Antibody identification with Human NaV1.7

September 10, 2024

As an ion channel protein, Human NaV1.7 involves the expression and purification of this protein for various research and potential therapeutic purposes. This protein could be used as an antigen to immunize animals (e.g., mice or rabbits) for antibody generation, especially therapeutic antibodies designed to target Nav1.7. The purified Nav1.7 protein is also used as an immunogen to initiate an immune response in animals. 

With 10+ years experience of membrane protein, we've achieved a significant milestone in the study of Nav1.7, a crucial voltage-gated sodium channel involved in pain signaling. Our expertises has successfully purified and stabilized the full-length, native Nav1.7 protein, allowing more precise drug development and understanding of the potential for targeted therapies. 

Our team's expertise in handling challenging membrane proteins has resulted in a non-aggregated, homogeneous sample of Nav1.7 that maintains its functional integrity and native conformation. This preservation of the protein's natural state is essential for accurate drug screening and development. To validate our purification method, we employed a sophisticated fluorescence polarization assay using Cy5-ProTx-II, a fluorescently labeled Nav1.7 blocker. The specific binding observed between Cy5-ProTx-II and our purified Nav1.7 protein, along with the loss of binding in denatured samples, confirms the success of our approach. 

ProTx-II saturation binding assay. The polarization values of 400nM Cy5-ProTx-II were measured after incubation for 90min at RT in presence of a range of concentrations from 0 to 200nM of native Nav1.7 (in blue) or denatured Nav1.7 (in orange). Nav1.7 was denatured by heating the purified protein at 98°C for 15min. Lower concentrations of protein and ligand could not be explored due to the limited sensitivity of the measurement, preventing the determination of kinetic constants such as the Kd.

The applications of our purified Nav1.7 protein in drug discovery are extensive. Researchers can now conduct more reliable screening of small molecule inhibitors and modulators against a functionally intact Nav1.7 protein. Additionally, this purified protein serves as an excellent antigen for producing antibodies, including potential therapeutic antibodies targeting Nav1.7. These capabilities significantly accelerate the development of novel pain therapies and offer new possibilities for structure-based drug design.

Our success with Nav1.7 demonstrates our commitment to advancing scientific research and drug discovery in the field of pain management. By providing this valuable tool to researchers studying pain mechanisms, we're contributing to the acceleration of new therapies that could improve the lives of millions suffering from chronic pain conditions.

As we continue to push the boundaries of membrane protein research, we remain dedicated to supporting the scientific community in their quest for better understanding and treatment of pain. Our Nav1.7 case study is just one example of our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of protein science. This breakthrough not only showcases our technical capabilities but also highlights the potential for significant advancements in pain research and drug development.

The impact of this work extends beyond the immediate scientific community. By enabling more accurate and efficient research into Nav1.7, we're potentially paving the way for the development of more effective pain medications with fewer side effects. This could have far-reaching implications for patients suffering from various pain disorders, offering hope for improved quality of life and pain management strategies.

Our purified Nav1.7 protein could be the key to advancing your drug development projects. Contact us today to learn how our expertise can support your work.

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