ZNF260 antibodies are primarily used in:
Western Blotting (WB): Detects endogenous ZNF260 at ~46 kDa (observed molecular weight may vary due to post-translational modifications) .
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Nuclear and cytoplasmic localization observed in human stomach and breast cancer tissues .
Functional Studies: siRNA-mediated knockdown experiments to assess ZNF260’s role in cancer progression .
ZNF260 is overexpressed in hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative (HR+/HER2−) breast cancer (BC) tissues and correlates with poor prognosis:
Binds to PE response elements (PERE) to activate NPPA transcription .
Promotes Wnt/β-catenin signaling via CYP1B1 activation in BC cells .
ZNF260 is a potential biomarker for HR+/HER2− BC prognosis and a therapeutic target. Inhibiting ZNF260 suppresses tumor aggressiveness in vitro, suggesting translational relevance .
ZNF260 is a nuclear transcription factor that functions as a cardiac regulator and an effector of alpha1-adrenergic signaling pathways. The protein binds to PE response elements (PERE) present in the promoter regions of genes such as ANF/NPPA and acts as a direct transcriptional activator of NPPA. Additionally, ZNF260 serves as a cofactor with GATA4, a key cardiac regulator, suggesting its important role in cardiac development and function . The protein is primarily localized in the nucleus, which aligns with its function as a transcription factor . Immunocytochemistry studies have demonstrated nucleoplasmic localization, although some cytosolic presence has also been observed in certain cell types, indicating potential non-nuclear functions or trafficking mechanisms that warrant further investigation .
ZNF260 antibodies are employed across multiple research applications with varying degrees of optimization. The primary applications include:
These applications enable researchers to investigate ZNF260 expression, localization, and function across different experimental contexts, from protein lysates to tissue sections and cellular preparations .
Selection of the optimal ZNF260 antibody requires careful consideration of several key factors:
Epitope recognition region: Different antibodies target distinct regions of ZNF260. For instance, available antibodies recognize epitopes in the N-terminal region (AA 1-200, 64-114, or 89-115) or other specific regions (AA 101-200/412) . Select antibodies recognizing regions relevant to your research question, particularly if studying protein domains, variants, or potential cleavage products.
Host species compatibility: Most ZNF260 antibodies are raised in rabbit, which must be considered when designing multi-labeling experiments to avoid cross-reactivity with other primary or secondary antibodies .
Species reactivity: Verify the antibody's validated reactivity with your experimental model. Some antibodies react with human ZNF260 only, while others cross-react with mouse and/or rat orthologs .
Conjugation requirements: ZNF260 antibodies are available in unconjugated forms or with various conjugates (FITC, PE, HRP, Biotin) depending on the intended application .
Validation documentation: Review available validation data, including Western blot images, IHC staining patterns, or ICC/IF results provided by manufacturers to ensure the antibody demonstrates appropriate specificity and sensitivity .
The experimental context should ultimately guide your selection, with consideration for technical compatibility with existing protocols and reagents .
Proper storage and handling of ZNF260 antibodies are critical for maintaining reactivity and specificity. Based on manufacturer recommendations:
Storage temperature: Store ZNF260 antibodies at -20°C for long-term preservation, with some products stable for up to one year from receipt when properly stored .
Aliquoting practice: Divide antibodies into multiple small-volume aliquots upon receipt to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can significantly degrade antibody quality and performance .
Formulation considerations: ZNF260 antibodies are typically supplied in stabilizing buffers containing components such as:
Working solution handling: For diluted working solutions, maintain at 4°C for short-term use (typically 1-2 weeks), and avoid extended storage of diluted antibody to prevent performance degradation.
Transportation requirements: ZNF260 antibodies are typically shipped with polar packs and should be stored according to manufacturer recommendations immediately upon receipt .
Adhering to these storage practices ensures optimal antibody performance and extends the functional lifespan of these valuable research reagents .
For optimal Western blot results with ZNF260 antibodies, researchers should follow these methodological guidelines:
Sample preparation:
Prepare cell or tissue lysates in RIPA or NP-40 buffer containing protease inhibitors
Include phosphatase inhibitors if investigating phosphorylation status
Denature samples at 95°C for 5 minutes in reducing sample buffer
Gel electrophoresis:
Use 10-12% SDS-PAGE gels for optimal resolution of ZNF260 (expected MW approximately 40-50 kDa)
Load 20-50 μg total protein per lane depending on expression level
Transfer conditions:
Transfer to PVDF membrane (preferred over nitrocellulose for zinc finger proteins)
Use wet transfer at 100V for 1 hour or 30V overnight at 4°C
Blocking:
Block with 5% non-fat dry milk in TBST for 1 hour at room temperature
For phospho-specific detection, use 5% BSA in TBST instead
Antibody incubation:
Dilute primary ZNF260 antibody in blocking buffer at 1:500-2000 as recommended
Incubate overnight at 4°C with gentle agitation
Wash 3-5 times with TBST, 5 minutes each
Incubate with appropriate HRP-conjugated secondary antibody (typically anti-rabbit IgG at 1:5000-10000) for 1 hour at room temperature
Wash 3-5 times with TBST, 5 minutes each
Detection:
Use ECL reagents appropriate for the expected signal intensity
For low expression levels, consider enhanced chemiluminescence substrates
Controls:
Include positive control lysates from cells known to express ZNF260
Consider including a blocking peptide control to confirm specificity
These methodology recommendations incorporate principles from standard Western blot protocols optimized for zinc finger proteins while integrating the specific dilution ranges and conditions recommended for ZNF260 antibodies .
Thorough validation of ZNF260 antibody specificity is essential for generating reliable research data. A comprehensive validation approach should include:
Positive and negative control samples:
Peptide competition assays:
Pre-incubate the antibody with excess immunizing peptide (when available)
Perform parallel experiments with blocked and unblocked antibody
Specific signals should be significantly reduced or eliminated with peptide blocking
Genetic validation approaches:
Test antibody on ZNF260 knockout or knockdown models
The specific signal should be absent or significantly reduced
Alternatively, test on ZNF260 overexpression systems, which should show increased signal
Multiple antibody concordance:
Cross-reactivity assessment:
Evaluate potential cross-reactivity with related zinc finger proteins
Consider sequence homology in the immunogen region when selecting antibodies
Molecular weight verification:
Confirm that the detected band in Western blot corresponds to the expected molecular weight
Watch for potential post-translationally modified forms or splice variants
Immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry:
For highest confidence validation, perform IP with the antibody followed by mass spectrometric identification
These validation steps collectively provide strong evidence for antibody specificity and should be documented in publications to enhance reproducibility .
Successful immunohistochemical (IHC) detection of ZNF260 requires attention to several critical parameters:
Tissue preparation:
Fix tissues in 10% neutral buffered formalin for 24-48 hours
Process and embed in paraffin following standard histological procedures
Section at 4-5 μm thickness onto charged slides
Antigen retrieval (critical step):
Blocking and permeabilization:
Block endogenous peroxidase with 3% hydrogen peroxide for 10 minutes
Block non-specific binding with 5-10% normal serum from the same species as the secondary antibody
For nuclear antigens like ZNF260, ensure adequate permeabilization using 0.2-0.5% Triton X-100 in PBS for 10 minutes
Antibody incubation:
Detection and counterstaining:
Develop with DAB or other chromogen
Counterstain with hematoxylin for nuclear visualization
Dehydrate, clear, and mount with permanent mounting medium
Controls and interpretation:
Include positive control tissues (cardiac tissue shows strong nuclear positivity)
Note that while ZNF260 is primarily nuclear, some cytoplasmic staining may be observed in certain cell types, particularly glandular cells in stomach tissue
Evaluate staining intensity and distribution pattern rather than simple presence/absence
This protocol maximizes the likelihood of specific ZNF260 detection while minimizing background and non-specific staining .
ZNF260 antibodies offer powerful tools for investigating cardiac development and pathology due to the protein's role as a cardiac regulator and effector of alpha1-adrenergic signaling . Advanced research applications include:
Developmental expression profiling:
Employ immunohistochemistry with ZNF260 antibodies on embryonic heart sections at different developmental stages
Correlate ZNF260 expression patterns with cardiac chamber formation and maturation
Use dual immunofluorescence with cardiac progenitor markers to identify ZNF260's role in lineage commitment
Pathological alterations in cardiac disease models:
Compare ZNF260 expression and localization in normal versus diseased heart tissues (hypertrophy, failure, ischemia)
Quantify expression changes using Western blot with normalization to appropriate loading controls
Assess potential alterations in post-translational modifications that may affect function
Mechanistic investigations of alpha1-adrenergic signaling:
Use ZNF260 antibodies in chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays to identify genomic binding sites
Combine with RNA-seq after alpha1-adrenergic stimulation to correlate binding with transcriptional changes
Perform co-immunoprecipitation to detect dynamic interactions with GATA4 and other cardiac transcription factors
Cellular response to stress:
Monitor ZNF260 expression, localization, and post-translational modifications during hypoxia, oxidative stress, or mechanical strain
Correlate changes with activation of fetal gene programs characteristic of cardiac remodeling
Therapeutic target validation:
Use immunoblotting to assess ZNF260 modulation in response to cardioprotective compounds
Evaluate ZNF260 as a potential biomarker for cardiac pathologies or treatment response
These approaches leverage ZNF260 antibodies to elucidate fundamental mechanisms in cardiac biology and pathophysiology, potentially identifying new therapeutic targets or diagnostic biomarkers .
ZNF260's function as a cofactor with GATA4 and other cardiac transcription factors provides a rich area for advanced investigation . Researchers can employ several sophisticated approaches:
Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) strategies:
Perform reciprocal Co-IPs using antibodies against ZNF260 and GATA4
Optimize lysis conditions to preserve nuclear protein complexes (typically using non-denaturing buffers)
Consider crosslinking approaches for transient interactions
Analyze precipitated complexes by Western blot or mass spectrometry to identify additional interaction partners
Proximity ligation assays (PLA):
Utilize ZNF260 antibodies in combination with GATA4 antibodies for in situ PLA
This approach provides spatial resolution of interactions within specific subcellular compartments
Quantify interaction events in different cardiac cell types or under various physiological conditions
Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq):
Perform parallel ChIP-seq with ZNF260 and GATA4 antibodies
Identify genomic regions co-occupied by both factors
Correlate binding with gene expression data to determine functional significance
Consider sequential ChIP (Re-ChIP) to definitively identify co-occupied regions
Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC):
Generate fusion constructs of ZNF260 and potential partners with split fluorescent protein fragments
Visualize interactions through reconstitution of fluorescence when proteins interact
This approach allows visualization of interactions in living cells
Domain mapping of interactions:
Functional assays of transcriptional synergy:
Employ reporter gene assays with promoters containing PERE elements and GATA binding sites
Assess transcriptional output with individual factors versus combinations
Use ZNF260 antibodies in chromatin immunoprecipitation to correlate occupancy with transcriptional activity
These methodologies provide complementary approaches to comprehensively characterize the functional interactions between ZNF260 and cardiac transcription factors at molecular, cellular, and genomic levels .
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of ZNF260 represent an important regulatory layer that can significantly impact antibody recognition and protein function. Advanced researchers should consider:
Common PTMs affecting zinc finger proteins:
Phosphorylation: Often regulates DNA binding affinity and protein-protein interactions
SUMOylation: Frequently modifies nuclear transcription factors
Ubiquitination: Controls protein turnover and potentially signaling functions
Acetylation: May regulate DNA binding specificity and transcriptional activity
Impact on antibody recognition:
Epitope masking: PTMs can sterically block antibody binding sites
Conformational changes: Modifications may alter protein folding, affecting antibody accessibility
Enhanced recognition: Some antibodies may preferentially recognize modified forms
Detection strategies for ZNF260 PTMs:
| Modification | Detection Method | Technical Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Phosphorylation | Phospho-specific antibodies, Phos-tag gels | Phosphatase inhibitors essential during lysis; consider lambda phosphatase treatment as control |
| SUMOylation | Co-IP under denaturing conditions with SUMO antibodies | NEM in lysis buffer to inhibit SUMO proteases |
| Ubiquitination | IP under denaturing conditions followed by ubiquitin detection | Proteasome inhibitors (MG132) pre-treatment |
| Acetylation | IP followed by acetyl-lysine antibody detection | Deacetylase inhibitors during sample preparation |
Modification-specific experimental approaches:
Use different ZNF260 antibodies recognizing distinct epitopes (e.g., AA 1-200, AA 64-114, AA 89-115)
Compare recognition patterns across different conditions known to induce specific PTMs
Employ mass spectrometry following immunoprecipitation to identify and map modifications
Create site-specific mutants to validate the identity and function of modified residues
Functional implications assessment:
Correlate PTM status with DNA binding activity using ChIP
Assess protein-protein interactions in relation to modification state
Evaluate subcellular localization changes dependent on modification
Understanding the PTM landscape of ZNF260 provides insights into its regulation in different physiological and pathological contexts, potentially revealing new intervention points for cardiac conditions .
Multiplexed detection systems offer powerful insights into complex biological processes by simultaneously visualizing multiple targets. When incorporating ZNF260 antibodies into such systems, researchers should consider:
Antibody compatibility factors:
Host species selection: Most ZNF260 antibodies are rabbit-derived, requiring careful planning when combining with other primary antibodies
Isotype considerations: ZNF260 antibodies are typically IgG, which influences secondary antibody selection
Available conjugates: ZNF260 antibodies come in various forms including unconjugated, FITC-conjugated, PE-conjugated, and HRP-conjugated versions
Spectral separation strategies:
Multiplexed immunohistochemistry approaches:
Sequential immunostaining with ZNF260 antibodies:
Perform complete staining with first antibody, including detection
Strip or inactivate first round reagents
Proceed with second antibody staining
Tyramide signal amplification (TSA) for sequential multi-color IHC using antibodies from the same host species
Spatial considerations:
ZNF260's primarily nuclear localization facilitates co-staining with cytoplasmic or membrane markers
When combining with other nuclear transcription factors, high-resolution imaging may be necessary for colocalization analysis
Consider super-resolution microscopy for detailed nuclear colocalization studies
Quantitative analysis planning:
Design appropriate controls for spectral bleed-through
Include single-stained controls for each fluorophore
Plan for quantitative colocalization analysis using appropriate software tools
Consider automated image analysis workflows for consistent quantification
Cross-platform validation:
Validate multiplexed findings using complementary techniques (e.g., confirm imaging results with biochemical approaches)
Consider multi-omic approaches combining antibody-based detection with transcriptomic or proteomic analyses
These considerations ensure robust, artifact-free multiplexed detection involving ZNF260, enabling reliable investigation of its interactions, modifications, and functional relationships in complex biological systems .
Researchers may encounter several challenges when using ZNF260 antibodies for Western blotting. Here are the common issues and their solutions:
Weak or absent signal:
Increase antibody concentration within recommended ranges (1:500-1:2000)
Extend primary antibody incubation time to overnight at 4°C
Increase protein loading (50-100 μg total protein)
Enhance sensitivity with stronger detection reagents (e.g., femto-level ECL substrates)
Verify sample preparation - ensure adequate lysis of nuclear proteins using appropriate buffers
High background or non-specific bands:
Decrease antibody concentration
Increase blocking time or concentration (5-10% milk or BSA)
Add 0.1-0.5% Tween-20 to antibody dilution buffer
Increase washing stringency (more washes, longer duration)
Consider alternative blocking agents (casein, commercial blockers)
Prepare fresh buffers to eliminate contamination
Multiple bands:
Determine if bands represent splice variants, degradation products, or post-translational modifications
Run positive control samples with known expression
Consider peptide competition assays to identify specific bands
Use gradient gels for better resolution of closely migrating species
Verify with antibodies targeting different epitopes of ZNF260
Inconsistent results between experiments:
Antibody performance degradation over time:
By implementing these technical adjustments and quality control measures, researchers can optimize Western blot protocols for reliable and reproducible detection of ZNF260 protein .
Optimizing immunofluorescence (IF) protocols for ZNF260 detection requires careful attention to fixation, permeabilization, and detection parameters:
Fixation optimization:
Test multiple fixation methods:
4% paraformaldehyde (10-15 minutes) - preserves structure but may mask some epitopes
Methanol (-20°C, 10 minutes) - better for some nuclear antigens but can distort membranes
Combined PFA/methanol - PFA followed by methanol permeabilization
Manufacturer recommends PFA fixation with Triton X-100 permeabilization
Permeabilization strategies:
For nuclear transcription factors like ZNF260, permeabilization is critical
Test various permeabilization agents and concentrations:
0.1-0.5% Triton X-100 (10 minutes)
0.1-0.5% NP-40 (5-10 minutes)
0.1-0.3% Saponin (15 minutes) - gentler but may require inclusion in all buffers
Optimize time and temperature for each cell type
Cell type-specific considerations:
Adherent vs. suspension cells: Suspension cells may require cytospin or attachment to charged slides
Primary vs. immortalized cells: Primary cells often have lower expression, requiring signal amplification
Cardiac vs. non-cardiac cells: Expression levels vary significantly, requiring different antibody dilutions
Antibody dilution and incubation optimization:
Optimize incubation time and temperature (1 hour at room temperature vs. overnight at 4°C)
Consider signal amplification methods for low expression:
Tyramide signal amplification
Biotin-streptavidin amplification
Sequential antibody layering
Background reduction strategies:
Extended blocking (1-2 hours with 5-10% normal serum)
Add 0.1-0.3% Triton X-100 to antibody dilution buffer
Include 1% BSA in all antibody dilutions
Consider autofluorescence quenching for certain tissues:
Sodium borohydride treatment
Sudan Black B treatment
Commercial autofluorescence quenchers
Counterstaining and mounting considerations:
DAPI or Hoechst for nuclear counterstaining
Phalloidin for F-actin visualization if studying cytoskeletal relationships
Use mounting media with anti-fade properties to prevent photobleaching
Consider hardset mounting media for long-term preservation
Verification approaches:
Perform Z-stack imaging to confirm nuclear localization
Include positive controls (cardiac cell lines) and negative controls (primary antibody omission)
Consider co-staining with markers of nuclear compartments to precisely localize ZNF260
These optimizations allow detection of both the predominant nuclear ZNF260 population and any cytosolic fraction that may be present in certain cell types or conditions .
ZNF260 antibodies offer valuable tools for dissecting complex transcriptional networks in cardiac biology:
Genome-wide binding site identification:
ChIP-seq using validated ZNF260 antibodies can map all genomic binding sites
Integration with histone modification data reveals the epigenetic context of binding
Motif analysis of binding regions identifies potential co-regulatory factors
This approach has revealed ZNF260 binding to PE response elements (PERE) in promoters of cardiac genes like ANF/NPPA
Dynamic regulatory complex assembly:
Sequential ChIP (Re-ChIP) with ZNF260 and GATA4 antibodies identifies co-occupied genomic regions
Temporal analysis during development or disease progression reveals dynamic assembly of regulatory complexes
Investigation of alpha1-adrenergic signaling pathways and their impact on ZNF260-mediated transcription
Single-cell approaches:
Single-cell immunofluorescence with ZNF260 antibodies reveals heterogeneity in cardiac progenitor populations
Correlation with single-cell transcriptomics identifies cell state-specific functions
Spatial transcriptomics combined with ZNF260 immunostaining connects protein localization with local gene expression
Protein interaction networks:
Proximity labeling approaches (BioID, APEX) combined with ZNF260 antibodies for validation
Construction of ZNF260-centered protein interaction networks in normal and diseased hearts
Integration with transcriptomic data to build comprehensive gene regulatory networks
Clinical correlations and biomarker potential:
Quantitative analysis of ZNF260 expression in patient samples using validated antibodies
Correlation with cardiac disease progression and treatment response
Evaluation as a potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarker
These approaches collectively enable construction of comprehensive models of cardiac transcriptional regulation, with ZNF260 functioning as both an effector of alpha1-adrenergic signaling and a cofactor with key cardiac regulators like GATA4 .
Cardiac regeneration represents a frontier in cardiovascular medicine, and ZNF260's function as a cardiac transcription factor positions it as a potential player in regenerative processes. ZNF260 antibodies can facilitate several innovative research approaches:
Developmental cardiomyocyte proliferation studies:
Immunostaining for ZNF260 in combination with proliferation markers (Ki67, pH3, EdU) during cardiac development
Analysis of ZNF260 expression dynamics during the transition from proliferative to post-mitotic cardiomyocytes
Correlation with cell cycle regulators to identify potential regulatory relationships
Reprogramming factor screening:
Assessment of ZNF260 expression during direct cardiac reprogramming of fibroblasts
Testing ZNF260 as a potential reprogramming factor alone or in combination with established factors
Antibody-based validation of successful reprogramming through monitoring nuclear localization patterns
Injury response monitoring:
Temporal and spatial analysis of ZNF260 expression following cardiac injury in animal models
Co-localization studies with markers of activated cardiac progenitors
Correlation with regenerative capacity across species with different regenerative potentials
Stem cell differentiation tracking:
Monitoring ZNF260 expression during cardiac differentiation of pluripotent stem cells
Identification of ZNF260-expressing subpopulations with enhanced cardiogenic potential
Assessment of ZNF260's role in cardiac subtype specification (ventricular, atrial, nodal)
Therapeutic manipulation assessment:
Evaluation of ZNF260 modulation following administration of pro-regenerative compounds
Correlation of ZNF260 activity with functional recovery in cardiac injury models
Antibody-based screening assays for compounds that modulate ZNF260 expression or activity
Mechanistic investigations:
ChIP-seq in regenerating cardiac tissue to identify regeneration-specific ZNF260 target genes
Analysis of ZNF260 post-translational modifications during regenerative processes
Investigation of ZNF260's interaction with the Hippo pathway and other known regulators of cardiac regeneration
These research directions leverage ZNF260 antibodies to explore the protein's potential roles in cardiac regeneration, potentially identifying new therapeutic targets or approaches for heart disease .