| Field | Specification |
|---|---|
| Mfr No | |
| Alternative Names | Beta-hexosaminidase subunit alpha;3.2.1.52;Beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase subunit alpha;Hexosaminidase subunit A;N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase subunit alpha;HEXA; |
| Cellular Localization | |
| Clonality | |
| Concentration | |
| Host | |
| Immunogen | A synthetic peptide corresponding to a sequence at the C-terminus of human HEXA, different from the related mouse sequence by three amino acids, and from the related rat sequences by four amino acids. |
| Isotype | |
| Molecular Weight | |
| Product Type | |
| Reactivity | |
| Reconstitution | |
| Target | |
| UniProt # |
Overview
Anti-HEXA Antibody Picoband® is an antibody targeting HEXA. Common applications include WB, IHC, Flow Cytometry, ELISA. Key specifications include host: Rabbit; clonality: Polyclonal; isotype: Rabbit IgG; reactivity: Human; observed MW: 57 kDa; calculated MW: 60703 MW.
Boster Bio Anti-HEXA Antibody catalog # PA1787-2. Tested in WB applications. This antibody reacts with Human. 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: HEXA — Beta-hexosaminidase subunit alpha
- Antibody format: Host: Rabbit; Clonality: Polyclonal; Isotype: Rabbit IgG
- Species reactivity: Human
- Molecular weight guidance: Observed: 57 kDa; Calculated: 60703 MW
Specificity note: No cross reactivity with other proteins.
Biological background
Protein function (datasheet): Responsible for the degradation of GM2 gangliosides, and a variety of other molecules containing terminal N-acetyl hexosamines, in the brain and other tissues. The form B is active against certain oligosaccharides. The form S has no measurable activity.
Scientific background (datasheet): HEXA (hexosaminidase A (alpha polypeptide)) is an enzyme that in humans is encoded by the HEXA gene. Hexosaminidase A and the cofactor GM2 activator protein catalyze the degradation of the GM2 gangliosides and other molecules containing terminal N-acetyl hexosamines The HEXA gene encodes the alpha subunit of hexosaminidase A, a lysosomal enzyme involved in the breakdown of gangliosides. The HEXA gene is mapped on 15q23. Even though the alpha and beta subunits of hexosaminidase A can both cleave GalNAc residues, only the alpha subunit is able to hydrolyze GM2 gangliosides. The alpha subunit contains a key residue, Arg-424, which is essential for binding the N-acetyl-neuramanic residue of GM2 gangliosides. Chimeric constructs were expressed in HeLa cells and selected constructs were produced in the baculovirus expression system to determine their ability to degrade GM2 ganglioside in the presence of GM2 activator protein. Their results allowed them to define 2 noncontiguous sequences in the alpha subunit (amino acids 1-191 and 403-529) which, when substituted into analogous positions in the beta subunit, conferred activity against the sulfated substrate.
Cellular localization (datasheet): Lysosome.
Tissue details (datasheet): Expressed in various epithelial tissues. Abundantly expressed in liver and kidney, and to a lesser extent in lung. The tissue distribution of isoforms 1 and 1B is distinct. .
Sequence similarities (datasheet): Belongs to the glycosyl hydrolase 20 family.
Research relevance and current trends
- Commonly studied in contexts related to Neurodegenerative Disease,Neurogenesis,Neurology Process,Neuroscience,Organelles,Subcellular Markers,Tags & Cell Markers.
- 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.
