The biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibody is primarily employed in assays requiring high-affinity detection:
Mechanism: Biotin-streptavidin systems amplify signal detection, enabling precise quantification of UBASH3A in lysates or supernatants.
Use Case: Monitoring UBASH3A expression levels in T-cell populations, particularly in autoimmune disease research (e.g., type 1 diabetes) .
Immunoprecipitation (IP): While not explicitly validated, biotin-conjugated antibodies often enable pull-down experiments when paired with streptavidin beads.
Immunofluorescence (IF): Limited data exists, but biotin conjugates can be used with streptavidin-fluorophore probes for intracellular staining.
UBASH3A negatively regulates T-cell activation by:
Inhibiting NF-κB Signaling: Suppresses IκB kinase activity, reducing IL-2 production .
Modulating TCR-CD3 Complex Dynamics: Limits cell-surface TCR-CD3 expression and accelerates its downregulation post-stimulation .
Interacting with Regulatory Proteins:
Autoimmunity: Genetic variants in UBASH3A are linked to type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease .
Therapeutic Potential: Targeting UBASH3A interactions (e.g., with PTPN22) may modulate T-cell function in autoimmune contexts .
Dilution Sensitivity: Excessive dilution may reduce signal-to-noise ratio; titration is mandatory .
Species Cross-Reactivity: Limited data on non-human reactivity; validation required for murine/rat models .
For comparative studies, consider:
UBASH3A (Ubiquitin Associated and SH3 Domain Containing A), also known as T-cell ubiquitin ligand 1 (TULA-1) or Suppressor of T-cell receptor signaling 2 (STS-2), is a protein primarily expressed in T cells that functions as a negative regulator of T-cell signaling. The protein contains multiple functional domains including an SH3 domain and a ubiquitin-binding domain that enable its regulatory activity. UBASH3A attenuates NF-κB signal transduction upon T-cell receptor (TCR) stimulation by specifically suppressing the activation of the IκB kinase complex. This regulation occurs through novel interactions with nondegradative polyubiquitin chains, TAK1, and NEMO, suggesting that UBASH3A modulates the NF-κB signaling pathway through an ubiquitin-dependent mechanism . Additionally, UBASH3A can facilitate growth factor withdrawal-induced apoptosis in T cells via its interaction with the apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) . The protein is also known to associate with c-Cbl and ubiquitylated proteins, further implicating its role in the regulation of signaling mediated by protein-tyrosine kinases .
UBASH3A expression is limited to specific tissues, with highest expression observed in lymphoid organs and cells. Based on comprehensive tissue expression profiling, UBASH3A shows predominant expression in:
This restricted expression pattern aligns with UBASH3A's specialized function in immune cell regulation, particularly T-cell signaling. The protein exhibits dual subcellular localization, being present in both the cytoplasm and nucleus , which suggests multiple functional roles depending on cellular compartmentalization. This expression profile makes UBASH3A particularly relevant for immunological research and studies focused on T-cell biology, autoimmune disorders, and lymphoid-derived pathologies.
Biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies differ from unconjugated versions primarily in their detection capabilities and experimental applications. The biotin conjugation involves chemical linkage of biotin molecules to the antibody structure, which provides several functional advantages:
Detection sensitivity: Biotin-conjugated antibodies leverage the strong avidin-biotin interaction (one of the strongest non-covalent biological interactions), enabling signal amplification for enhanced detection sensitivity compared to unconjugated antibodies.
Visualization flexibility: The biotin tag allows for multiple detection strategies using streptavidin or avidin conjugated to various reporter molecules (HRP, fluorophores, gold particles), providing versatility in experimental design.
Multi-step detection protocols: Biotin-conjugated antibodies are particularly valuable in multi-layered staining protocols where direct detection might be challenging.
Storage stability: The biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibody (as seen in product TA809272AM) is stored in PBS containing 1% BSA, 50% glycerol, and 0.02% sodium azide at -20°C, which differs from some unconjugated versions .
For research applications specifically targeting UBASH3A, biotin conjugation provides technical advantages in detection workflows without altering the specificity of the antibody (still targeting human UBASH3A as seen in the mouse monoclonal antibody clone OTI5B4) .
Biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies are versatile reagents suitable for multiple experimental applications, with specific recommendations based on validated protocols:
The biotin-conjugated format is particularly advantageous for signal amplification in detection systems using streptavidin-conjugated reporters. For optimal results, researchers should perform titration experiments to determine the ideal concentration for their specific experimental conditions, as sensitivity and background may vary depending on sample type and detection method .
For optimal Western blot results using biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibody, follow this validated protocol:
Sample preparation:
Prepare cell/tissue lysates in RIPA buffer containing protease inhibitors
For T-cell studies, stimulated and unstimulated controls are recommended
Use 20-40 μg of total protein per lane
Gel electrophoresis and transfer:
Separate proteins on 10% SDS-PAGE gel
Transfer to PVDF membrane (0.45 μm pore size)
Confirm transfer efficiency with reversible protein stain
Blocking and antibody incubation:
Detection:
Controls and validation:
Include positive control (lymphoid tissue lysate)
Include negative control (tissue with low UBASH3A expression)
Consider running UBASH3A knockout/overexpression samples as specificity controls
This protocol has been optimized based on experimental validation with human samples, but may require adjustment for mouse or rat samples depending on cross-reactivity .
Optimizing immunohistochemistry (IHC) protocols for UBASH3A detection requires careful attention to several key parameters:
Tissue preparation and antigen retrieval:
Use freshly fixed tissues (10% neutral buffered formalin, 24-48 hours)
For FFPE samples, optimal heat-induced epitope retrieval uses citrate buffer (pH 6.0) for 20 minutes
For lymphoid tissues, protease-based retrieval may improve signal-to-noise ratio
Antibody concentration optimization:
Detection system selection:
For biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies, use streptavidin-HRP systems
ABC (Avidin-Biotin Complex) method provides signal amplification for low-abundance targets
Consider tyramide signal amplification for detecting minimal UBASH3A expression
Validated positive controls:
Human tonsil (lymphoid follicles show strong positive staining)
Human bone marrow
Spleen sections (particularly T-cell zones)
Counter-staining and visualization:
Hematoxylin counterstain (Mayer's formulation) for 30-60 seconds
For co-localization studies, combine with CD3 or other T-cell markers
Researchers should note that UBASH3A shows both cytoplasmic and nuclear localization , so evaluation of staining patterns should consider both compartments. Validation using multiple antibody clones or orthogonal detection methods is recommended for confirming specificity, particularly in complex tissue environments.
UBASH3A functions as a critical negative regulator of T-cell activation through multiple molecular mechanisms:
NF-κB pathway suppression: UBASH3A specifically attenuates NF-κB signal transduction following T-cell receptor (TCR) stimulation by suppressing the activation of the IκB kinase complex. This regulatory activity involves novel interactions with nondegradative polyubiquitin chains, TAK1, and NEMO, suggesting an ubiquitin-dependent mechanism .
Dose-dependent IL-2 regulation: Experimental evidence from gene knockout and overexpression studies demonstrates that UBASH3A levels inversely correlate with IL-2 production. UBASH3A knockout T-cell lines show significantly increased IL-2 production (two- to eight-fold higher) upon stimulation with either anti-CD3 alone or anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28. Conversely, overexpression of UBASH3A results in attenuated IL-2 production, with a clear dose-dependent relationship observed .
pH-sensitive phosphatase activity: UBASH3A forms an STS1-Cbl-b complex with pH-sensitive phosphatase activity that suppresses T-cell function specifically in acidic environments . This mechanism may be particularly relevant in inflammatory microenvironments where pH changes occur.
Apoptosis regulation: UBASH3A can facilitate growth factor withdrawal-induced apoptosis in T cells via interaction with apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) . This suggests a role in T-cell homeostasis and population control.
These molecular activities position UBASH3A as a key checkpoint in T-cell activation, potentially contributing to the prevention of autoimmunity and hyperinflammatory responses through multiple signaling nodes.
UBASH3A has emerged as an important genetic risk factor for multiple autoimmune conditions through its regulation of T-cell signaling and activation. Research has revealed several key aspects of this relationship:
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) association: Genetic variants in UBASH3A are strongly associated with T1D risk. Specifically, risk alleles at rs11203203 and rs80054410 increase UBASH3A expression and decrease IL-2 expression in activated human primary CD4+ T cells . This establishes a direct mechanistic link between genetic variation, UBASH3A expression levels, and T-cell function relevant to autoimmunity.
Molecular mechanism: The increased risk of autoimmunity appears to be mediated through UBASH3A's inhibition of T-cell activation and IL-2 production. When UBASH3A expression is elevated due to risk alleles, T-cell activation is dampened, potentially disrupting normal immune regulation and tolerance mechanisms .
Multiple autoimmune diseases: Beyond T1D, UBASH3A variants have been implicated in several other autoimmune disorders, suggesting a common pathogenic mechanism involving T-cell dysregulation.
Functional studies evidence: Experimental models demonstrate that modulating UBASH3A expression directly impacts T-cell function, with knockout models showing enhanced T-cell activation and IL-2 production, while overexpression models show suppressed T-cell responses .
These findings position UBASH3A as both a biomarker for autoimmune disease risk and a potential therapeutic target. Researchers working with UBASH3A antibodies can leverage these connections to investigate disease mechanisms and potential interventions targeting this pathway in autoimmune conditions.
UBASH3A antibodies provide valuable tools for investigating ubiquitination processes due to the protein's intrinsic ubiquitin-binding properties and regulatory role in ubiquitin-dependent signaling pathways. Researchers can employ several methodological approaches:
Co-immunoprecipitation studies: UBASH3A antibodies can effectively isolate UBASH3A protein complexes containing ubiquitinated proteins. In experimental settings, 500 μg of whole-cell lysate from cells expressing UBASH3A can be incubated with anti-UBASH3A antibodies (or anti-tag antibodies for tagged versions), followed by protein G Dynabeads capture. This approach has successfully demonstrated UBASH3A's interaction with specific ubiquitin chains .
Ubiquitin chain binding assays: After immunoprecipitating UBASH3A, researchers can test its binding affinity to specific ubiquitin oligomers (K48-linked, K63-linked, etc.) to characterize the specificity of ubiquitin recognition. This method has revealed preferential binding patterns important for UBASH3A's regulatory function .
Analysis of UBASH3A monoubiquitination: Western blotting with UBASH3A antibodies can reveal the monoubiquitinated form of UBASH3A itself, appearing as a higher molecular weight band. This has been observed in experimental systems like the V5-tagged UBASH3A clones (1F6, 2F5, and 5E4), providing insight into UBASH3A's own regulation .
Ubiquitination dynamics during T-cell activation: Using biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies in combination with ubiquitin antibodies allows tracking of changes in ubiquitination patterns during T-cell receptor stimulation, revealing the temporal dynamics of these regulatory processes.
These approaches can be particularly valuable for studying how UBASH3A's interactions with ubiquitinated proteins contribute to the regulation of T-cell signaling pathways and potentially to autoimmune disease mechanisms.
Genetic variants of UBASH3A present important considerations for antibody selection and experimental design that can significantly impact research outcomes:
Epitope accessibility in variant proteins:
Disease-associated variants like rs11203203 and rs80054410 may alter protein conformation or post-translational modifications
Antibodies targeting regions affected by these variations might show differential binding affinity
For comprehensive studies, select antibodies targeting conserved epitopes (like the OTI5B4 clone targeting amino acids 288-549)
Expression level considerations:
Detection of variant-specific effects:
When studying specific variants, consider paired antibodies:
One targeting the variant region
Another targeting a conserved region as control
Cell type-specific expression patterns:
Genetic variants may alter tissue-specific expression patterns
Experimental designs should include appropriate positive controls
Consider flow cytometry to assess expression in specific immune cell subsets
Functional readouts:
Include IL-2 production assays as functional readouts
Measure NF-κB pathway activation as surrogate for UBASH3A function
Compare results between cells with different UBASH3A genotypes
These considerations are particularly important for researchers investigating the relationship between UBASH3A genetic variants and autoimmune disease susceptibility, as the antibody selection can significantly affect the ability to detect relevant differences in protein expression and function.
Implementing successful multiplex assays with UBASH3A antibodies requires careful planning and optimization of several technical parameters:
Antibody compatibility and cross-reactivity:
Validate that biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies don't cross-react with other targets in your panel
Test for potential steric hindrance when multiple antibodies target proximal epitopes
Consider using UBASH3A antibodies from different host species than other targets in your panel
Signal separation strategies:
For fluorescence-based multiplex assays, pair biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies with streptavidin conjugates spectrally distant from other fluorophores
In chromogenic multiplexing, use distinct chromogens with good spectral separation
Sequential detection may be necessary if targets are co-localized
Target abundance normalization:
UBASH3A is expressed at varying levels in different cell populations
Adjust antibody concentrations to balance signals for co-detection with high-abundance proteins
Include calibration controls for each target in the multiplex panel
Multiplex protocol optimization:
For co-detection with phospho-specific antibodies, optimize fixation conditions (critical for signaling studies)
Test blocking reagents for minimal background across all detection channels
Validate that signal amplification steps don't cause channel bleed-through
Technical validation approach:
Perform single-staining controls alongside multiplex assays
Include compensation controls for fluorescence-based systems
Verify co-localization patterns using confocal microscopy
These considerations are particularly important when designing experiments to study UBASH3A interactions with other signaling molecules in the T-cell activation pathway or when investigating its relationship with ubiquitinated proteins in complex signaling networks.
Analyzing UBASH3A phosphorylation status requires sophisticated methodological approaches that combine antibody-based detection with phosphorylation-specific techniques:
This multi-faceted approach enables researchers to correlate UBASH3A phosphorylation status with its functional roles in T-cell signaling regulation and potentially identify new therapeutic intervention points for autoimmune disorders.
When encountering weak or non-specific signals with UBASH3A antibodies, researchers should implement systematic troubleshooting strategies:
For weak signal issues:
Increase antibody concentration incrementally (starting from 1:2000 for Western blot )
Extend primary antibody incubation time (overnight at 4°C often improves signal)
Implement signal amplification systems (use high-sensitivity detection reagents)
Enhance sample preparation to preserve UBASH3A (add phosphatase and protease inhibitors)
Increase protein loading (UBASH3A is tissue-specific with variable expression levels )
For non-specific binding:
Optimize blocking conditions (test alternative blockers like 5% BSA instead of milk)
Increase washing stringency (add 0.1% SDS or 0.5M NaCl to wash buffers)
Pre-absorb the antibody with non-specific proteins
Lower antibody concentration while extending incubation time
Use more specific detection systems (try monoclonal instead of polyclonal antibodies)
Special considerations for biotin-conjugated antibodies:
Block endogenous biotin with avidin/biotin blocking kits
Minimize exposure to free biotin in buffers
Use streptavidin conjugates with lower background (specially purified versions)
Implement additional blocking steps for endogenous biotin-binding proteins
Tissue-specific considerations:
For non-lymphoid tissues, use tissue-specific optimized protocols
Longer antigen retrieval times may be necessary for FFPE samples
For tissues with low UBASH3A expression, consider more sensitive detection methods
Validation approaches:
These strategies should be implemented systematically, changing one variable at a time to identify the optimal conditions for your specific experimental system.
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for ensuring reliable research outcomes. For UBASH3A antibodies, researchers should implement a multi-faceted validation approach:
Genetic validation approaches:
Use CRISPR/Cas9-generated UBASH3A knockout cell lines as negative controls
Compare staining patterns in UBASH3A-overexpressing vs. wild-type cells
Utilize siRNA knockdown to demonstrate signal reduction correlating with protein depletion
Available UBASH3A knockout clones (like 2.1D6 and 2.1F7) can serve as valuable controls
Immunoblot validation markers:
Verify detection of the correct molecular weight band (73.9-74 kDa)
Confirm detection of both unmodified and monoubiquitinated forms
Run multiple antibodies targeting different epitopes to confirm consistent detection
Use reducing and non-reducing conditions to assess potential conformational epitopes
Tissue expression pattern validation:
Peptide competition assays:
Pre-incubate antibody with immunizing peptide before application
Confirm signal reduction with increasing peptide concentration
Include irrelevant peptide controls to demonstrate specificity
Functional correlation validation:
Correlate antibody staining intensity with functional readouts (IL-2 production)
Verify inverse relationship between UBASH3A detection and T-cell activation markers
Confirm expected changes in detection following T-cell receptor stimulation
Implementation of these validation strategies ensures that experimental findings accurately reflect UBASH3A biology rather than antibody artifacts, particularly important for studies investigating UBASH3A's role in T-cell signaling and autoimmune disease mechanisms.
Maintaining optimal performance of biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies requires rigorous quality control measures throughout storage, handling, and experimental use:
Storage and stability monitoring:
Store antibodies at -20°C as recommended, avoiding repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Aliquot antibodies upon receipt to minimize freeze-thaw degradation
Monitor expiration dates (typical stability is one year when properly stored)
Validate activity of older antibody lots against fresh lots before critical experiments
Pre-experimental validation:
Conjugation stability assessment:
Monitor for potential signs of biotin hydrolysis (decreasing signal over time)
Check for antibody aggregation prior to use (centrifuge briefly before pipetting)
For long-term storage, add stabilizing proteins (BSA) if not already present
Record lot-to-lot variability in conjugation efficiency
Application-specific quality controls:
For Western blotting: include biotin blocking controls to assess endogenous biotin
For IHC/ICC: implement avidin/biotin blocking steps to minimize background
For flow cytometry: use fluorescence-minus-one (FMO) controls for accurate gating
For all applications: include isotype controls with matching biotin conjugation
Documentation and standardization:
Maintain detailed records of antibody performance across experiments
Standardize protocols to minimize technical variability
Create internal reference standards for consistent quantification
Document biotin-conjugated antibody performance metrics (signal-to-noise ratio)
These quality control measures are essential for generating reproducible and reliable data, particularly important for studies involving UBASH3A's complex roles in T-cell signaling and autoimmune disease mechanisms where subtle changes in protein expression or modification status can have significant biological implications.
UBASH3A antibodies represent valuable tools for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting autoimmune diseases through several research pathways:
Target validation studies:
Biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies enable precise quantification of UBASH3A expression in patient samples
Correlation of UBASH3A levels with disease severity provides validation for therapeutic targeting
Monitoring changes in UBASH3A expression following current immunomodulatory treatments helps identify mechanistic connections
Screening platforms for drug discovery:
High-throughput screening assays using UBASH3A antibodies can identify compounds that modulate its expression or function
Proximity-based assays (like BRET or FRET) incorporating labeled UBASH3A antibodies can detect interaction disruptors
Cell-based reporter systems monitored with UBASH3A antibodies enable functional screening
Biomarker development:
UBASH3A antibodies can be used to develop diagnostic or prognostic assays, particularly given the association of specific UBASH3A variants with disease risk
Monitoring UBASH3A expression or phosphorylation status might predict treatment response
Changes in UBASH3A cellular distribution (detected via fractionation and immunoblotting) could serve as disease activity indicators
Therapeutic antibody development:
Research-grade antibodies provide valuable epitope information for developing therapeutic antibodies
Function-modulating antibodies targeting UBASH3A could potentially enhance T-cell responses in immunodeficiency or suppress them in autoimmunity
Intrabody approaches targeting UBASH3A could modulate T-cell function from within
Combination therapy rationale:
These research directions represent promising avenues for translating basic UBASH3A biology into clinical applications, potentially leading to more targeted therapies for autoimmune conditions like Type 1 Diabetes where UBASH3A genetic variants confer significant disease risk .
Emerging technologies are poised to revolutionize UBASH3A research by enabling more sensitive detection, higher resolution analysis, and more comprehensive functional characterization:
Single-cell proteomics approaches:
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) with UBASH3A antibodies allows simultaneous measurement of UBASH3A alongside dozens of other proteins at single-cell resolution
Imaging mass cytometry combines spatial information with high-parameter protein detection
Digital spatial profiling enables quantitative measurement of UBASH3A in tissue microenvironments
Super-resolution microscopy applications:
STORM/PALM microscopy with biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies enables nanoscale visualization of protein distribution
Lattice light-sheet microscopy allows dynamic tracking of UBASH3A translocation during T-cell activation
Expansion microscopy physically enlarges samples for enhanced resolution of protein complexes
Proximity labeling technologies:
TurboID or APEX2 fusions to UBASH3A enable proximity biotinylation of interaction partners
Subsequently, biotin-conjugated UBASH3A antibodies can be used to validate these interactions
This approach maps the dynamic UBASH3A interactome during T-cell activation states
CRISPR-based functional genomics:
CRISPR activation/inhibition screens targeting UBASH3A regulatory elements
Base editing to introduce specific disease-associated variants
CRISPR knock-in of tagged UBASH3A for live-cell imaging without antibody limitations
Computational approaches:
Machine learning algorithms to analyze complex UBASH3A staining patterns
Integrative multi-omics approaches combining UBASH3A antibody-based proteomics with transcriptomics
Molecular modeling of UBASH3A interactions guided by antibody epitope mapping
These technologies will provide unprecedented insights into UBASH3A biology, particularly its dynamic regulation during T-cell activation and its dysregulation in autoimmune conditions. Researchers can leverage these advanced approaches to move beyond static measurements toward understanding the dynamic, contextual functions of UBASH3A in health and disease.
Integrating UBASH3A antibody-based studies with genomic and transcriptomic data creates powerful multi-omics approaches that provide comprehensive insights into UBASH3A biology:
Genotype-phenotype correlation studies:
Quantify UBASH3A protein levels using calibrated antibody-based assays in samples with known genotypes at risk loci (rs11203203, rs80054410)
Correlate protein expression with risk alleles to validate functional consequences
Create integrated datasets combining:
UBASH3A protein levels (antibody-based detection)
Genotype at risk loci (genomic data)
Clinical phenotypes (patient metadata)
Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) validation:
Use UBASH3A antibodies to confirm protein-level effects of eQTL variants
Compare mRNA expression (RNA-seq) with protein abundance (quantitative immunoblotting)
Identify post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms by examining discordance between mRNA and protein levels
Alternative splicing assessment:
Design epitope-specific antibodies targeting different UBASH3A isoforms
Correlate isoform-specific protein detection with RNA-seq splice variant quantification
Map functional consequences of different isoforms using antibody-based functional assays
Multi-omics experimental design:
Technical integration approaches:
Spatial transcriptomics combined with UBASH3A immunofluorescence on the same tissue sections
Single-cell proteogenomics pairing UBASH3A antibody detection with single-cell RNA-seq
Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP-seq) using UBASH3A antibodies to identify potential regulatory interactions
These integrative approaches enable researchers to bridge the gap between genetic association and molecular mechanism, particularly important for understanding how UBASH3A variants contribute to autoimmune disease risk through altered protein expression and function in specific cellular contexts.