags:
Consider alternative high-affinity systems like SNAP-tag, HaloTag, or digoxigenin
These systems avoid interference from endogenous biotin entirely
May require re-optimization of detection protocols
These strategies enable researchers to maintain the sensitivity advantages of biotin-streptavidin systems while minimizing background interference in complex biological samples .
The following optimized protocol balances efficient biotinylation with preservation of TKFC antibody function:
TKFC Antibody Biotinylation Protocol:
Materials Required:
Purified TKFC antibody (1-2 mg/ml in PBS or phosphate buffer)
Sulfo-NHS-LC-Biotin (spacer arm version recommended for optimal accessibility)
Reaction buffer: 0.1 M sodium phosphate, 0.15 M NaCl, pH 7.2-7.4
Dialysis cassettes or desalting columns (7K MWCO)
Storage buffer: PBS with 0.02% sodium azide and 1% BSA
Procedure:
Antibody Preparation:
Biotin Reagent Preparation:
Dissolve Sulfo-NHS-LC-Biotin in ultrapure water immediately before use
Prepare a 10 mM solution (use within 1 hour of preparation)
Calculate molar ratio: For most applications, a 20:1 biotin:antibody molar ratio works well
(Calculation: MW of IgG ~150,000 Da; MW of biotin reagent ~550 Da)
Conjugation Reaction:
Purification:
Characterization:
Storage:
Quality Control Measures:
Test immunoreactivity before and after biotinylation using indirect ELISA
Confirm biotin accessibility with streptavidin binding assay
Verify specificity with appropriate positive and negative controls
This protocol maximizes conjugation efficiency while preserving critical TKFC antibody function .
Several sophisticated signal amplification approaches can be employed to maximize detection sensitivity with biotinylated TKFC antibody:
1. Tyramide Signal Amplification (TSA) Systems:
Mechanism: HRP-streptavidin catalyzes deposition of biotinylated tyramide, creating additional biotin binding sites
Implementation:
Incubate sample with biotinylated TKFC antibody
Add HRP-streptavidin conjugate at 1:100-1:500 dilution
Apply Biotin XX Tyramide SuperBoost reagent with H₂O₂
Detect with fluorophore-conjugated streptavidin
Performance: Increases sensitivity by 10-100 fold compared to standard detection
Example Application: Detection of ATP Synthase with Biotin XX Tyramide SuperBoost Kit followed by Alexa Fluor 488 Streptavidin visualization
2. Polymerized Streptavidin Complexes:
Mechanism: Pre-assembled streptavidin polymers provide higher avidity binding
Implementation:
Create streptavidin-biotin polymers with controlled stoichiometry
Apply polymer complex after biotinylated antibody binding
Use fluorescently labeled or enzyme-labeled streptavidin for detection
Performance: Enhances signal while reducing assay time
3. Rolling Circle Amplification:
Mechanism: DNA polymerase extends circular DNA template generating multiple detection sites
Implementation:
Conjugate DNA primer to streptavidin
Add to biotinylated TKFC antibody-labeled sample
Add circular DNA template and DNA polymerase
Detect with fluorescent DNA probes
Performance: Exponential signal amplification (100-1000 fold)
4. Multi-layered Avidin-Biotin Complex (ABC) Method:
Mechanism: Alternating layers of biotinylated enzyme and streptavidin
Implementation:
First layer: Biotinylated TKFC antibody
Second layer: Streptavidin
Third layer: Biotinylated enzyme (typically HRP)
Fourth layer (optional): Streptavidin-enzyme complex
Performance: Each layer adds amplification, but may increase background
5. Proximity Ligation Assay Integration:
Mechanism: Antibody binding brings DNA oligonucleotides into proximity for ligation
Implementation:
Use biotinylated TKFC antibody with streptavidin-DNA conjugate
Add second antibody with complementary DNA strand
Ligate DNA sequences when in close proximity
Amplify by PCR and detect with fluorescent probes
Performance: Exceptional specificity with very high sensitivity
Optimization Parameters Table:
| Amplification Method | Sensitivity Increase | Background Risk | Workflow Complexity | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tyramide Signal Amplification | 10-100× | Moderate | Moderate | IHC, ICC, IF |
| Polymerized Streptavidin | 5-10× | Low | Low | Flow cytometry, ELISA |
| Rolling Circle Amplification | 100-1000× | Low-Moderate | High | In situ detection, Digital counting |
| Multi-layered ABC | 10-50× | High | Moderate | IHC, WB |
| Proximity Ligation | >1000× | Low | Very High | Protein interactions, Single molecule detection |
These advanced amplification strategies significantly extend the detection limits for low-abundance targets when using biotinylated TKFC antibody .