Anti-PENK Polyclonal Antibody for WB, IF-P, IHC-P, ELISA - P01210

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: Proenkephalin-A Function and Localization

• Proenkephalin-A (PENK) is a precursor protein that is proteolytically processed to generate several active opioid peptides, including Met-enkephalin and Leu-enkephalin, which are critical for modulating pain perception and stress responses.
• The encoded enkephalins act as endogenous ligands for opioid receptors, mimicking the effects of opiate drugs and playing key roles in analgesia, reward, and stress regulation.
• One of its cleavage products, Met-enkephalin-Arg-Phe, acts as a strong agonist of the Mu-type opioid receptor (OPRM1) in the nucleus accumbens, leading to long-term synaptic depression of glutamate release.
• PENK-derived peptides also exert non-opioid effects by binding to the MRGPRX1 receptor, inducing histamine-independent itch and nociceptive sensations in sensory neurons. Related references: PMID:11850634 PMID:28223516 PMID:21593341
• Subcellularly, proenkephalin-A is localized in the lumen of secretory vesicles, such as chromaffin granules, and is secreted upon stimulation, consistent with its role as a neuropeptide.
• The protein contains structural features including a signal peptide, multiple cleavage sites at paired basic residues, and a disulfide bond, which are essential for its processing and secretion.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen covers amino acids 25–267 of human proenkephalin-A, encompassing the majority of the precursor protein. This polyclonal antibody may recognize both the full-length precursor and its processed fragments.
• For Western blot (WB), the predicted molecular weight of the full-length precursor is 31 kDa; however, due to post-translational processing, multiple bands corresponding to enkephalin-containing peptides may be observed. Optimization of gel percentage and loading controls is recommended.
• In immunohistochemistry (IHC-P) and immunofluorescence (IF-P), appropriate fixation (e.g., 4% PFA) and antigen retrieval methods should be validated for the target tissue, as neuropeptide antigens can be sensitive to over-fixation.
• Cross-reactivity with mouse and rat allows translational studies in these species, but species-specific validation of antibody specificity via knockout or blocking peptide controls is advised.
• For ELISA, pairing with a matched detection antibody may be necessary. Titration experiments should determine the optimal coating and detection antibody concentrations.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio partners with diagnostic manufacturers and research institutes to provide a comprehensive range of IVD raw materials, including validated polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies like this anti-PENK antibody. Whether you require bulk ancillary reagents, customized antibody pairs, or assistance sourcing rare targets for neuroscience and pain research, our one-stop procurement platform supports your workflow from concept to clinic.