ZIP8 Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody for WB, IF/ICC, ELISA - Q9C0K1

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: Metal cation symporter ZIP8 Function and Localization

• ZIP8 (SLC39A8) is an electroneutral divalent metal cation:bicarbonate symporter that mediates the cellular uptake of zinc and manganese, essential metals for development, tissue homeostasis, and immunity. Related references: PMID:12504855, PMID:22898811, PMID:23403290
• Beyond zinc and manganese, ZIP8 transports selenium (as selenite), cadmium, and possibly iron and cobalt, contributing to micronutrient homeostasis and heavy-metal toxicity. Related references: PMID:27166256, PMID:31699897, PMID:27466201, PMID:22898811
• Through zinc influx, ZIP8 indirectly regulates metal-dependent transcription factor MTF1 and influences the expression of metalloproteases involved in cartilage catabolism and heart development, as well as proteins that control cell morphology and cytoskeleton organization. Related references: PMID:29337306, PMID:29927450
• The protein localizes to the plasma membrane (apical and basolateral), lysosome membrane, and intracellular compartments, enabling distinct spatial control of metal ion flux.
• ZIP8 is ubiquitously expressed, with highest levels in the pancreas, and is also found in macrophages and blood-brain barrier endothelial cells, where it fulfills tissue-specific metal transport roles. Related references: PMID:12504855, PMID:22898811, PMID:28056086, PMID:31699897
• ZIP8 plays a critical role in innate immunity by modulating zinc uptake in monocytes and macrophages, which regulates inflammatory gene expression and protects cells from injury during inflammation. Related references: PMID:23403290, PMID:28056086, PMID:18390834
• It participates in manganese reclamation from bile in hepatocytes, reabsorption in kidney proximal tubules, and transport across the blood-brain barrier, supporting systemic manganese-dependent enzymatic activity and mitochondrial function. Related references: PMID:28481222, PMID:26637978, PMID:31699897, PMID:29453449
• ZIP8 is a glycoprotein with a signal peptide; alternative splicing may generate multiple isoforms, and post-translational modifications likely regulate its trafficking and function.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• For Western blotting, the expected molecular weight of ZIP8 is approximately 50 kDa (predicted ~49.6 kDa). Validate using appropriate positive controls (e.g., human or mouse tissue lysates) and consider the protein's ubiquitous but variable expression.
• In immunofluorescence/immunocytochemistry (IF/ICC), anticipate plasma membrane and potentially lysosomal staining. Permeabilization may be required to detect intracellular pools. Co-localization with organelle markers is recommended to confirm localization.
• For ELISA applications, the recombinant immunogen (aa 180–300) can serve as a positive control. Optimize coating and detection conditions, and consider using a validated ZIP8 standard for quantitative assays.
• As a polyclonal antibody, batch-to-batch consistency may vary; we recommend pilot testing each lot and using appropriate negative controls (e.g., knockout cell lines or blocking peptide) to confirm specificity.
• Cross-reactivity with mouse ZIP8 permits studies in mouse models; however, verify reactivity in your specific experimental system.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio provides a comprehensive portfolio of IVD raw materials and technical support, streamlining the development of diagnostic assays for metal homeostasis and immune function. Our catalogue includes validated antibody pairs, bulk polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, and ancillary reagents to accelerate your project from concept to clinic. Partner with us for reliable access to ZIP8 antibodies and customized sourcing solutions for rare targets.