TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated is a specialized immunological reagent designed for the detection of Tsukushin protein in research applications. The antibody is generated in rabbits as a polyclonal antibody targeting the human TSKU protein (also known as Tsukushin) and is chemically linked to biotin molecules for enhanced detection capabilities . This conjugation leverages the exceptionally strong interaction between biotin and streptavidin/avidin proteins, which forms one of the strongest non-covalent bonds in nature, making it particularly valuable for detection systems in molecular and cellular biology research .
The antibody targets Tsukushin (TSKU), a member of the small leucine-rich proteoglycan (SLRP) family that plays important roles in cellular signaling pathways . The biotin conjugation significantly enhances the utility of this antibody by enabling amplification of detection signals, particularly when used in conjunction with streptavidin-based detection systems.
TSKU (tsukushi, small leucine rich proteoglycan) is encoded by the TSKU gene and belongs to the small leucine-rich proteoglycan (SLRP) family . This protein is identified by multiple alternative names in scientific literature:
| Alternative Names | Description |
|---|---|
| E2IG4 | E2-induced gene 4 protein |
| LRRC54 | Leucine-rich repeat-containing protein 54 |
| TSK | Tsukushi |
| UNQ850/PRO1788 | Alternative database designation |
The TSKU protein has a UniProt accession number of Q8WUA8 and contains multiple leucine-rich repeat domains that are characteristic of the SLRP family . The protein has a molecular mass of approximately 37.8 kilodaltons and is primarily secreted from cells, indicating its potential involvement in extracellular signaling processes . The TSKU gene is mapped to the human genome and has orthologs in several species including canine, porcine, monkey, mouse, and rat models, suggesting evolutionary conservation and biological significance .
The biotinylated TSKU antibody is produced through a specialized immunization process using recombinant human Tsukushin protein spanning amino acids 77-353 as the immunogen . This region was specifically selected to generate antibodies with high specificity and affinity for the target protein.
The antibody undergoes rigorous purification processes, typically using Protein G affinity chromatography, to ensure high purity (>95%) before biotin conjugation . The conjugation process attaches biotin molecules to the antibody while maintaining its binding affinity and specificity. Quality control measures include validation through specific applications such as ELISA to confirm target binding and biotin accessibility for downstream streptavidin interactions .
The conjugation of biotin to antibodies represents a sophisticated biochemical process that significantly enhances detection capabilities in various immunological assays. This section examines the technological aspects of biotin conjugation as it relates to TSKU antibodies.
Biotin conjugation typically employs N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) ester chemistry to form stable amide bonds between biotin molecules and primary amines on the antibody, primarily on lysine residues . The procedure must be carefully controlled to ensure optimal biotin-to-antibody ratios without compromising the antibody's binding capacity.
Commercial kits for biotin conjugation, such as the LYNX Rapid Plus Biotin Antibody Conjugation Kit, facilitate the process by providing pre-measured reagents and optimized protocols :
| Conjugation Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Recommended Antibody Concentration | 1-2.5 mg/ml |
| Optimal Antibody Volume | 4-10 μl (for small-scale conjugation) |
| Optimal pH Range | 6.5-8.5 |
| Buffer Compatibility | Amine-free buffers (HEPES, MES, MOPS, phosphate) |
| Incompatible Components | Primary amines, thiols, Thiomersal, Merthiolate, Glycine, Proclin |
Biotin conjugation offers several significant advantages in immunological applications:
Signal Amplification: The biotin-streptavidin system allows for substantial signal amplification due to the multiple biotin binding sites on each streptavidin molecule .
Versatility: Biotinylated antibodies can be used with various streptavidin-conjugated detection systems including fluorophores, enzymes, and nanoparticles .
Increased Sensitivity: The strong affinity between biotin and streptavidin (Kd ≈ 10^-15 M) enables detection of low-abundance proteins .
Targeting Capabilities: Biotin-conjugated antibodies can potentially be used for targeted delivery to tumor cells that over-express biotin-selective transporters .
The biotin-conjugated TSKU antibody demonstrates utility across multiple research applications, leveraging both the specificity of the antibody for TSKU protein and the versatility of the biotin tag.
While the specific TSKU antibody (orb686775) is primarily validated for ELISA applications , biotin-conjugated antibodies in general are employed in a wide range of immunological techniques:
| Application | Description | Benefit of Biotin Conjugation |
|---|---|---|
| ELISA | Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for protein quantification | Enhanced sensitivity through signal amplification with streptavidin-HRP |
| Western Blotting | Protein detection after gel electrophoresis | Flexible detection options and improved sensitivity |
| Immunohistochemistry (IHC) | Detection of proteins in tissue sections | Signal amplification for low-abundance proteins |
| Immunocytochemistry (ICC) | Protein detection in cultured cells | Compatible with various detection systems |
| Immunofluorescence (IF) | Visualization of proteins using fluorescence microscopy | Can be coupled with fluorescent streptavidin conjugates |
| Flow Cytometry | Analysis of protein expression on cell surfaces | Enhanced detection sensitivity |
Beyond traditional immunoassays, biotinylated antibodies can be utilized in innovative cell labeling techniques. For instance, the Universal Surface Biotinylation (USB) technique allows for cell labeling that doesn't depend on specific cell surface proteins, which can be followed by binding with streptavidin-conjugated molecules or hashtag DNA oligonucleotides for cell barcoding in single-cell analysis .
A biotin-based surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT) has been developed to detect neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants. This system uses biotinylated receptor binding domain (RBD) and HRP-conjugated streptavidin for detection, demonstrating how biotinylated proteins can be employed in sensitive diagnostic assays . This approach showed strong correlation with FDA-approved commercial kits (R² = 0.8521) and pseudo virus neutralization tests (R² = 0.9006) .
Research has shown that neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants in second vaccination sera decreased after a median of 141.5 days. The study also found that BNT162b2 vaccination maintained neutralizing antibodies for longer periods compared to AZD1222 vaccination . These findings demonstrate how biotinylated proteins and detection systems can provide valuable insights into immune responses.
When working with TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated, researchers should take these precautions:
Minimize exposure to light, particularly for downstream applications involving fluorescent detection.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment as with all research antibodies.
Maintain sterile conditions when preparing dilutions for cell-based assays.
Consider potential interference from endogenous biotin in samples, which may require blocking steps in certain applications .
Follow manufacturer's recommended dilution ranges for specific applications to optimize signal-to-noise ratios.
The development and application of TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated opens several avenues for future research in both basic science and translational medicine.
The availability of specific detection tools for TSKU protein enables more detailed studies of its biological functions. As a member of the small leucine-rich proteoglycan family, TSKU may play important roles in:
Extracellular matrix organization and remodeling
Cell signaling pathways
Developmental processes
Tissue homeostasis and repair
Pathological conditions including cancer progression
The biotin-conjugated antibody technology continues to evolve, with potential improvements in:
Novel conjugation chemistries with improved antibody-to-biotin ratios
Combination with emerging detection platforms such as super-resolution microscopy
Integration with microfluidic and lab-on-a-chip technologies for high-throughput analysis
Application in multiplexed detection systems for comprehensive protein profiling
TSKU (Tsukushin) antibody targets the Tsukushi proteoglycan, which plays a critical role in neural development, particularly in the regulation of lateral ventricular development and neural stem cell lineage maintenance. Research has demonstrated that Tsukushi proteoglycan dysfunction leads to hydrocephalus, characterized by excessive fluid accumulation in brain ventricles and lateral ventricular enlargement .
The significance of TSKU in neurodevelopmental research lies in its ability to regulate Wnt signaling pathways that facilitate proper expansion of the lateral ventricle. More importantly, recent studies have established that TSKU is crucial for RNA splicing and development-associated gene regulation in GFAP-expressing subventricular zone (SVZ) neural stem cells . Researchers investigating neural development, stem cell biology, or hydrocephalus conditions would find TSKU antibodies particularly valuable for studying these regulatory mechanisms.
The TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated is typically characterized by the following specifications:
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Host/Species | Rabbit |
| Clonality | Polyclonal |
| Tested applications | ELISA |
| Reactivity | Human |
| Isotype | IgG |
| Immunogen | Recombinant Human Tsukushin protein (77-353AA) |
| Form | Liquid |
| Conjugation | Biotin |
| Target | TSKU (Tsukushin) |
| UniProt ID | Q8WUA8 |
| Storage | -20°C or -80°C; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles |
| Buffer/Preservatives | 0.03% Proclin 300, 50% Glycerol |
| Alternative names | Tsukushi, E2-induced gene 4 protein |
These specifications are crucial for researchers to understand when designing experiments involving TSKU detection .
While the TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated is primarily tested for ELISA applications , researchers can adapt it for immunohistochemistry of neural tissues with the following methodology:
Tissue Preparation:
Immunostaining Protocol:
Block sections with 5% skim milk or 5% heat-inactivated normal goat serum with 0.1% Triton X-100 in PBS for 1 hour at room temperature
Incubate with TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated (at 1-5 μg/ml concentration) for 16 hours at 4°C
Wash with 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS
Detect the biotin-conjugated antibody using streptavidin coupled to a fluorophore of choice (e.g., Alexa Fluor streptavidin conjugates)
Co-stain with relevant neural markers such as GFAP, SOX2, or S100β as appropriate
This protocol can be optimized to visualize TSKU localization in relation to neural stem cells and progenitors within the subventricular zone.
When working with samples where TSKU expression is low, researchers can employ several strategies to enhance signal detection:
Signal Amplification:
Utilize the biotin-streptavidin system's amplification potential by implementing a streptavidin-biotin amplification cascade
Apply Tyramide Signal Amplification (TSA) protocols compatible with biotin-conjugated antibodies
Consider using streptavidin conjugated to bright fluorophores (e.g., Alexa Fluor 647) for optimal signal-to-noise ratio
Sample Enrichment:
For cell populations with heterogeneous TSKU expression, consider FACS sorting or magnetic separation to enrich for cells with higher expression levels
When working with tissue sections, utilize antigen retrieval methods to maximize epitope accessibility
Detection Optimization:
Extend primary antibody incubation time to 24-48 hours at 4°C
Decrease washing buffer stringency to preserve weak signals
Use high-sensitivity detection systems compatible with biotin-streptavidin chemistry
These strategies have been validated in similar experimental contexts with biotin-conjugated antibodies and can be adapted for TSKU detection .
Integrating TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated into multiparametric flow cytometry panels requires careful panel design and optimization:
Panel Design Considerations:
Select a streptavidin-fluorophore conjugate with minimal spectral overlap with other markers
Position TSKU in the panel based on its expected expression level (brighter fluorophores for lower expression)
Consider markers for comprehensive neural stem cell characterization:
| Marker | Purpose | Suggested Fluorophore |
|---|---|---|
| TSKU (Biotin) | Target protein | Streptavidin-PE or Streptavidin-APC |
| GFAP | Neural stem cell marker | FITC or Alexa Fluor 488 |
| SOX2 | Neural stem/progenitor cell | BV421 or Pacific Blue |
| S100β | Astrocyte lineage | PE-Cy7 |
| Ki-67 | Proliferation marker | PerCP-Cy5.5 |
Protocol Optimization:
Titrate TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated to determine optimal concentration
Implement sequential staining: incubate with TSKU Antibody first, followed by other markers to prevent steric hindrance
Include appropriate compensation controls for complex panels
Validate panel with positive and negative control populations
Data Analysis Strategy:
Implement dimensionality reduction techniques (tSNE, UMAP) for visualization
Use biaxial gating to identify TSKU+ populations in relation to other neural stem cell markers
Correlate TSKU expression with differentiation status of neural stem/progenitor cells
This approach allows for comprehensive characterization of TSKU expression patterns in heterogeneous neural cell populations with single-cell resolution.
Proximity Ligation Assay (PLA) using TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated enables the visualization of molecular interactions between TSKU and Wnt signaling components with high specificity:
Assay Design:
Primary antibodies: TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated and antibodies against Wnt signaling components (e.g., Frizzled receptors, β-catenin)
Secondary probes: Streptavidin-conjugated PLA probe for TSKU detection and species-specific PLA probe for Wnt component antibodies
Controls: Single primary antibody controls and isotype controls to validate specificity
Protocol Implementation:
Fix cells or tissue sections using 4% PFA
Block with 5% BSA and 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS
Incubate with TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated and antibody against Wnt signaling component
Add streptavidin-linked PLA probe and species-specific PLA probe
Perform ligation and amplification steps according to standard PLA protocols
Counterstain with DAPI and neural markers as needed
Image using confocal microscopy with appropriate filters
Expected Outcomes and Analysis:
Positive PLA signals appear as distinct puncta representing molecular proximity (<40 nm)
Quantify signal intensity and distribution in relation to cellular compartments
Correlate PLA signals with functional outcomes of Wnt signaling
This methodology provides visual evidence of TSKU's physical interactions with Wnt signaling components in neural tissue contexts, helping elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying TSKU's regulatory role in neural development .
Researchers working with TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated in brain tissue samples may encounter several challenges:
High Background Signal:
Poor Signal Penetration in Thick Sections:
Cross-Reactivity with Other Proteins:
Cause: Antibody binding to proteins with similar epitopes
Solution: Include additional blocking steps with 5% BSA; validate specificity using TSKU knockout tissues as negative controls; increase washing steps duration and frequency
Signal Variability Between Experiments:
Cause: Batch-to-batch antibody variation or tissue processing inconsistencies
Solution: Include consistent positive controls across experiments; standardize all protocol steps including fixation time and temperature; prepare master mixes for all reagents
These troubleshooting approaches have been validated in neural tissue immunohistochemistry protocols and can be applied specifically to optimize TSKU detection .
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for reliable research outcomes. For TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated, implement the following validation strategies:
Genetic Controls:
Peptide Competition Assay:
Pre-incubate the antibody with excess immunizing peptide (Recombinant Human Tsukushin protein, 77-353AA)
Compare staining between blocked and unblocked antibody samples
Specific signal should be significantly reduced in the peptide-blocked condition
Orthogonal Detection Methods:
Correlate protein detection with mRNA expression using in situ hybridization
Confirm protein size and specificity using Western blot analysis
Use multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes of TSKU
Cross-Platform Validation:
| Validation Method | Expected Result | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Immunohistochemistry | TSKU signal in SVZ regions | Absent in TSK−/− |
| Western blot | Single band at expected MW | Absent in TSK−/− |
| Flow cytometry | Population shift in TSKU+ cells | No shift in TSK−/− |
| Mass spectrometry | Peptide identification matching TSKU | N/A |
These comprehensive validation strategies ensure that experimental findings accurately reflect TSKU biology rather than artifacts of non-specific antibody binding .
TSKU expression shows dynamic patterns across neural stem cell differentiation stages, which can be quantified using the following approaches:
Temporal Expression Analysis:
Utilize TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated in time-course experiments of neural differentiation
Quantify expression at key developmental timepoints (neural stem cells, neural progenitors, immature neurons, mature neurons)
Correlate TSKU levels with expression of stage-specific markers:
| Differentiation Stage | Stage Markers | TSKU Expression Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Neural Stem Cells | GFAP+/SOX2+ | High expression |
| Neural Progenitors | SOX2+/GFAP- | Moderate expression |
| Immature Neurons | DCX+/MAP2+ | Declining expression |
| Mature Neurons | NeuN+/MAP2+ | Low/absent expression |
Spatial Distribution Analysis:
Implement multi-label immunofluorescence using TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated with neural markers
Quantify colocalization coefficients between TSKU and developmental markers
Map expression gradients across neurogenic niches (subventricular zone, hippocampal dentate gyrus)
Single-Cell Resolution Approaches:
Employ flow cytometry with TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated to isolate cell populations at different differentiation stages
Analyze TSKU expression in relation to differentiation markers at single-cell level
Correlate with single-cell transcriptomics to identify gene networks associated with TSKU expression
Research has demonstrated that TSKU is particularly important for maintaining neural stem cell properties through regulation of RNA splicing and developmental gene expression . Quantitative analysis of these relationships provides insights into the molecular mechanisms controlling neural stem cell fate decisions.
Investigating TSKU's role in RNA splicing requires specialized methodologies:
RNA-Seq Analysis for Splicing Events:
Compare alternative splicing patterns between wild-type and TSK knockout neural stem cells
Focus analysis on:
Exon skipping events
Alternative 5' or 3' splice sites
Intron retention
Mutually exclusive exons
Validate key splicing differences with RT-PCR and gel electrophoresis
Splicing Reporter Assays:
Design minigene constructs containing exons affected by TSKU loss
Transfect these reporters into neural stem cells with and without TSKU expression
Quantify splicing outcomes using fluorescent reporters or RT-PCR
RNA-Protein Interaction Studies:
Implement RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) to identify RNAs associated with TSKU
Use CLIP-seq (Cross-linking immunoprecipitation) to map TSKU binding sites on target RNAs
Correlate TSKU binding with altered splicing patterns
Functional Rescue Experiments:
Reintroduce wild-type TSKU into knockout neural stem cells
Assess rescue of splicing patterns and developmental gene expression
Test domain-specific TSKU mutants to identify regions critical for splicing regulation
Research has established that TSKU dysfunction affects RNA splicing in GFAP-expressing neural stem cells, making these methodological approaches essential for understanding the molecular mechanisms involved .
When comparing biotin-conjugated TSKU antibody to directly conjugated antibodies for multiplex imaging, several technical aspects should be considered:
Signal Amplification Capability:
Biotin-streptavidin systems provide signal amplification (multiple streptavidin molecules per biotin)
Direct conjugates offer more predictable stoichiometry but potentially lower sensitivity
| Parameter | Biotin-Conjugated TSKU | Directly Conjugated TSKU |
|---|---|---|
| Signal Intensity | Higher (with amplification) | Lower (stoichiometric) |
| Background | Potentially higher | Typically lower |
| Dynamic Range | Wider | Narrower |
| Quantitative Accuracy | Less precise | More precise |
Multiplex Compatibility:
Biotin-conjugated antibodies require a streptavidin detection step, limiting multiplexing options
Direct conjugates allow more flexibility in panel design without cross-reactivity concerns
For biotin-conjugated antibodies in multiplex settings, sequential detection protocols may be necessary
Experimental Evidence:
Studies using streptavidin-biotin systems in complex assays demonstrate comparable cytotoxicity to directly conjugated antibodies
The quality control data from studies with streptavidin-biotin conjugates show equivalent immunoreactivity (90% of unconjugated antibody) and high biotin binding capacity (>90%)
These considerations guide the selection between biotin-conjugated and directly conjugated TSKU antibodies based on specific experimental requirements.
The biotin conjugation of TSKU antibody enables several advanced protein-protein interaction techniques:
BioID Proximity Labeling:
Create fusion proteins of TSKU with BirA biotin ligase
Identify proteins in proximity to TSKU through biotinylation
Capture biotinylated proteins using streptavidin pulldown
Analyze interactome by mass spectrometry
This approach can identify transient interactions in the Wnt signaling pathway that may be missed by conventional co-immunoprecipitation
Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET):
Use TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated with streptavidin-fluorophore as FRET donor
Target potential interacting proteins with complementary fluorophores as FRET acceptors
Measure energy transfer to quantify molecular proximity
This technique provides spatial resolution of protein interactions in intact cells
Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR):
Immobilize TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated on streptavidin-coated sensor chips
Flow potential interacting proteins over the surface
Measure binding kinetics and affinity constants
This approach provides quantitative data on interaction strength between TSKU and Wnt components
Quantitative Immunoprecipitation:
Use TSKU Antibody, Biotin conjugated for efficient pulldown with streptavidin beads
Co-immunoprecipitate with Wnt pathway components
Quantify interaction stoichiometry through mass spectrometry
This method offers insights into complex formation and relative abundance of interacting partners
These techniques leverage the specific advantages of biotin-conjugated antibodies, particularly the high-affinity biotin-streptavidin interaction, to reveal molecular mechanisms underlying TSKU's regulatory role in Wnt signaling pathways that influence neural development .