Anti-Connexin 43 Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody for WB, IF/ICC, IHC-P, ELISA - P17302

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: Connexin 43 Function and Localization

• Gap junction alpha-1 protein, commonly known as Connexin-43 (Cx43), is encoded by the GJA1 gene. It belongs to the connexin gene family and is the major gap junction protein in many tissues.
• Cx43 hexamerizes to form connexons that dock head-to-head with counterparts on adjacent cells, creating intercellular channels that permit passive diffusion of ions and small metabolites. This direct cell-to-cell communication is essential for tissue synchronization and homeostasis.
• In the cardiovascular system, Cx43 is highly expressed at intercalated disks of cardiomyocytes and is critical for heart morphogenesis, electrical conduction, and coordinated contraction. Related references: PMID:11741837, PMID:18662195, PMID:38375917
• Beyond basic channel function, Cx43 plays a pivotal role in innate antiviral immunity. It forms channels that transfer 2',3'-cGAMP and 2',5'-oligoadenylates from virus-infected cells to neighboring cells and macrophages, thereby propagating and amplifying the type I interferon response. Related references: PMID:24077100, PMID:31992625, PMID:40010341
• Subcellularly, Cx43 primarily resides in the plasma membrane at gap junction plaques, but a pool also localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum, likely involved in channel assembly or signaling.
• Cx43 undergoes extensive post‑translational modifications including phosphorylation, acetylation, S‑nitrosylation, and ubiquitination, which regulate channel gating, trafficking, and turnover.
• Tissues with high Cx43 expression include heart, skin (keratinocytes), and fetal cochlea, underscoring its roles in cardiac conduction, epidermal barrier function, and potassium recycling in hearing. Related references: PMID:11741837, PMID:18662195, PMID:38375917, PMID:26604139
• Pathogenic mutations in GJA1 are linked to autosomal dominant disorders such as oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD), palmoplantar keratoderma with hypotrichosis, and syndromic congenital heart defects, highlighting the protein's pleiotropic importance.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• For Western blotting, the theoretical molecular weight of Cx43 is approximately 43 kDa, but multiple bands (including phosphorylated forms) may be observed. Include appropriate positive (e.g., heart tissue lysate) and negative controls, and validate results using the relevant model system.
• For immunofluorescence and ICC, expect punctate membrane staining at cell‑cell interfaces. Since the immunogen maps to the intracellular C‑terminus (aa 233–382), permeabilization is required for epitope access.
• In IHC‑P, antigen retrieval conditions should be optimized on known Cx43‑expressing tissues such as heart or skin. Consider using the antibody at a range of dilutions to determine the optimal signal‑to‑noise ratio.
• This antibody is reported to cross‑react with human, mouse, and rat. For other species, verify sequence homology of the immunogen region before use.
• The recombinant immunogen spans a conserved region; therefore, the antibody may recognize multiple Cx43 isoforms or homologs. Verify specificity by knockdown or knockout experiments in the relevant cell or tissue type.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio offers diagnostic manufacturers and research groups a streamlined supply of high‑performance IVD raw materials, including this anti‑Connexin 43 polyclonal antibody for gap junction and innate immunity research. Our portfolio spans validated antibody pairs, optimized monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, and bulk ancillary reagents, all supported by expert technical consulting. By acting as a single‑point sourcing bridge, CamelBio helps you accelerate development from concept to clinic.