Cystatin C Antibody / Cystatin 3

Overview

Cystatin C Antibody / Cystatin 3 is a research-use antibody directed against CYSTATIN C. It is supplied for use in common immunoassay contexts such as WB, IHC-P, ELISA (RUO).

Key elements and design rationale

• Target: CYSTATIN C.
• Description (provided): Cystatin C or cystatin 3, a protein encoded by the CST3 gene, is mainly used as a biomarker of kidney function.
• Antibody type: Rabbit, Polyclonal (rabbit origin), Rabbit IgG.
• Format: Antigen affinity purified; Antigen affinity.
• Reported/predicted localization: Secreted, cytoplasmic.
• Species reactivity: tested: Human, Mouse.
• Immunogen (if provided): Human Cystatin C recombinant protein (amino acids K31-A146) was used as the immunogen for the Cystatin C antibody..

The information above helps you match the antibody format to your assay context, interpret species-dependent differences, and anticipate how epitope context (isoforms, PTMs, or conformational state) may influence signal.

Biological background

Cystatin C or cystatin 3, a protein encoded by the CST3 gene, is mainly used as a biomarker of kidney function. Recently, it has been studied for its role in predicting new-onset or deteriorating cardiovascular disease. It also seems to play a role in brain disorders involving amyloid, such as Alzheimer's disease. In humans, all cells with a nucleus (cell core containing the DNA) produce cystatin C as a chain of 120 amino acids. It is found in virtually all tissues and body fluids. It is a potent inhibitor of lysosomal proteinases (enzymes from a special subunit of the cell that break down proteins) and probably one of the most important extracellular inhibitors of cysteine proteases (it prevents the breakdown of proteins outside the cell by a specific type of protein degrading enzymes). Cystatin C belongs to the type 2 cystatin gene family.

For curated annotations (gene/protein naming, domains, isoforms, and pathway links) for CYSTATIN C, consult primary databases such as UniProt, NCBI Gene, and Ensembl.

Research relevance and current trends

• Context-dependent expression studies: researchers often examine CYSTATIN C abundance and localization across perturbations (genetic, pharmacologic, or environmental) to connect phenotype to molecular changes.
• Reagent reproducibility: there is growing emphasis on antibody specificity checks using orthogonal approaches (e.g., genetic perturbation or independent antibodies) and transparent reporting of clone/lot information.
• Multi-modal datasets: antibody-based readouts are increasingly combined with transcriptomics and imaging to relate protein-level measurements to cell-state transitions.

Common research applications

• Western blotting (immunoblot) for relative detection of target protein abundance and apparent molecular weight.
• Immunohistochemistry for spatial mapping of target expression across tissues and cell types.
• ELISA-based detection or quantification in research assays (format- and epitope-dependent).

When comparing conditions, interpret changes in signal in the context of sample composition, expected localization, and any known isoform complexity for the target.

Notes for experimental interpretation

• Isoforms and PTMs: alternative splicing or post-translational modifications can change epitope accessibility and apparent molecular weight; interpret bands/signals accordingly.
• Cross-reactivity and matrix effects: background binding can vary by sample type, species, and blocking/detection chemistries; include appropriate negative controls.
• Control concepts: where feasible, use genetic perturbation (KO/KD/overexpression), orthogonal assays, or independent antibodies to support specificity claims.

Antibody considerations: Polyclonal reagents may recognize multiple epitopes and can increase sensitivity but may show broader binding profiles, while monoclonal clones provide a single-epitope readout that can improve consistency across experiments. If a conjugate is listed, the antibody supports more direct detection workflows; otherwise, it is typically used with a compatible secondary antibody.

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.