L1CAM Antibody / NCAM-L1 / CD171

Overview

L1CAM Antibody / NCAM-L1 / CD171 is a research-use antibody directed against L1CAM. It is supplied for use in common immunoassay contexts such as IHC-P (RUO).

Key elements and design rationale

• Target: L1CAM.
• Description (provided): L1, also known as L1CAM, is a transmembrane protein member of the L1 protein family, encoded by the L1CAM gene.
• Antibody type: Rabbit, Polyclonal (rabbit origin), Rabbit IgG.
• Format: Antigen affinity purified; Antigen affinity purified.
• Reported/predicted localization: Cytoplasmic, cell membrane.
• Species reactivity: tested: Human, Mouse, Rat.
• Immunogen (if provided): Amino acids NMVITWKPLRWMDWNAPQVQYRVQWRPQGTRGPW were used as the immunogen for the L1CAM 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

L1, also known as L1CAM, is a transmembrane protein member of the L1 protein family, encoded by the L1CAM gene. The protein encoded by this gene is an axonal glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin supergene family. The ectodomain, consisting of several immunoglobulin-like domains and fibronectin-like repeats (type III), is linked via a single transmembrane sequence to a conserved cytoplasmic domain. This cell adhesion molecule plays an important role in nervous system development, including neuronal migration and differentiation. Mutations in the gene cause X-linked neurological syndromes known as CRASH (corpus callosum hypoplasia, retardation, aphasia, spastic paraplegia and hydrocephalus). Alternative splicing of this gene results in multiple transcript variants, some of which include an alternate exon that is considered to be specific to neurons.

For curated annotations (gene/protein naming, domains, isoforms, and pathway links) for L1CAM, consult primary databases such as UniProt, NCBI Gene, and Ensembl.

Research relevance and current trends

• Context-dependent expression studies: researchers often examine L1CAM 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

• Immunohistochemistry for spatial mapping of target expression across tissues and cell types.

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.