NKG2D Antibody

Overview

NKG2D Antibody is a research-use antibody directed against NKG2D. It is supplied for use in common immunoassay contexts such as WB (RUO).

Key elements and design rationale

• Target: NKG2D.
• Description (provided): NKG2D is encoded by KLRK1 gene which is located in the NK-gene complex (NKC) situated on and chromosome 12 in humans.
• Antibody type: Rabbit, Polyclonal (rabbit origin), Rabbit IgG.
• Format: Antigen affinity purified; Antigen affinity purified.
• Species reactivity: tested: Mouse, Rat; predicted: Human.
• Immunogen (if provided): Amino acids YQFFDESKNWYESQASCMSQNASLLKVYSKEDQDLLKLVKSYH from the human protein were used as the immunogen for the NKG2D 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

NKG2D is encoded by KLRK1 gene which is located in the NK-gene complex (NKC) situated on and chromosome 12 in humans. Natural killer (NK) cells are lymphocytes that can mediate lysis of certain tumor cells and virus-infected cells without previous activation. They can also regulate specific humoral and cell-mediated immunity. NK cells preferentially express several calcium-dependent (C-type) lectins, which have been implicated in the regulation of NK cell function. The NKG2 gene family is located within the NK complex, a region that contains several C-type lectin genes preferentially expressed in NK cells. This gene encodes a member of the NKG2 family. The encoded transmembrane protein is characterized by a type II membrane orientation (has an extracellular C terminus) and the presence of a C-type lectin domain. It binds to a diverse family of ligands that include MHC class I chain-related A and B proteins and UL-16 binding proteins, where ligand-receptor interactions can result in the activation of NK and T cells. The surface expression of these ligands is important for the recognition of stressed cells by the immune system, and thus this protein and its ligands are therapeutic targets for the treatment of immune diseases and cancers. Read-through transcription exists between this gene and the upstream KLRC4 (killer cell lectin-like receptor subfamily C, member 4) family member in the same cluster.

For curated annotations (gene/protein naming, domains, isoforms, and pathway links) for NKG2D, consult primary databases such as UniProt, NCBI Gene, and Ensembl.

Research relevance and current trends

• Context-dependent expression studies: researchers often examine NKG2D 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.

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.