TMEM141 is a transmembrane protein with a molecular weight of approximately 12 kDa. Currently, the specific biological function of this protein remains largely unknown . It is a mammalian ortholog of coiled-coil domain containing protein CCDC151 . The protein has been identified as having membrane localization , with some evidence suggesting mitochondrial association in certain cell types .
TMEM141 antibodies have been validated for multiple research applications:
Most TMEM141 antibodies show reactivity with human samples . Some products also demonstrate cross-reactivity with mouse and rat samples , though this varies between different antibody preparations. When selecting an antibody for non-human samples, it's important to verify the species reactivity specifically claimed by the manufacturer.
Based on validation data from multiple sources, the following samples serve as reliable positive controls:
For immunocytochemistry/immunofluorescence applications, PFA fixation with Triton X-100 permeabilization is recommended for optimal results . For immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded tissues, HIER (Heat-Induced Epitope Retrieval) at pH 6 is recommended for antigen retrieval . These conditions help maintain the structural integrity of the epitope while ensuring adequate antibody penetration.
Immunofluorescence studies using TMEM141 antibodies have demonstrated localization to mitochondria in CACO-2 human cells . Additionally, immunohistochemistry studies show strong cytoplasmic positivity in glandular cells of human prostate tissue . This subcellular localization information is critical when designing co-localization experiments or interpreting staining patterns in microscopy applications.
When studying mitochondrial proteins, additional controls and sample preparation techniques may be necessary, such as co-staining with established mitochondrial markers to confirm localization patterns.
Several different immunogens have been used to generate TMEM141 antibodies:
Recombinant protein corresponding to amino acids RVESEKCNNLWLFLETGQLPKDRSTDQRS
Recombinant Human Transmembrane protein 141 protein (1-108AA)
Recombinant Protein within Human TMEM141 aa 50 to C-terminus
Understanding the immunogen can help researchers select antibodies that target different epitopes, which can be useful for validation through epitope mapping or when targeting specific protein domains.
When different antibodies targeting the same protein produce varying staining patterns, consider:
Epitope differences: Antibodies targeting different regions of TMEM141 may show different staining patterns if those epitopes have differential accessibility in various cellular contexts .
Fixation sensitivity: Some epitopes may be more sensitive to certain fixation procedures. For example, the recommended PFA/Triton X-100 fixation may preserve certain epitopes better than other methods.
Antibody specificity: Validate results using multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes of TMEM141 and include appropriate positive controls (HeLa, MCF-7, or CACO-2 cells ) and negative controls.
Tissue/cell-specific expression: Consider that TMEM141 may undergo tissue-specific post-translational modifications or participate in different protein complexes across tissue types.
Given that TMEM141's function remains largely unknown , researchers investigating its potential interactions should consider:
Experimental validation approaches: Use multiple complementary techniques (e.g., co-immunoprecipitation, proximity ligation assays, and FRET) to confirm protein-protein interactions.
Control for membrane protein artifacts: As TMEM141 is a membrane protein , ensure that extraction conditions maintain native protein conformation and avoid artifacts common in membrane protein research.
Consider functional context: Recent research has begun to elucidate roles for previously uncharacterized transmembrane proteins in cellular processes. When investigating TMEM141, consider its mitochondrial localization as a starting point for functional hypothesis generation.
Model systems: Multiple cell lines have been validated for TMEM141 expression, including HeLa, MCF-7, and CACO-2 cells , providing suitable model systems for functional studies.
For Western blot applications:
Adjust antibody dilution within the recommended range (1:500-1:5000)
Optimize blocking conditions to reduce background
Ensure adequate protein loading (TMEM141 is a low molecular weight protein at 12 kDa )
Consider using a more sensitive detection system for low-abundance proteins
For immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence:
Optimize antibody concentration within the validated range (1:40-1:200 for IHC )
Include positive control tissues such as human prostate, cervical cancer, or tonsil tissues
Most TMEM141 antibodies are supplied in buffered solutions containing glycerol (typically 40-50%) and preservatives such as sodium azide . General storage recommendations include:
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by preparing single-use aliquots
Some products specifically note "DO NOT ALIQUOT" , so check manufacturer recommendations
Working dilutions can typically be stored at 4°C for short periods, but check specific product guidelines
While the function of TMEM141 remains largely unknown, research has begun to explore its potential significance. One study referenced in the search results identified biallelic loss-of-function variants in TMEM141 in association with neurodevelopmental disorders , suggesting potential neurological functions for this protein.
Additionally, TMEM141 has been identified as a target for N-terminal acetylation by the N-terminal acetyltransferase NatB , which may provide clues about its regulation and function.
Given the limited knowledge about TMEM141 function, researchers might consider:
Knockdown/knockout studies: Using siRNA, CRISPR-Cas9, or similar techniques to reduce TMEM141 expression and observe phenotypic effects
Interactome analysis: Performing immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry to identify protein interaction partners
Localization studies: Further characterizing the mitochondrial localization and exploring potential roles in mitochondrial function
Expression correlation analysis: Examining co-expression patterns with genes of known function to infer potential pathways involving TMEM141
Structural studies: Investigating the transmembrane topology and protein structure to gain insights into potential functions