KEGG: spo:SPBC13E7.08c
STRING: 4896.SPBC13E7.08c.1
SPBC13E7.08c is a component of the Leo1-Paf1 subcomplex within the RNA polymerase II-associated factor 1 complex (Paf1C). Research indicates that this protein plays a critical role in preventing the spread of heterochromatin into euchromatin regions. The protein is classified within the LEO1 family and is primarily localized in the nucleus. It functions as part of the chromatin regulation machinery, contributing to transcriptional regulation and genomic stability. The protein is documented in databases including KEGG (spo:SPBC13E7.08c) and STRING (4896.SPBC13E7.08c.1), with UniProt accession number Q9P6R2.
SPBC13E7.08c Antibody is suitable for multiple research applications investigating chromatin regulation and transcriptional processes. The most common methodological applications include:
| Application | Recommended Dilution | Detection Method | Expected Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Blotting | 1:500-1:2000 | HRP-conjugated secondary antibody | Band at ~45-50 kDa |
| Immunoprecipitation | 1:50-1:200 | Protein A/G beads | Enrichment of target protein |
| Immunofluorescence | 1:100-1:500 | Fluorophore-conjugated secondary antibody | Nuclear localization pattern |
| ChIP | 5-10 μg per reaction | qPCR or sequencing | Enrichment at chromatin boundary regions |
These applications are particularly valuable for studies examining the mechanisms of heterochromatin-euchromatin boundary formation and maintenance.
For maintaining antibody integrity and experimental reliability, adherence to proper storage and handling protocols is essential:
Store the antibody at -20°C for long-term preservation
The liquid formulation contains 50% glycerol and 0.03% Proclin 300 as a preservative in 0.01M PBS (pH 7.4)
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by preparing working aliquots
When preparing dilutions, use sterile buffers containing appropriate protein carriers (e.g., 1% BSA)
Prior to experimental use, centrifuge the vial briefly to collect all liquid at the bottom
Working dilutions should be prepared fresh before each experiment and discarded after use
Adhering to these practices minimizes antibody degradation and ensures consistent experimental results across multiple investigations.
Rigorous validation of antibody specificity is essential for ensuring experimental reliability. For SPBC13E7.08c Antibody, a comprehensive validation approach should include:
Peptide competition assay: Pre-incubate the antibody with excess recombinant SPBC13E7.08c protein or synthetic peptide corresponding to the immunogen. The specific signal should be significantly reduced or eliminated.
Genetic validation: Compare antibody reactivity in wild-type cells versus SPBC13E7.08c knockout/knockdown models. The specific signal should be absent or significantly reduced in knockout/knockdown samples.
Cross-species reactivity testing: The antibody may recognize homologous proteins in related species. Test reactivity across evolutionary related organisms using sequence alignment tools to predict potential cross-reactivity:
| Species | Protein Homolog | Sequence Identity | Expected Cross-Reactivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| S. pombe | SPBC13E7.08c | 100% | Strong positive |
| S. cerevisiae | Leo1 | ~40-45% | Moderate to weak |
| Human | LEO1 | ~30-35% | Weak to none |
| Mouse | Leo1 | ~30-35% | Weak to none |
Mass spectrometry verification: Perform immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry analysis to confirm that the antibody specifically enriches SPBC13E7.08c.
Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP-seq) with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody can provide valuable insights into genomic binding sites and chromatin boundary regulation. The following methodological considerations are important:
Crosslinking optimization: Since SPBC13E7.08c is part of a protein complex, dual crosslinking with both formaldehyde (1%) and a protein-protein crosslinker like DSG (disuccinimidyl glutarate) may improve complex preservation.
Chromatin fragmentation: Aim for fragments of 200-300 bp for optimal resolution. Sonication parameters should be carefully optimized for the specific cell type.
Immunoprecipitation conditions:
Use 5-10 μg of antibody per ChIP reaction
Include appropriate controls (IgG control, input chromatin)
Extend incubation time to 16 hours at 4°C for maximum capture efficiency
Include stringent washing steps to reduce background
Data analysis considerations:
Compare binding profiles with known heterochromatin marks (H3K9me3)
Analyze co-occupancy with other Paf1C components
Examine enrichment at gene promoters and transcriptional boundaries
A typical ChIP-seq workflow using SPBC13E7.08c Antibody yields binding profiles concentrated at heterochromatin-euchromatin boundaries and active transcription sites.
The Leo1-Paf1 subcomplex interacts with other components of the RNA polymerase II-associated factor 1 complex in a coordinated manner to regulate transcription and chromatin boundaries. Current research indicates several key structural relationships:
| Paf1C Component | Interaction with SPBC13E7.08c | Functional Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Paf1 | Direct binding via N-terminal domain | Stabilizes complex assembly |
| Ctr9 | Indirect association | Scaffolding for complex integrity |
| Cdc73 | Weak interaction | Connection to RNA polymerase II |
| Rtf1 | Minimal direct interaction | H2B ubiquitination activity |
Research suggests that the Leo1-Paf1 subcomplex functions as a critical unit within the larger Paf1C, with specialized roles in preventing heterochromatin encroachment into euchromatic regions. This mechanism likely involves recruitment of histone modifiers that establish and maintain the distinct chromatin states.
The mechanism by which the Leo1-Paf1 subcomplex prevents heterochromatin spread involves several coordinated molecular activities:
Chromatin modification: The subcomplex likely recruits histone methyltransferases that deposit H3K4me3 and H3K36me3 marks, which antagonize heterochromatic H3K9me3.
Transcriptional activation: By associating with RNA polymerase II, the complex promotes active transcription, which is incompatible with heterochromatin formation.
Boundary element stabilization: The complex may interact with specialized DNA elements that serve as insulators between chromatin domains.
Protein recruitment cascade:
| Stage | Process | Molecular Components | Detection Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Initial binding | Leo1-Paf1 at boundary elements | ChIP-seq with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody |
| 2 | Histone modifier recruitment | H3K4 methyltransferases | Co-IP with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody |
| 3 | Active mark deposition | H3K4me3, H3K36me3 | Sequential ChIP |
| 4 | Repressive mark exclusion | Reduced H3K9me3 spreading | ChIP-qPCR across boundary |
Disruption of the Leo1-Paf1 subcomplex through genetic deletion or mutation typically results in heterochromatin spreading beyond normal boundaries, affecting gene expression patterns and cellular phenotypes.
Researchers often encounter several technical challenges when working with nuclear protein antibodies like SPBC13E7.08c Antibody. The following table outlines common issues and recommended solutions:
| Challenge | Possible Causes | Optimization Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Weak signal in Western blot | Insufficient protein extraction | Use specialized nuclear extraction buffers containing DNase |
| Inefficient transfer of nuclear proteins | Extend transfer time or use semi-dry transfer for large proteins | |
| Suboptimal antibody concentration | Titrate antibody; try 1:500, 1:1000, and 1:2000 dilutions | |
| High background | Insufficient blocking | Increase blocking time or concentration (5% BSA or milk) |
| Non-specific binding | Add 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 to antibody dilution | |
| Cross-reactivity | Pre-adsorb antibody with cell lysate from non-target species | |
| No signal in immunofluorescence | Inadequate fixation | Try different fixatives (PFA vs. methanol) |
| Epitope masking | Include an antigen retrieval step | |
| Nuclear membrane barrier | Increase permeabilization time or detergent concentration |
Implementation of these optimization strategies should resolve most technical issues encountered with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody applications.
Recent advances in computational biology offer powerful tools to enhance antibody-based research targeting nuclear proteins like SPBC13E7.08c:
Epitope prediction and antibody design: Computational methods can identify optimal epitopes for antibody targeting, improving specificity and reducing cross-reactivity. Recent approaches like those described in the literature integrate physics-based and AI-based methods for antibody design .
Binding site analysis: Molecular modeling can predict the interaction between SPBC13E7.08c and other Paf1 complex components, providing insights into functional domains that might be targeted for antibody development.
Data integration platforms: Multi-omics data integration tools can combine ChIP-seq, RNA-seq, and proteomics data to provide comprehensive insights into SPBC13E7.08c function:
| Data Type | Analysis Approach | Biological Insight |
|---|---|---|
| ChIP-seq | Peak-calling and motif analysis | Genomic binding sites and sequence preferences |
| RNA-seq | Differential expression analysis | Transcriptional impacts of SPBC13E7.08c |
| Hi-C | Topological domain identification | Chromatin boundary functions |
| Proteomics | Interaction network mapping | Protein complex partners and dynamics |
Machine learning for pattern recognition: These approaches can identify subtle chromatin state transitions at heterochromatin-euchromatin boundaries, potentially revealing new insights into SPBC13E7.08c function.
Several emerging research areas could benefit from advanced applications of SPBC13E7.08c Antibody:
Single-cell chromatin profiling: Applying SPBC13E7.08c Antibody in single-cell ChIP-seq or CUT&Tag assays could reveal cell-to-cell variability in chromatin boundary maintenance.
Phase separation investigation: Recent evidence suggests that chromatin regulators may function through biomolecular condensate formation. The role of SPBC13E7.08c in potential phase separation phenomena could be explored using:
Immunofluorescence under different cellular conditions
Co-localization with known phase separation markers
In vitro reconstitution of complexes with purified components
Evolutionary conservation studies: Comparing the function of SPBC13E7.08c homologs across species could provide insights into fundamental mechanisms of chromatin boundary regulation.
Therapeutic implications: Understanding chromatin boundary maintenance mechanisms has potential applications in diseases involving aberrant gene silencing:
| Disease Category | Potential Relevance | Research Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer | Silencing of tumor suppressors | Compare chromatin boundaries in normal vs. cancer cells |
| Neurodegenerative disorders | Dysregulation of gene expression | Examine age-related changes in boundary integrity |
| Developmental disorders | Improper temporal gene regulation | Study boundary establishment during differentiation |
These research directions represent promising avenues for extended applications of SPBC13E7.08c Antibody beyond its current usage scope.
For researchers studying chromatin boundary functions with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody, several experimental designs offer complementary insights:
Time-course experiments: Monitor SPBC13E7.08c binding during cell cycle progression or differentiation to capture dynamic changes in boundary formation and maintenance:
Synchronize cells and collect samples at defined time points
Perform ChIP-seq with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody at each time point
Correlate binding patterns with chromatin state markers
Genetic perturbation studies: Combine SPBC13E7.08c Antibody ChIP with genetic manipulations:
| Perturbation | Experimental Approach | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| SPBC13E7.08c depletion | siRNA or CRISPR knockout | Loss of boundary integrity, heterochromatin spreading |
| Paf1 complex mutation | Point mutations in interaction domains | Altered complex assembly, modified boundary function |
| Overexpression | Controlled induction system | Potentially enhanced boundary strength or ectopic boundaries |
Drug treatment profiling: Assess how chromatin-modifying compounds affect SPBC13E7.08c localization:
HDAC inhibitors (e.g., TSA, SAHA)
Histone methyltransferase inhibitors
Transcription elongation modulators
Reconstitution experiments: For mechanistic insights, deplete endogenous SPBC13E7.08c and rescue with mutant variants, then use the antibody to track localization and function of the rescue constructs.
These approaches provide complementary perspectives on the dynamic functions of SPBC13E7.08c in chromatin regulation.
Integrating SPBC13E7.08c Antibody into multi-omics experimental designs enables comprehensive understanding of chromatin boundary mechanisms:
Sequential ChIP (re-ChIP): Perform initial ChIP with SPBC13E7.08c Antibody followed by a second ChIP with antibodies against histone modifications or other chromatin factors to identify co-occupancy patterns.
ChIP-seq combined with RNA-seq:
Map SPBC13E7.08c binding sites genome-wide
Correlate with transcriptional profiles to identify genes regulated by boundary elements
Compare wild-type and SPBC13E7.08c-depleted conditions
Proteomic integration:
| Approach | Methodology | Research Insight |
|---|---|---|
| ChIP-MS | Mass spectrometry of SPBC13E7.08c-associated proteins | Identification of novel interacting partners |
| RIME | Rapid immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry of endogenous proteins | Chromatin-associated complex composition |
| Proximity labeling | BioID or APEX2 fusions with SPBC13E7.08c | Spatial protein interaction network |
Chromatin accessibility correlation:
Parallel ATAC-seq or DNase-seq to map open chromatin
Overlay with SPBC13E7.08c ChIP-seq data
Identify relationships between boundary elements and chromatin accessibility
3D genome organization:
Hi-C or Micro-C to map chromosome conformation
Integrate with SPBC13E7.08c binding sites
Determine relationship between boundaries and topological domains
This multi-dimensional approach provides a comprehensive view of SPBC13E7.08c function within the nuclear context.
While antibody-based approaches remain fundamental, several emerging technologies hold promise for expanding our understanding of SPBC13E7.08c function:
CUT&Tag and CUT&RUN: These antibody-directed nuclease techniques offer higher sensitivity and lower background than traditional ChIP, potentially providing superior resolution of SPBC13E7.08c binding sites.
Live-cell chromatin imaging: Development of antibody fragments or nanobodies against SPBC13E7.08c could enable real-time visualization of boundary dynamics in living cells.
Single-molecule approaches: Techniques like single-molecule tracking could reveal the kinetics of SPBC13E7.08c binding and dissociation at chromatin boundaries.
Cryo-EM structural analysis: Structural determination of the Leo1-Paf1 subcomplex with other Paf1C components would provide molecular insights into complex assembly and function.
CRISPR-based epigenome editing: Targeted recruitment of SPBC13E7.08c to specific genomic loci could test sufficiency for boundary formation.
These technological advances promise to complement and extend the insights gained from conventional antibody applications.
Research utilizing SPBC13E7.08c Antibody contributes to fundamental questions in genome biology:
Principles of chromatin domain insulation: Studying how SPBC13E7.08c prevents heterochromatin spreading provides insights into the general mechanisms of chromatin domain separation.
Evolutionary conservation of boundary mechanisms: Comparative studies across species can reveal fundamental principles in genome organization that have been conserved throughout evolution.
Transcription-coupled boundary formation: Understanding how transcriptional machinery components like Paf1C establish boundaries illuminates the relationship between gene expression and chromatin architecture.
Phase separation in genome organization: Investigating whether SPBC13E7.08c participates in biomolecular condensates could connect to emerging paradigms in nuclear organization.
These broader implications extend the significance of SPBC13E7.08c research beyond its specific molecular function to fundamental principles of genome biology.