ZNF703 (Zinc Finger Protein 703) is a 590 amino acid nuclear protein characterized by a single C2H2-type zinc finger domain crucial for transcriptional regulation . As a transcriptional corepressor that does not bind directly to DNA, ZNF703 regulates gene expression through recruitment of histone deacetylases to gene promoters . This protein plays critical roles in cell growth, differentiation, and development, with significant implications in cancer research and developmental biology .
The gene encoding ZNF703 is located on human chromosome 8, a region associated with numerous genetic disorders and malignancies, which highlights the importance of understanding ZNF703 function and interactions . Its involvement in multiple cellular processes makes it a valuable research target for understanding both normal development and pathological conditions.
ZNF703 antibodies demonstrate versatility across multiple laboratory techniques:
Western Blotting (WB): For detecting and quantifying ZNF703 protein expression levels in cell or tissue lysates .
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): For visualizing ZNF703 expression patterns in tissue sections, particularly in paraffin-embedded samples of tissues like breast carcinoma .
Immunofluorescence (IF): For cellular localization studies showing that ZNF703 localizes to both the cytoplasm and nucleus .
Immunoprecipitation (IP): For isolating ZNF703 protein complexes to study protein-protein interactions .
ChIP-seq and ChIP-PCR: For identifying genomic binding sites of ZNF703 and understanding its role in transcriptional regulation .
Selecting the appropriate ZNF703 antibody requires consideration of several factors:
Target species compatibility: Ensure the antibody detects ZNF703 in your species of interest. Available antibodies react with human, mouse, and rat ZNF703 proteins, with some offering cross-reactivity to dog, pig, cow, and other mammals .
Application compatibility: Verify the antibody is validated for your specific application (WB, IHC, IF, ELISA, ChIP, etc.). For example, sc-271896 is validated for WB, IP, IF, IHC(P), and ELISA , while ABIN7248233 is specifically validated for ELISA and IHC .
Epitope recognition: Consider which region of ZNF703 the antibody recognizes. Different antibodies target different epitopes:
Antibody format: Choose between conjugated (HRP, PE, FITC, Alexa Fluor, biotin) or unconjugated formats based on your detection method .
Clonality: Select between monoclonal (more specific) or polyclonal (potentially more sensitive) antibodies based on your experimental needs .
ChIP-seq with ZNF703 antibodies requires careful optimization for identification of genomic binding sites. The procedure follows these methodological steps:
Cell preparation: Culture approximately 5 × 10^7 cells (as demonstrated with OVCAR3 cells) in standard conditions with 10% FBS .
Cross-linking and sonication: Cross-link cells to preserve protein-DNA interactions, then extract nuclear lysate and sonicate to fragment chromatin .
Immunoprecipitation: Use highly specific ZNF703 monoclonal antibodies to precipitate the protein along with its bound DNA fragments .
Library preparation and sequencing: Process the immunoprecipitated DNA for deep sequencing following standard ChIP-seq protocols .
Data analysis pipeline:
This approach has been successfully employed to investigate ZNF703's role in transcriptional regulation in ovarian cancer, revealing its influence on downstream targets . The specificity of the antibody is crucial for minimizing background and identifying true binding sites.
ZNF703 exhibits dual localization to both the cytoplasm and nucleus, which has important implications for its function as a transcriptional regulator . This dynamic localization may reflect different functional states of the protein and potentially its involvement in signaling pathways.
Methodological approaches to accurately determine ZNF703 subcellular localization include:
Immunofluorescence microscopy:
Subcellular fractionation and Western blotting:
Separate nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions biochemically
Perform Western blot using ZNF703 antibody
Include proper loading controls for each fraction
Co-localization studies:
Combine ZNF703 staining with markers of specific subcellular compartments
Analyze co-localization with nuclear transport proteins to assess regulation of nuclear import/export
The biological significance of ZNF703's subcellular distribution relates to its function as a transcriptional corepressor, where nuclear localization is essential for direct effects on gene expression, while cytoplasmic localization may indicate inactive states or non-transcriptional functions .
Optimizing co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) experiments with ZNF703 antibodies requires careful consideration of several parameters:
Antibody selection: Choose antibodies specifically validated for immunoprecipitation applications, such as sc-271896 (E-6) . Consider using agarose-conjugated versions (e.g., sc-271896 AC) to eliminate secondary antibody steps .
Lysis buffer optimization:
Use non-denaturing buffers to preserve protein-protein interactions
Include appropriate detergents (e.g., 0.5% NP-40 or 1% Triton X-100)
Add protease and phosphatase inhibitors
Consider including EDTA to chelate metal ions that might disrupt zinc finger structures
Cross-linking considerations:
For transient interactions, consider using reversible cross-linkers
Optimize cross-linking time and conditions to capture interactions without creating non-specific aggregates
Controls:
Include IgG control from the same species as the ZNF703 antibody
Consider using ZNF703-depleted cells as negative controls
Include known interaction partners as positive controls when possible
Detection strategies:
For western blot detection, use antibodies raised in different species than the IP antibody
Consider protein A/G conjugated to HRP for detection to avoid heavy chain interference
For mass spectrometry analysis, optimize elution conditions to maximize recovery
This approach has been successfully used to detect interactions between ZNF703 and other proteins, including HE4 in ovarian cancer research . The antibody's specificity and affinity are critical for successful co-IP experiments.
When using ZNF703 antibodies for Western blot, researchers may encounter several challenges:
Low signal strength:
Solution: Optimize antibody concentration (typically 1:500 to 1:2000 dilution range for most ZNF703 antibodies)
Solution: Increase protein loading (30μg of whole cell extract has been successful)
Solution: Enhance detection with amplification systems or more sensitive substrates
Solution: Consider using HRP-conjugated versions of the antibody for direct detection
Multiple bands/non-specific binding:
Solution: Increase blocking time and concentration
Solution: Optimize washing steps (number, duration, buffer composition)
Solution: Use more specific monoclonal antibodies when available
Solution: Validate bands by including positive controls (e.g., cell lines known to express ZNF703) and negative controls
Unexpected molecular weight detection:
Solution: ZNF703 has a calculated MW of 58kDa ; if bands appear at different sizes, consider post-translational modifications or alternative isoforms
Solution: Include known positive controls (e.g., MCF-7 cell line) to confirm correct band identification
Solution: Use recombinant ZNF703 as a positive control for size verification
Poor reproducibility:
Solution: Standardize lysate preparation methods
Solution: Use fresh antibody aliquots and avoid freeze-thaw cycles
Solution: Carefully control transfer conditions, particularly for this nuclear protein
Gel separation issues:
Optimizing immunohistochemistry (IHC) protocols for ZNF703 detection requires tissue-specific adjustments:
Antigen retrieval optimization:
Antibody dilution optimization:
Incubation conditions:
Test both overnight incubation at 4°C versus 1-2 hours at room temperature
Optimize humidity control to prevent tissue drying
Consider using antibody diluents with background-reducing components
Detection system selection:
For low expression tissues, use amplification systems (e.g., tyramide signal amplification)
For co-localization studies, consider fluorescence-based detection
For routine detection, HRP-polymer systems provide good sensitivity and lower background
Controls and validation:
Counterstaining optimization:
Adjust hematoxylin intensity to maintain visibility of nuclear ZNF703 staining
For dual staining, select compatible chromogens or fluorophores
These optimizations should be systematically documented to ensure reproducibility across different tissue types and experimental conditions.
Improving specificity in immunofluorescence (IF) experiments for ZNF703 detection requires several methodological refinements:
Fixation optimization:
Permeabilization refinement:
Optimize detergent type (Triton X-100, Tween-20, saponin) and concentration
Adjust permeabilization time to balance antibody access versus preservation of cellular structures
For nuclear proteins like ZNF703, ensure adequate nuclear permeabilization
Blocking enhancement:
Use species-matched serum (5-10%) combined with BSA (1-3%)
Consider commercial blocking solutions specifically designed for IF
Extend blocking time (1-2 hours) to reduce non-specific binding
Antibody validation approaches:
Perform peptide competition assays to confirm specificity
Use cells with confirmed ZNF703 knockdown as negative controls
Compare staining patterns with multiple antibodies targeting different ZNF703 epitopes
Signal-to-noise improvement:
Implement rigorous washing procedures between steps (3-5 washes)
Use 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 in wash buffers to reduce background
Consider using Sudan Black B (0.1-0.3%) to quench autofluorescence
Co-localization strategies:
Combine ZNF703 staining with established nuclear markers
Use confocal microscopy with appropriate controls for bleed-through
Apply quantitative co-localization analysis to validate subcellular distribution
Dilution optimization:
ZNF703's role in cancer development is multifaceted, with antibody-based research revealing several key mechanisms:
Transcriptional regulation: As a transcriptional corepressor, ZNF703 regulates multiple genes involved in cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration . Antibody-based ChIP-seq studies have identified its genomic targets, providing insights into its regulatory network .
Cancer-specific expression patterns: Immunohistochemical studies using ZNF703 antibodies have demonstrated upregulation in various cancers, including breast carcinoma and colorectal carcinoma . This differential expression suggests potential roles as a biomarker.
Ovarian cancer progression: ZNF703 antibody research has revealed its role in promoting tumor progression in ovarian cancer . Studies using antibodies for detection have demonstrated interactions with other proteins, including HE4, suggesting complex regulatory mechanisms.
Cellular migration and invasion: Antibody-based detection methods have shown ZNF703's contribution to cancer cell migration and invasion capabilities, potentially contributing to metastatic potential.
Signaling pathway integration: Co-immunoprecipitation studies using ZNF703 antibodies have identified interactions with various signaling components, placing it within critical cancer-related pathways.
Research applications of ZNF703 antibodies in cancer research include:
Prognostic evaluation through tissue microarray analysis
Therapeutic target validation through detection of expression changes
Mechanistic studies through ChIP-seq and protein interaction analyses
Biomarker development through correlation with clinical outcomes
These applications highlight the importance of specific and sensitive ZNF703 antibodies in advancing our understanding of cancer biology and developing potential therapeutic strategies.
ZNF703 plays important roles in developmental processes, particularly in hindbrain development and cellular differentiation . Antibody-based approaches provide valuable tools for investigating these developmental functions:
Developmental expression mapping:
Immunohistochemistry with ZNF703 antibodies can track expression patterns throughout embryonic development
Whole-mount immunostaining in model organisms can reveal spatial and temporal expression dynamics
Tissue-specific expression analysis can identify developmental programs potentially regulated by ZNF703
Lineage-specific differentiation studies:
Immunofluorescence combined with lineage markers can identify cell types expressing ZNF703 during development
Flow cytometry with ZNF703 antibodies can quantify expression levels during differentiation processes
Single-cell analysis techniques can reveal heterogeneity in ZNF703 expression within developing tissues
Functional interaction studies:
Co-immunoprecipitation with ZNF703 antibodies can identify developmental stage-specific protein interactions
Proximity ligation assays can visualize interactions in situ during development
ChIP-seq across developmental timepoints can track changes in genomic binding sites
Developmental phenotype analysis:
Correlation of ZNF703 expression (detected by antibodies) with developmental phenotypes
Conditional knockout/knockdown validation using antibody-based detection of protein loss
Rescue experiments monitored through antibody detection of exogenous ZNF703
Mammary gland development:
These antibody-based approaches can help elucidate ZNF703's role in normal development, which in turn may provide insights into its functions in pathological conditions like cancer.
ZNF703 antibodies are finding increasing applications in therapeutic development and biomarker research:
Biomarker development:
Immunohistochemical analysis of cancer tissues is revealing ZNF703 as a potential prognostic biomarker
Antibody-based tissue microarray studies can correlate ZNF703 expression with clinical outcomes
Quantitative assays (ELISA, Luminex) using ZNF703 antibodies may enable liquid biopsy applications
Multiplexed antibody panels including ZNF703 could improve diagnostic accuracy
Therapeutic target validation:
Antibody-based screening can identify compounds that modulate ZNF703 expression or activity
ZNF703 antibodies enable monitoring of target engagement in drug development
Proximity-based assays using ZNF703 antibodies can identify compounds disrupting key protein interactions
ChIP-seq with ZNF703 antibodies can assess effects of potential therapeutics on genomic binding
Combination therapy research:
Antibody-based detection of ZNF703 in pathways affected by existing therapies can suggest synergistic combinations
Monitoring ZNF703 expression or activity in response to treatments can identify resistance mechanisms
Correlation of ZNF703 levels with treatment response may guide personalized medicine approaches
Cellular response monitoring:
Therapeutic antibody development:
While current ZNF703 antibodies are research tools, knowledge gained could inform development of therapeutic antibodies targeting accessible epitopes
Antibody-drug conjugates could potentially deliver cytotoxic payloads to ZNF703-expressing cells
Bispecific antibodies could link ZNF703-expressing cells to immune effector cells
These emerging applications highlight the potential of ZNF703 antibodies to bridge basic research with clinical applications, particularly in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
Monoclonal and polyclonal ZNF703 antibodies offer distinct advantages and limitations for research applications:
Selection considerations:
For quantitative comparisons across experiments or samples, monoclonal antibodies offer better consistency
For initial detection in new experimental systems, polyclonal antibodies may provide higher likelihood of detection
For co-immunoprecipitation, monoclonal antibodies may provide cleaner results
For applications requiring detection of multiple isoforms, polyclonal antibodies may be preferable
Both types have been successfully used for ZNF703 detection across various applications, with selection depending on specific experimental requirements and priorities.
Validating ZNF703 antibody specificity requires a multi-faceted approach:
Genetic validation approaches:
Peptide competition assays:
Pre-incubate antibody with the immunizing peptide
Compare signal with and without peptide competition
Specific binding should be significantly reduced after peptide competition
Multiple antibody comparison:
Test multiple antibodies targeting different ZNF703 epitopes
Compare staining/detection patterns for consistency
Use both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies when possible
Cross-species reactivity assessment:
Test antibody in species with high ZNF703 homology
Compare detected molecular weights with predicted values
Verify that species specificity matches manufacturer claims
Positive control samples:
Recombinant protein controls:
Use purified recombinant ZNF703 as a positive control
Verify antibody detects recombinant protein at expected molecular weight
Consider using tagged recombinant protein with independent detection method
Application-specific validation:
Method-independent validation:
Compare protein detection with mRNA expression data
Verify correlation between protein and transcript levels
Use proteomics approaches for independent protein identification
Thorough validation ensures experimental results are truly reflective of ZNF703 biology rather than artifacts of non-specific antibody binding.
Proper storage and handling of ZNF703 antibodies are crucial for maintaining their performance across experimental applications:
Storage temperature:
Store antibodies at -20°C for long-term storage
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles by preparing single-use aliquots
For conjugated antibodies (HRP, fluorescent dyes), protect from light during storage
Working dilution preparation:
Prepare fresh working dilutions on the day of use
Use high-quality, filtered buffers for dilution
For immunohistochemistry, prepare antibody dilutions in appropriate diluents with stabilizers
Preservatives and stabilizers:
Most commercial ZNF703 antibodies contain preservatives (e.g., sodium azide)
Note that sodium azide is incompatible with HRP-based detection systems
Consider adding protein stabilizers (BSA, gelatin) to working dilutions
Contamination prevention:
Use sterile technique when handling antibodies
Filter buffers used for antibody dilution
Avoid introducing bacteria or fungi that can degrade antibodies
Transport conditions:
Transport on ice or with cold packs
Minimize exposure to extreme temperatures
Avoid prolonged periods at room temperature
Stability monitoring:
Include positive controls in each experiment to monitor antibody performance over time
Document lot numbers and performance characteristics
Consider implementing stability testing program for critical antibodies
Application-specific considerations:
For Western blot applications: Dilute in blocking buffer containing 0.1% Tween-20
For IHC applications: Use specialized diluents that enhance specificity
For IF applications: Filter antibody solutions to remove aggregates
Antibody type-specific handling:
Following these guidelines will help ensure consistent performance and extend the useful life of ZNF703 antibodies in research applications.
Emerging antibody technologies hold significant promise for advancing ZNF703 research:
Single-domain antibodies (nanobodies):
Smaller size may improve nuclear penetration for detecting ZNF703
Enhanced access to epitopes in native conformations
Potential for live-cell imaging of ZNF703 dynamics
Improved signal-to-noise ratio in super-resolution microscopy applications
Recombinant antibody engineering:
Generation of highly specific recombinant ZNF703 antibodies with reduced batch-to-batch variation
Creation of bispecific antibodies targeting ZNF703 and interaction partners simultaneously
Development of antibody fragments optimized for specific applications
Humanized antibodies for potential therapeutic applications
Spatially-resolved antibody-based detection:
Integration with spatial transcriptomics to correlate ZNF703 protein expression with gene expression patterns
Multiplexed imaging with cyclic immunofluorescence for comprehensive pathway analysis
Mass cytometry (CyTOF) with ZNF703 antibodies for single-cell protein analysis
Imaging mass cytometry for tissue-level ZNF703 detection with subcellular resolution
Proximity-based detection methods:
Proximity ligation assays to visualize ZNF703 interactions in situ
FRET/BRET-based reporters utilizing ZNF703 antibodies or fragments
BioID or APEX2 proximity labeling to identify novel ZNF703 interaction partners
Split-protein complementation assays to study dynamic ZNF703 interactions
Intrabody applications:
Development of intracellularly expressed antibodies against ZNF703
Targeted degradation of ZNF703 using proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs)
Modulation of ZNF703 activity in specific cellular compartments
Real-time tracking of endogenous ZNF703 dynamics
Antibody-based sensors:
Development of biosensors for ZNF703 conformational changes
Creation of reporters for ZNF703 post-translational modifications
Sensors for monitoring ZNF703 nuclear translocation in real-time
Detection of ZNF703 interaction with DNA or chromatin components
These technological advances could significantly enhance our understanding of ZNF703's function in normal development and disease pathogenesis, potentially leading to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Several critical research gaps in ZNF703 biology could be addressed using antibody-based approaches:
Post-translational modification landscape:
Development of modification-specific antibodies to detect phosphorylation, SUMOylation, or other modifications
ChIP-seq with modification-specific ZNF703 antibodies to understand how modifications affect genomic binding
Correlation of specific modifications with ZNF703 function in different cellular contexts
Tissue-specific interaction networks:
Co-immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry across different tissues and cancer types
Proximity ligation assays to verify interactions in situ
Comparison of ZNF703 interactomes in normal versus diseased tissues
Regulatory mechanisms controlling ZNF703 expression and activity:
Antibody-based detection of ZNF703 levels following various stimuli
Analysis of nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling using compartment-specific fractionation
Investigation of protein stability and turnover rates in different cellular contexts
Role in therapy resistance mechanisms:
Monitoring ZNF703 expression changes during acquisition of therapy resistance
Correlation of ZNF703 levels with treatment response
Identification of downstream effectors mediating resistance phenotypes
Developmental roles beyond hindbrain development:
Comprehensive immunohistochemical analysis across embryonic development
Investigation of ZNF703's role in tissue-specific stem cell populations
Analysis of ZNF703 expression during cellular reprogramming
Functional differences between ZNF703 isoforms:
Development of isoform-specific antibodies
Characterization of isoform-specific interactomes
Analysis of differential subcellular localization of isoforms
Dynamics of ZNF703 genomic binding:
Time-course ChIP-seq studies following various stimuli
Analysis of pioneer factor activity in chromatin remodeling
Investigation of cooperative binding with other transcription factors
Potential extracellular functions:
Exploration of potential secreted forms using antibody-based detection
Investigation of ZNF703 as a biomarker in liquid biopsies
Analysis of potential non-cell-autonomous effects
Addressing these research gaps would significantly advance our understanding of ZNF703 biology and potentially reveal new therapeutic targets or diagnostic approaches in diseases associated with ZNF703 dysregulation.