MDA5 Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody for WB, IHC-P, IF/ICC, ELISA - Q9BYX4

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: MDA5 (IFIH1) Function and Localization

• Encodes interferon-induced helicase C domain-containing protein 1 (IFIH1), also known as melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), RIG-I-like receptor 2 (RLR-2), Helicard, and CADM-140 autoantigen. It belongs to the RIG-I-like receptor family of cytoplasmic pattern recognition receptors.
• Functions as a key innate immune sensor that detects viral RNA in the cytoplasm, triggering antiviral responses including type I interferon and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Related references: PMID:28594402 PMID:32169843 PMID:33727702
• Specifically recognizes mRNA lacking 2'-O-methylation at the 5' cap and long double-stranded RNA (>1 kb) as non-self signatures of viral infection. Related references: PMID:22160685
• Upon ligand binding, localizes to mitochondria and associates with MAVS/IPS1, leading to activation of TBK1 and IKBKE kinases, phosphorylation of IRF3 and IRF7, and transcriptional induction of interferons (IFN-α and IFN-β).
• Detects a broad range of viruses, including Picornaviridae (e.g., encephalomyocarditis virus, rhinovirus), coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), flaviviruses (dengue, West Nile), reovirus, and vaccinia virus. Related references: PMID:28606988 PMID:33440148 PMID:33514628
• Amplifies innate immune signaling by recognizing RNA metabolites generated by the antiviral endoribonuclease RNase L, enhancing host defense.
• Widely expressed at low levels, with relatively higher expression in placenta, pancreas, and spleen, and barely detectable in brain, testis, and lung.
• Found in the cytoplasm and nucleus, and associates with mitochondria upon activation. Structurally contains two N-terminal CARD domains and a C-terminal helicase domain with ATP-binding and RNA-binding activities. Genetic variations in IFIH1 are linked to autoimmune disorders such as Aicardi-Goutières syndrome and type 1 diabetes.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen covers the N-terminal 205 amino acids, which encompass the two CARD domains. This design may recognize both full-length IFIH1 (predicted ~117 kDa) and potential cleavage products or isoforms (~25 kDa) observed in certain contexts.
• In western blotting, both 25 kDa and 117 kDa bands have been reported; validate the expression pattern in your relevant cell or tissue lysates, and consider the use of positive controls (e.g., virus-infected or interferon-stimulated samples) for robust detection.
• For immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, antigen retrieval conditions may be necessary; pilot experiments with known positive tissues (e.g., placenta, pancreas) are recommended.
• As a polyclonal antibody, lot-to-lot variability can occur; titrate the antibody for each new application and include appropriate controls to ensure specificity.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio supports diagnostic manufacturers and research laboratories with comprehensive one-stop access to IVD raw materials, including validated antibody pairs, optimized monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, bulk ancillary reagents, and rare target sourcing for intricate pathways like innate antiviral immunity. Whether you are developing ELISA kits, point-of-care assays, or investigating MDA5 signaling in autoimmune or infectious diseases, our integrated procurement and technical consultation services help streamline your transition from concept to clinic.