Anti-RARα Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody for WB, IF/ICC, ELISA - P10276

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: RARα Function and Localization

• Retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα), encoded by the RARA gene (NR1B1), is a nuclear receptor that functions as a ligand-dependent transcription factor for retinoic acid. Related references: PMID:16417524, PMID:19850744, PMID:20215566

• RARα forms heterodimers with retinoid X receptors (RXR) and binds to retinoic acid response elements (RAREs) composed of tandem AGGTCA motifs, regulating gene expression in development, differentiation, and homeostasis. Related references: PMID:19398580, PMID:28167758, PMID:21152046, PMID:37478846

• In the absence of ligand, RXR/RAR heterodimers recruit corepressor complexes (e.g., HDACs) that induce chromatin condensation and transcriptional repression. Ligand binding triggers corepressor dissociation and coactivator recruitment, enabling transcriptional activation. Related references: PMID:16417524, PMID:19850744, PMID:20215566, PMID:37478846

• RARα plays an essential role in spermatogenesis by supporting early spermatocyte survival, and in concert with RARG, it is required for skeletal growth and growth plate function.

• Together with RXRA, RARα positively regulates microRNA-10a expression, inhibiting the GATA6/VCAM1 signaling pathway in vascular endothelial cells under pulsatile shear stress. Conversely, it can repress microRNA-10a via association with HDAC3/5/7, promoting inflammatory responses. Related references: PMID:28167758

• RARα is predominantly localized to the nucleus, with some cytoplasmic presence. It is expressed in monocytes.

• Key structural features include zinc-finger domains for DNA binding, and the protein is subject to phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and isopeptide bond formation. It is classified as a proto-oncogene due to its involvement in chromosomal rearrangements.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• For Western blotting, RARα has a predicted molecular weight of ~51 kDa; post-translational modifications may cause band shifts. Optimize loading controls and consider using nuclear extracts for enrichment.
• The immunogen covers the full-length human RARα protein (aa 1-457), so the antibody may recognize multiple isoforms or splice variants; verify in your specific model system.
• In immunofluorescence, expect nuclear staining; optimize permeabilization (e.g., 0.1% Triton X-100) and fixation protocols to preserve antigenicity.
• As a polyclonal antibody, batch-to-batch consistency should be validated for quantitative assays such as ELISA.
• Cross-reactivity with mouse and rat has been reported; include appropriate species-specific positive controls when using these models.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio provides diagnostic manufacturers and research institutions with a streamlined channel for high-quality IVD raw materials. For retinoic acid signaling and nuclear receptor studies, our portfolio includes validated antibody pairs, optimized polyclonal antibodies, and bulk ancillary reagents. Contact us for bulk orders or assistance with rare target sourcing to advance your assay development from concept to clinic.