What Is LCN8? Biological Background

LCN8 (Lipocalin-8) is a secreted protein belonging to the lipocalin superfamily, a structurally conserved family of small extracellular proteins characterized by an eight-stranded antiparallel beta-barrel fold that forms a binding pocket for small hydrophobic ligands such as lipids, steroids, and retinoids.

In humans, LCN8 is predominantly expressed in the epididymis, an organ critical for post-testicular sperm maturation. The protein is thought to play a role in the transport and/or sequestration of small hydrophobic molecules within the epididymal lumen, thereby contributing to the biochemical environment required for sperm maturation and male fertility. LCN8 is closely related to other epididymis-enriched lipocalins such as LCN5 and LCN9, and shares the conserved structural motifs common to this superfamily.

Like other lipocalins, LCN8 may also participate in local immune modulation and cellular signaling through interactions with cell-surface receptors, though the full scope of its biological functions in human physiology remains an active area of investigation.

Biochemical Properties of Recombinant Human LCN8 Protein

Recombinant Human LCN8 Protein is produced using recombinant DNA technology, enabling the generation of a defined, reproducible protein suitable for in vitro research applications. Recombinant production circumvents the challenges associated with isolating native LCN8 from human epididymal tissue, which is limited in availability and subject to variability.

As a lipocalin superfamily member, the recombinant protein is expected to adopt the canonical beta-barrel tertiary structure. This fold provides stability and supports ligand-binding functionality relevant to assay development and structural studies. Researchers should consult the product datasheet (absea#PP-25872) for confirmed specifications including molecular weight, purity grade, formulation buffer, recommended storage conditions, and lot-specific quality control data such as SDS-PAGE and activity assay results.

Typical research-grade recombinant proteins are supplied lyophilized or in liquid formulation and should be reconstituted and stored according to the manufacturer's instructions to preserve biological activity.

Research Applications

Recombinant Human LCN8 Protein (rp369066) is suitable for a range of in vitro research applications leveraging its identity as a lipocalin-family protein expressed in the male reproductive tract. Key application areas include:

• Ligand-binding studies: Investigation of small hydrophobic molecule interactions using techniques such as fluorescence displacement assays or surface plasmon resonance (SPR).
• Antibody development and validation: Use as an antigen for generating or validating anti-LCN8 antibodies for immunoassay, Western blot, or immunohistochemistry applications.
• Protein–protein interaction studies: Exploration of potential binding partners and receptor interactions relevant to epididymal signaling pathways.
• Structural biology: Use in crystallography or cryo-EM studies to resolve the three-dimensional structure of human LCN8.
• Functional assays: Development of cell-based or biochemical assays to characterize LCN8 activity in the context of sperm maturation or lipid transport.
• Proteomics and biomarker research: Inclusion as a reference standard or spike-in protein for mass spectrometry-based proteomics workflows targeting the epididymal proteome or male fertility biomarkers.

For all applications, researchers should perform application-specific optimization and consult the product datasheet for validated conditions.

Handling, Storage, and Quality Considerations

To maintain the integrity and activity of Recombinant Human LCN8 Protein, users should observe the following general best practices, supplemented by any specific instructions provided in the product datasheet (absea#PP-25872):

• Storage: Recombinant proteins are typically stored at −20 °C or −80 °C. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to protein aggregation and loss of activity. Aliquot upon first use.
• Reconstitution: If supplied lyophilized, reconstitute with the recommended volume of sterile, high-quality water or the specified buffer. Allow the lyophilized cake to dissolve gently; do not vortex vigorously.
• Carrier protein: For low-concentration preparations, a carrier protein (e.g., BSA) may be recommended to prevent adsorption to tube surfaces and to stabilize the protein.
• Quality control: Each lot should be accompanied by a certificate of analysis (CoA) confirming purity (typically assessed by SDS-PAGE and/or HPLC), identity (e.g., by mass spectrometry or N-terminal sequencing), and, where applicable, biological activity data.
• Sterility and endotoxin: For cell-based assays, verify endotoxin levels meet the requirements of your experimental system.

Always follow your institution's safety guidelines when handling recombinant proteins.

Ordering Information

Recombinant Human LCN8 Protein is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU rp369066. This product is intended for research use only and is not suitable for diagnostic or therapeutic applications in humans or animals.

For quantity pricing, custom formulations, or bulk orders, please contact Aladdin Scientific's technical sales team. Current pricing, available pack sizes, and stock status can be confirmed via the Aladdin Scientific website or by contacting customer service directly.

When ordering, please reference the internal supplier code absea#PP-25872 for cross-referencing with the manufacturer's documentation.