Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: ITGAE Function and Localization

• Integrin alpha-E (ITGAE), also known as CD103, HML-1 antigen, or mucosal lymphocyte 1 antigen, is a transmembrane integrin alpha chain that pairs with integrin beta-7 (ITGB7) to form the alpha-E/beta-7 heterodimer. This receptor specifically binds E-cadherin, facilitating T-lymphocyte adhesion to epithelial cells.
• ITGAE belongs to the integrin alpha chain family, characterized by extracellular ligand-binding I-domains and intracellular signaling motifs. It plays a critical role in mucosal immunity by mediating the retention and activation of intraepithelial lymphocytes.
• The protein is a single-pass type I membrane protein with a large extracellular domain containing several structural repeats and a short cytoplasmic tail. It is expressed predominantly on intra-epithelial T-lymphocytes located between mucosal epithelial cells.
• ITGAE undergoes post-translational modifications including N-linked glycosylation and disulfide bond formation, essential for proper folding and heterodimer assembly. It also contains calcium-binding sites within its extracellular regions, which are crucial for ligand binding.
• The ITGAE/ITGB7 integrin-mediated adhesion to E-cadherin is vital for immune surveillance and barrier function in epithelial tissues, including those of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and reproductive tracts. This interaction facilitates lymphocyte-epithelial crosstalk and has been implicated in inflammatory diseases and epithelial malignancies.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen corresponds to the N-terminal extracellular domain (aa 19-200), which is relatively conserved across species; thus, this antibody may detect human, mouse, and rat ITGAE in Western blot and ELISA applications.
• For Western blot, a band of approximately 130 kDa is expected in cell or tissue lysates expressing CD103, such as intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes or certain T-cell lines. Consider using reducing conditions to resolve the glycoprotein.
• In ELISA, the antibody can be used for detection of recombinant or native ITGAE; pair with an appropriate secondary antibody and control for non-specific binding by including a negative control well.
• Since ITGAE is expressed specifically on intra-epithelial T-cells, verify expression in your sample system using a positive control like human gut mucosa or activated lymphocytes. For cross-reactivity in mouse/rat tissues, validate using lysates from intestinal epithelium.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio provides diagnostic manufacturers and research institutes with a comprehensive sourcing platform for high-quality IVD raw materials, including validated antibodies and ancillary reagents. Our anti-ITGAE (CD103) antibody supports research into mucosal immunity and lymphocyte-epithelial interactions. Beyond individual reagents, we offer tailored procurement solutions for antibody pairs, bulk monoclonal/polyclonal antibodies, and rare target raw materials to accelerate your assay development from concept to clinic.