Anti-Connexin 43 Rabbit PolymAb® for WB, IF/ICC, IF-P, ELISA - P17302

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: Connexin 43 (GJA1) Function and Localization

• Gap junction alpha-1 protein, also known as Connexin-43 (Cx43), is encoded by the GJA1 gene. It is the structural component of gap junctions, forming intercellular channels that permit the direct exchange of ions, metabolites, and small signaling molecules between adjacent cells.
• Functional channels are homotypic and heterotypic hexameric connexons, gated by transjunctional voltage. Cx43 contributes to diverse physiological processes including potassium recycling in the cochlea (hearing), regulation of bladder functional capacity via sensitization to cholinergic stimuli, and proper ventricular myocardial conduction and heart morphogenesis.
• A negative regulator of cell growth through modulation of NOV expression and localization.
• Critical mediator of intercellular innate immune signaling: upon viral infection, Cx43 channels translocate second messengers 2',3'-cGAMP and 2',5'-oligoadenylates (2-5A) from infected cells to macrophages and uninfected neighbors, thereby amplifying the antiviral immune response. Related references: PMID:24077100 PMID:31992625 PMID:40010341
• Subcellularly localized predominantly at the cell membrane and gap junction plaques, with additional presence in the endoplasmic reticulum.
• Tissue expression: abundant in intercalated disks of cardiac muscle, fetal cochlea, and epidermal keratinocytes.
• Post-translational modifications include phosphorylation, acetylation, S-nitrosylation, and ubiquitination; these modify channel assembly, gating, and turnover. Associated with diseases such as oculodentodigital dysplasia, palmoplantar keratoderma, and congenital cataracts.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen is a synthetic peptide spanning amino acids 300–382 within the C‑terminal tail of human Cx43. This region is cytoplasmic and contains multiple regulatory phosphorylation sites; thus the antibody may recognize multiple phospho‑isoforms or total Cx43 depending on the state of the target protein.
• For Western blot (WB), a major band around 43 kDa is expected; however, Cx43 is known to run as multiple bands due to phosphorylation, which can be resolved by careful sample preparation and gel electrophoresis.
• In immunofluorescence (IF/ICC, IF-P), punctate membrane staining typical of gap junction plaques should be observed. Permeabilization and fixation conditions may need optimization for the specific cell or tissue type.
• For ELISA applications, consider using a recombinant Cx43 protein or a peptide encompassing the immunogen sequence as a positive control to validate antibody binding.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio provides comprehensive one‑stop sourcing for IVD raw materials, enabling diagnostic manufacturers and research laboratories to obtain validated antibodies, optimized monoclonal and polyclonal preparations, and ancillary reagents in bulk. With deep expertise in gap junction and innate immunity targets, we facilitate procurement of reagents like this anti‑Cx43 antibody to support your assay development and biomarker research from concept through clinical application.