CD11c (integrin αX, ITGAX) is a 145–150 kDa type I transmembrane glycoprotein that non-covalently associates with integrin β2 (CD18) to form the αXβ2 heterodimer . Key structural features include:
Domains: An extracellular I-domain critical for ligand binding, a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail .
Ligands: Binds fibrinogen, iC3b, CD54 (ICAM-1), and ICAM-4 .
Genetic Basis: Encoded by the ITGAX gene (Entrez Gene ID: 3687 in humans) .
CD11c is predominantly expressed on:
Myeloid Cells: Monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and neutrophils .
Lymphoid Cells: Subsets of natural killer (NK) cells, B cells, and T cells .
Pathological Contexts: Overexpressed in hairy cell leukemia and histiocytic tumors .
| Cell Type | Expression Level | Role | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dendritic Cells | High | Antigen presentation, T-cell activation | |
| Macrophages | Moderate-High | Phagocytosis, cytokine production | |
| NK Cells | Moderate | Cytotoxic activity regulation |
CD11c mediates critical immune functions:
Adhesion and Migration: Facilitates leukocyte trafficking via interactions with endothelial ligands (e.g., ICAM-1) .
Phagocytosis: Enhances uptake of opsonized pathogens via iC3b binding .
Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte (CTL) Activity: Supports target cell killing through adhesion-dependent mechanisms .
CD11c-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are widely used in:
Flow Cytometry: Identification of dendritic cells (e.g., clones N418, 3.9) .
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Marker for histiocytic lesions and hairy cell leukemia .
Functional Assays: Blocking integrin-ligand interactions to study adhesion mechanisms .
Dendritic Cell Identification: CD11c is a gold-standard marker for murine and human conventional DCs .
Therapeutic Targeting: Anti-CD11c antibodies conjugated to toxins show promise in tumor targeting .
Autoimmunity: Elevated CD11c+ macrophages correlate with disease severity in lupus models .
SPCC794.11c Antibody is a research reagent designed to target and bind to the SPCC794.11c protein, which appears to be of research interest predominantly in cell biology investigations. The antibody is commercially available from various suppliers under catalog designations such as CSB-PA302094XA01SXV . While the search results don't provide specific information about the target protein's function, researchers should note that like all antibodies, SPCC794.11c Antibody functions by recognizing specific epitopes on its target protein through antigen-antibody interactions. When considering using this antibody, researchers should first verify whether it targets the specific isoform or post-translationally modified version of the protein relevant to their research question. The antibody's epitope recognition properties should be thoroughly documented in the manufacturer's technical specifications, though independent validation is strongly recommended before proceeding with experimental applications. Understanding the specific region of the protein recognized by the antibody is crucial for experimental design and interpretation of results.
Researchers should apply multiple independent validation methods to confirm antibody specificity, following the "five pillars" of antibody characterization established by the International Working Group for Antibody Validation . First, genetic strategies involving knockout or knockdown techniques provide the gold standard for specificity verification - if the antibody signal disappears when the target protein is eliminated, this strongly supports specificity. Second, orthogonal strategies comparing results between antibody-dependent methods and antibody-independent techniques (such as mass spectrometry) should be employed to verify target detection. Third, using multiple independent antibodies targeting different epitopes of the same protein can provide confidence if they yield consistent results. Fourth, recombinant expression strategies can be used to artificially increase target protein expression and observe corresponding increases in antibody signal. Fifth, immunocapture mass spectrometry can definitively identify proteins captured by the antibody . Research indicates that approximately 20-30% of published figures may use antibodies that don't recognize their intended targets, highlighting the critical importance of thorough validation .
A comprehensive experimental design using SPCC794.11c Antibody requires multiple controls to ensure valid interpretations. The most critical negative control is the inclusion of a sample lacking the target protein, ideally through genetic knockout or knockdown, which should show absence of signal when probed with the antibody. If genetic modification is not feasible, a cell or tissue type known not to express the target protein can serve as an alternative negative control. Positive controls should include samples known to express the target protein at detectable levels or recombinant protein standards when possible. An isotype control antibody (same isotype but irrelevant specificity) should be included to identify potential non-specific binding due to the antibody class itself rather than the target-specific portion. For immunoprecipitation experiments, include a "beads only" control without antibody to identify non-specific binding to the matrix. When using secondary antibodies in immunofluorescence or Western blotting, always include a secondary-only control (omitting primary antibody) to detect background signal. These controls are essential as research has documented that approximately 31% of Western blot publications and 22% of immunofluorescence studies use antibodies that fail to specifically detect their targets .
Proper storage and handling of SPCC794.11c Antibody are critical for maintaining its binding capacity and specificity over time. Most research antibodies, including SPCC794.11c Antibody, should be stored according to manufacturer recommendations, typically at -20°C for long-term storage or at 4°C for short periods after reconstitution. Researchers should avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by aliquoting the antibody into single-use volumes upon receipt, as each freeze-thaw cycle can significantly reduce antibody activity through protein denaturation. When working with the antibody, maintain cold chain practices by keeping it on ice during experiments and avoiding exposure to direct sunlight or UV radiation, which can damage antibody structure. For diluted working solutions, consider adding preservatives like sodium azide (typically 0.02-0.05%) to prevent microbial contamination during storage, but note that sodium azide may interfere with certain enzymatic detection methods. Always centrifuge antibody vials briefly before opening to collect liquid that may have adhered to the cap or sides. Proper documentation of lot numbers, receipt dates, reconstitution dates, and any observed performance changes is essential for experimental reproducibility.
Based on antibody characterization principles, SPCC794.11c Antibody should be validated specifically for each intended application rather than assuming cross-application performance. Western blotting (WB), immunoprecipitation (IP), and immunofluorescence (IF) represent the most common applications for research antibodies, but performance in one application does not guarantee success in others . Studies have shown that antibody performance correlations between different applications are often poor - an antibody that performs well in Western blot may fail in immunofluorescence. When evaluating manufacturer claims about application suitability, researchers should look for application-specific validation data rather than general statements. For each application, optimization is necessary, including determining the optimal antibody concentration, incubation conditions, and detection methods. Performance in more complex applications like chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) or proximity ligation assays requires additional validation beyond basic applications. Researchers should consult literature where SPCC794.11c Antibody has been used in their application of interest and consider performing side-by-side comparisons with alternative antibodies against the same target when possible.
Non-specific binding represents one of the most challenging aspects of antibody-based research and requires systematic troubleshooting. When SPCC794.11c Antibody exhibits non-specific binding, first review validation data to confirm the antibody is capable of specific binding under optimal conditions, as approximately 31% of Western blot antibodies fail to specifically detect their targets . For Western blots showing multiple bands, analyze whether additional bands could represent isoforms, degradation products, or post-translationally modified versions of the target protein by comparing molecular weights to predicted values. Optimize blocking conditions by testing different blocking agents (BSA, milk, commercial blockers) at various concentrations and incubation times to reduce background. Titrate primary antibody concentration to identify the minimum concentration yielding specific signal, as excess antibody often increases non-specific binding. Increase stringency of wash steps by adjusting salt concentration, detergent type/concentration, or wash duration/frequency. For immunofluorescence showing diffuse staining, test different fixation methods as some epitopes are sensitive to particular fixatives, and consider permeabilization optimization if the epitope is intracellular. Create a detailed troubleshooting matrix documenting each parameter change and resulting outcome to systematically identify optimal conditions for specific detection.
Determining optimal antibody concentration requires a systematic titration approach tailored to each specific application. For Western blotting, prepare a dilution series (typically 1:500 to 1:10,000) of SPCC794.11c Antibody and apply to identical blots containing both positive control samples (expressing the target) and negative control samples (lacking the target). Evaluate the signal-to-noise ratio at each concentration by measuring specific band intensity relative to background, selecting the concentration that maximizes this ratio rather than simply the strongest signal. For immunofluorescence, perform a similar titration (typically 1:50 to 1:1,000) on samples known to express the target alongside negative controls, quantifying specific signal intensity versus background fluorescence at each concentration. For immunoprecipitation, optimization is more complex, requiring titration of both antibody and bead amounts - test a matrix of conditions with varying antibody amounts (1-10 μg) and bead volumes (10-50 μl), then evaluate IP efficiency by Western blotting the immunoprecipitated material for the target protein. Document optimal concentrations for each application in your laboratory protocols, noting that different antibody lots may require reoptimization. Remember that manufacturer-recommended dilutions provide only starting points, as optimal conditions vary with sample type, protein expression levels, and detection methods.
Cross-species reactivity verification requires a multi-faceted approach to ensure valid comparative studies. Begin by conducting sequence homology analysis of the target protein across species of interest, focusing particularly on the epitope region recognized by SPCC794.11c Antibody if this information is available from the manufacturer. Higher amino acid sequence conservation at the epitope region suggests higher probability of cross-reactivity. Prepare control samples from each species under investigation, ideally including both wild-type samples and appropriate knockout/knockdown controls for each species. Test the antibody using identical protocols across all species samples, maintaining consistent protein loading, incubation conditions, and detection methods to allow direct comparison. Verify specificity in each species independently using orthogonal methods such as mass spectrometry identification of immunoprecipitated proteins or correlation with mRNA expression patterns across tissues. Document species-specific optimal conditions, as different species may require different antibody concentrations or detection parameters even when the antibody successfully cross-reacts. For published studies using SPCC794.11c Antibody, evaluate whether species cross-reactivity claims are supported by appropriate controls rather than merely assumed based on sequence homology.
Resolving contradictory results requires systematic investigation of multiple experimental variables that could affect antibody performance. First, comprehensively document all experimental conditions where discrepancies occur, including buffer compositions, incubation temperatures/times, sample preparation methods, and detection systems. Independently verify antibody quality across different lots, as lot-to-lot variation significantly impacts reproducibility; research indicates that up to 20-30% of commercial antibodies may not reliably detect their intended targets . Test whether epitope accessibility varies between experimental conditions due to protein conformation changes, complex formation, or post-translational modifications that might mask the epitope under certain conditions. Consider whether technical artifacts could explain discrepancies, such as differences in protein extraction efficiency, transfer efficiency in Western blotting, or fixation-induced epitope masking in immunohistochemistry. Employ orthogonal, antibody-independent methods to verify the presence, abundance, and behavior of the target protein under each experimental condition. Design controlled experiments that systematically vary only one parameter at a time to identify the specific factor(s) causing result variation. Consult literature for similar discrepancies with other antibodies against the same target, as contradictions might reflect biological complexity rather than antibody performance issues.
Multiplexed immunoassays present unique challenges requiring careful consideration to prevent cross-reactivity and interference between antibodies. When designing multiplexed experiments using SPCC794.11c Antibody alongside other antibodies, first verify antibody compatibility by ensuring primary antibodies originate from different host species or are different isotypes if from the same species, allowing discrimination by species- or isotype-specific secondary antibodies. For fluorescent applications, select fluorophores with minimal spectral overlap and include single-color controls to establish proper compensation parameters. Validate each antibody individually before combining them to establish baseline performance metrics, then validate the combined protocol to detect any unexpected interference effects. Test for cross-reactivity between secondary antibodies and non-target primary antibodies by performing control experiments with each primary antibody alone followed by all secondary antibodies. Consider steric hindrance when target proteins are in close proximity or part of the same complex, which may prevent simultaneous binding of multiple antibodies. Implement sequential staining protocols when necessary, thoroughly washing between steps and using blocking steps to prevent cross-reactivity. For quantitative multiplexed assays, verify that the presence of additional antibodies does not affect the quantitative relationship between SPCC794.11c Antibody signal and target protein abundance.
Quantitative analysis of Western blot data requires rigorous methodology to ensure reliable results when using SPCC794.11c Antibody. Begin by establishing the linear dynamic range of detection for your specific combination of antibody, protein amount, and detection system through a standard curve of serially diluted samples, as signal saturation will invalidate quantitative comparisons. Always include a loading control appropriate for your experimental context, preferably a protein whose expression remains unchanged by your experimental conditions; this loading control should be detected on the same blot as SPCC794.11c's target to control for transfer efficiency variations. Perform densitometry using specialized software that can subtract background signal accurately, defining measurement areas consistently across all lanes and blots. Normalize target protein signals to corresponding loading control signals within each lane before comparing between lanes or conditions. Address technical variation by analyzing at least three biological replicates across independent experiments, and present both representative images and quantification with appropriate statistical analysis. Be aware that chemical detection methods (e.g., enhanced chemiluminescence) generally have narrower linear dynamic ranges than fluorescent detection methods, which may impact quantification reliability. Document and report all image acquisition settings, analysis parameters, and any image adjustments made during analysis to ensure reproducibility.
Statistical analysis of immunofluorescence data generated using SPCC794.11c Antibody requires approaches that address both biological and technical variability inherent in these experiments. When quantifying fluorescence intensity, first establish analysis parameters that objectively define positive signal versus background, ideally using negative control samples lacking the target protein; this is critical as research shows approximately 22% of immunofluorescence studies use antibodies that fail to specifically detect their targets . For cellular localization studies, analyze at least 50-100 cells per condition across multiple fields and biological replicates to account for cell-to-cell variability. When comparing conditions, use appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution: parametric tests (t-test, ANOVA) for normally distributed data or non-parametric alternatives (Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis) when normality cannot be assumed. For co-localization studies, calculate proper statistical measures such as Pearson's or Mander's correlation coefficients rather than relying solely on visual assessment of color overlay images. When quantifying differences in subcellular distribution patterns, consider using specialized analyses like distance from nuclear membrane or coefficient of variation measures within cellular compartments. Always report both the number of cells and number of independent experiments analyzed, and use visualization methods that show data distribution (box plots, violin plots) rather than just means and standard errors.
Ensuring reproducibility requires comprehensive documentation and standardization of all experimental variables that affect antibody performance. Document complete antibody identification information including supplier, catalog number, lot number, and RRID (Research Resource Identifier) in all laboratory records and publications, as this information is essential for replication attempts . Maintain detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) that specify exact buffer compositions, sample preparation methods, incubation conditions, detection systems, and image acquisition parameters for each application of SPCC794.11c Antibody. For critical experiments, test multiple lots of the antibody to assess lot-to-lot variation, which is a major source of irreproducibility in antibody-based research. Implement standard quality control procedures by maintaining reference samples known to express or lack the target protein, testing each new antibody lot against these standards before use in experiments. Archive original, unprocessed data files along with analysis parameters to allow reanalysis if needed. Share detailed protocols through platforms like protocols.io in addition to method sections in publications. Consider adopting emerging digital validation strategies such as electronic laboratory notebooks with version control and blockchain verification of experimental data. Participate in interlaboratory validation studies when possible, as these collaborative efforts can identify variables affecting reproducibility that may not be apparent within a single laboratory.
Validation of SPCC794.11c Antibody for chromatin immunoprecipitation requires specialized approaches beyond those used for standard applications. Begin validation with prerequisite experiments confirming the antibody's ability to recognize its native target in solution through standard immunoprecipitation, as ChIP requires the antibody to bind the protein in its native chromatin-associated state. Test the antibody's performance in IP under various crosslinking conditions that will be used in ChIP, as formaldehyde crosslinking can mask epitopes or alter protein conformation. Perform pilot ChIP experiments with positive control regions where the target protein is known to bind based on literature or predicted binding sites, alongside negative control regions where binding is not expected. Include appropriate controls in each ChIP experiment: input chromatin (pre-immunoprecipitation) to normalize for DNA abundance differences, IgG control to establish background binding levels, and ideally a technical replicate using a different antibody against the same protein. Verify specificity by performing ChIP in cells where the target protein is depleted through knockdown/knockout approaches, which should show significant reduction in signal at positive control regions. Validate ChIP-seq peaks by orthogonal methods such as reporter assays or genome editing of binding sites for functional confirmation. Document optimal chromatin shearing conditions, antibody amounts, incubation parameters, and wash stringency for reproducible results.
Optimization of SPCC794.11c Antibody for high-throughput applications requires balancing standardization with sensitivity. For tissue microarrays (TMAs), begin optimization using control tissues with known expression levels of the target protein before proceeding to experimental samples. Develop an automated staining protocol with precisely controlled incubation times, temperatures, and washing steps to ensure consistency across all samples in the array. Determine optimal antigen retrieval methods, as formalin fixation can mask epitopes to varying degrees depending on fixation duration and conditions; test multiple retrieval methods (heat-induced in citrate buffer, EDTA buffer, or enzymatic retrieval) to identify the approach that maximizes specific signal while minimizing background. For fluorescence-based detection in high-throughput screening, optimize signal amplification methods such as tyramide signal amplification if sensitivity is limiting, but be aware that amplification techniques can increase background and variability. Implement automated image acquisition with consistent exposure settings and analysis algorithms that objectively quantify staining intensity and patterns. Validate the optimized protocol by assessing technical reproducibility across multiple runs and comparing results with orthogonal methods measuring target protein expression. Consider depth of field issues in tissue sections by optimizing z-stack acquisition parameters or confocal imaging settings for three-dimensional samples. Document the complete workflow including tissue handling, staining protocol, image acquisition parameters, and analysis algorithms to ensure reproducibility.
Super-resolution microscopy applications impose unique demands on antibody quality and labeling strategies when using SPCC794.11c Antibody. First, antibody specificity becomes even more critical in super-resolution applications, as non-specific binding creates artifacts that may be indistinguishable from true signal at nanoscale resolution; validation using genetic knockouts or knockdowns is strongly recommended. For direct immunofluorescence approaches, verify that fluorophore conjugation to SPCC794.11c Antibody does not compromise binding affinity or specificity, as the conjugation process can sometimes affect the antigen-binding region. When using secondary antibody detection, select secondary antibodies specifically validated for super-resolution applications with appropriate fluorophore-to-antibody ratios, as standard secondaries may have suboptimal labeling density. Consider the physical size of the primary-secondary antibody complex (approximately 20-30 nm), which creates a "linkage error" between the fluorophore position and actual protein location; where possible, use smaller detection probes like nanobodies or aptamers to minimize this distance. Test fixation protocols carefully, as different methods can affect epitope accessibility and preservation of nanoscale structures differently. Optimize labeling density for your specific super-resolution technique - STORM/PALM techniques require appropriately spaced fluorophores for single-molecule localization, while STED works best with bright, photostable fluorophores. Include appropriate drift correction markers and validate the resolution achieved experimentally using known biological structures as internal controls.
Developing quantitative assays for protein modifications requires specialized validation of SPCC794.11c Antibody's ability to distinguish modified from unmodified forms. First, determine whether the antibody's epitope contains or overlaps with potential modification sites (phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, etc.) by analyzing the manufacturer's epitope mapping data; if the epitope contains modification sites, the antibody may be modification-sensitive. Verify modification specificity using controlled samples: purified modified and unmodified proteins, cell lysates treated with modifying enzymes versus inhibitors, or samples from genetic models with altered modification pathways. For phosphorylation studies, validate with phosphatase-treated samples and phosphomimetic mutants. Develop a quantitative standard curve using known amounts of purified modified protein to establish the assay's linear dynamic range, limit of detection, and reproducibility. Consider developing a normalized assay format that measures the ratio of modified to total protein to account for expression level differences between samples. If using Western blotting for quantification, implement a multiplexed approach with different fluorophores for detecting total and modified protein simultaneously on the same blot to improve quantitative accuracy. For ELISA-based quantification, validate antibody pairs to confirm one antibody can capture the protein while the other detects the modification without interference. Document the specificity for particular modification sites when a protein has multiple potential modification locations, as this dramatically affects biological interpretation of results.
Comprehensive reporting of antibody usage in publications is essential for research reproducibility and evaluation. When reporting experiments using SPCC794.11c Antibody, researchers should include complete identification information: manufacturer, catalog number, lot number, and RRID (Research Resource Identifier) . Describe all validation steps performed specifically for the study, including controls that verify antibody specificity in the particular experimental context rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims. Document detailed methodology including exact antibody dilutions, incubation conditions, buffer compositions, and detection methods for each application. Present evidence of antibody specificity directly in the manuscript or supplementary materials, such as images of full Western blots showing all detected bands, not just cropped regions of interest. Disclose any optimization procedures or troubleshooting required to achieve reported results, as these details help others reproduce the work. Report any observed limitations of the antibody, such as sensitivity issues, cross-reactivity, or application-specific inconsistencies. Include information about replicate experiments, quantification methods, and statistical analyses applied to antibody-generated data. Research shows that 88% of immunofluorescence studies lack proper validation data, highlighting the critical importance of thorough reporting . By following these practices, researchers contribute to addressing the "antibody reproducibility crisis" that has been estimated to affect 20-30% of research using antibodies.