ERVWE1 Antibody

ERVWE1, also known as Syncytin-1, is a protein encoded by the endogenous retrovirus group W member 1 (ERVWE1) gene. This protein plays a critical role in placenta development by promoting trophoblast fusion. Detection and analysis of ERVWE1 protein in human tissues and cell lines require high-specificity antibodies. In this article, we present a detailed technical overview of the ERVWE1 antibody, its applications, and its importance in placental biology, neurological research, and cell fusion studies.

What is ERVWE1 (Syncytin-1) ?

The ERVWE1 gene is an endogenous retroviral element that encodes the Syncytin-1 glycoprotein. This glycoprotein is essential for cytotrophoblast cell fusion, which is a critical event in the formation of the syncytiotrophoblast layer of the placenta. Without functional Syncytin-1, placenta formation and fetal development would be compromised.

Research has also shown that ERVWE1 expression is detected in the brain, and may be associated with neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis and schizophrenia.

Key Features of ERVWE1 Antibody

• Host Species : Rabbit
• Clonality : Polyclonal
• Application : Western Blot (WB), Immunohistochemistry (IHC), ELISA
• Species Reactivity : Human, Mouse
• Observed Band Size : 70-73 kDa
• Storage Buffer : Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) with 0.02% sodium azide
• Storage Condition : -20°C long-term storage

Using an ERVWE1 antibody helps researchers to detect Syncytin-1 expression across different tissues, especially when studying placental dysfunction and neurological disorders.

Technical Applications of ERVWE1 Antibodies

1. Western Blotting (WB)

Western blot analysis using ERVWE1 antibodies is the most common method to detect the presence of Syncytin-1 protein. After lysing the cells, proteins are separated by SDS-PAGE and transferred to a membrane. ERVWE1 antibody is used to visualize a band corresponding to ~70-73 kDa.

• Important for validating protein expression in placental tissues and cell lines.
• Standard controls include GAPDH or β-actin loading controls.

2. Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Immunohistochemical staining allows for the localization of ERVWE1 protein in tissue sections.

• Placental tissues show strong Syncytin-1 staining at the syncytiotrophoblast layer.
• IHC on brain tissues can reveal abnormal expression linked to neurological disorders.

3. ELISA

Quantitative detection of ERVWE1 protein in biological samples such as serum or tissue lysates.

• Useful for clinical research and disease biomarker studies.

Why Study ERVWE1 ?

• Placental Research : Syncytin-1 is vital for normal pregnancy and fetal development.
• Cancer Studies : Altered expression of ERVWE1 is reported in breast cancer and endometrial carcinoma.
• Neurology : Syncytin-1 expression in the brain suggests a role in inflammatory demyelination processes.

• Virology : Since ERVWE1 originated from an ancient retrovirus, it helps understand viral-host coevolution.

Best Practices for ERVWE1 Antibody Use

• Blocking : Always block non-specific binding with 5% BSA or milk during WB or IHC.
• Dilution : Start with recommended dilutions (e.g., 1:500 for WB, 1:200 for IHC) and optimize.

• Validation : Include both positive (placenta tissue) and negative controls (non-placental tissues) for all assays.

Challenges in ERVWE1 Research

• Cross-reactivity: Some antibodies may cross-react with other envelope proteins from retroviral families.
• Glycosylation: ERVWE1 protein is heavily glycosylated, leading to slightly variable molecular weights on WB.
• Expression Variability: Expression depends on tissue type and pathological conditions.

Recommended ERVWE1 Antibodies for Research

ERVWE1 antibodies are essential tools for studying placental development, retroviral biology, and neurological diseases. Reliable detection of Syncytin-1 by Western blot, immunohistochemistry, or ELISA provides critical insights into cell fusion events and disease mechanisms.

When choosing an antibody, prioritize validation data, species reactivity, and application compatibility to ensure successful and reproducible results.