Anti-CACNA1A Antibody Picoband®

Overview

Anti-CACNA1A Antibody Picoband® is an antibody targeting CACNA1A. Common applications include WB, IHC, Flow Cytometry, ELISA. Key specifications include host: Rabbit; clonality: Polyclonal; isotype: Rabbit IgG; reactivity: Mouse,Rat; observed MW: 300 kDa; calculated MW: 282 kDa.

Boster Bio Anti-CACNA1A Antibody Picoband® catalog # A00647. Tested in WB, ELISA applications. This antibody reacts with Mouse, Rat. The brand Picoband indicates this is a premium antibody that guarantees superior quality, high affinity, and strong signals with minimal background in Western blot applications. Only our best-performing antibodies are designated as Picoband, ensuring unmatched performance.

Key elements and design rationale

• Target: CACNA1A — calcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha1 A
• Antibody format: Host: Rabbit; Clonality: Polyclonal; Isotype: Rabbit IgG
• Species reactivity: Mouse,Rat
• Molecular weight guidance: Observed: 300 kDa; Calculated: 282 kDa

Biological background

Scientific background (datasheet): Cav2.1, also called the P/Q voltage-dependent calcium channel, is a calcium channel found mainly in the brain. Voltage-dependent calcium channels mediate the entry of calcium ions into excitable cells, and are also involved in a variety of calcium-dependent processes, including muscle contraction, hormone or neurotransmitter release, and gene expression. Calcium channels are multisubunit complexes composed of alpha-1, beta, alpha-2/delta, and gamma subunits. The channel activity is directed by the pore-forming alpha-1 subunit, whereas, the others act as auxiliary subunits regulating this activity. The distinctive properties of the calcium channel types are related primarily to the expression of a variety of alpha-1 isoforms, alpha-1A, B, C, D, E, and S. This gene encodes the alpha-1A subunit, which is predominantly expressed in neuronal tissue. Mutations in this gene are associated with 2 neurologic disorders, familial hemiplegic migraine and episodic ataxia 2. This gene also exhibits polymorphic variation due to (CAG)n-repeats. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. In one set of transcript variants, the (CAG)n-repeats occur in the 3' UTR, and are not associated with any disease. But in another set of variants, an insertion extends the coding region to include the (CAG)n-repeats which encode a polyglutamine tract. Expansion of the (CAG)n-repeats from the normal 4-18 to 21-33 in the coding region is associated with spinocerebellar ataxia 6.

Research relevance and current trends

• Supports comparative expression analysis across conditions, genotypes, or treatments when paired with appropriate controls.
• Useful for confirming target presence and subcellular distribution using orthogonal readouts (e.g., microscopy vs. immunoblotting).

Common research applications

• Western blot (WB): Compare relative target abundance and apparent size/isoforms across samples; interpret bands in light of expected MW and potential PTMs.
• ELISA: Measure target abundance in compatible matrices using a standard-curve readout; ensure dilution linearity and appropriate controls.
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Assess tissue distribution and cell-type patterns; interpret staining with appropriate negative controls and antigen context.
• Flow cytometry: Quantify target-positive populations in single-cell suspensions; pair with viability and isotype/FMO controls conceptually.

Notes for experimental interpretation

• Consider isoforms, post-translational modifications, and processing that can shift apparent molecular weight or localization.
• Cross-reactivity (datasheet): No cross-reactivity with other proteins
• Use appropriate positive and negative controls (e.g., KO/KD, blocking peptide, or isotype controls) to support specificity interpretation.

As a polyclonal antibody, this reagent may recognize multiple epitopes on the target, which can improve detection robustness but may require careful specificity controls.

Customization & Add-ons: Can’t find the antibody you need—or require a custom format for your assay? We can help you source the best match or support custom antibody solutions for diverse research needs, including species and isotype selection, conjugations and labeling (e.g., HRP/AP, biotin, fluorophores), purification grade options (Protein A/G, affinity purified), formulation preferences (buffer selection, carrier-free, glycerol-free), custom concentrations and aliquoting, low-endotoxin options for cell-based work, and application-focused QC/validation support (project dependent). Click Talk to a Scientist to submit a request, email us at support@biohippo.com, or explore our Research Services for additional support—our team will follow up with feasibility details and next steps.