Ran Antibody

Overview

Ran Antibody is a research-use antibody directed against RAN. It is supplied for use in common immunoassay contexts such as WB, ICC/IF, FACS (RUO).

Key elements and design rationale

• Target: RAN.
• Description (provided): RAN (ras-related nuclear protein) is a small GTP binding protein belonging to the RAS superfamily that is essential for the translocation of RNA and proteins through the nuclear pore complex.
• Antibody type: Mouse, clone 5D5, Mouse IgG2b.
• Format: Antigen affinity purified; Affinity purified.
• Species reactivity: tested: Human, Mouse, Rat.
• Immunogen (if provided): A human recombinant protein (amino acids A2-L216) was used as the immunogen for the Ran 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

RAN (ras-related nuclear protein) is a small GTP binding protein belonging to the RAS superfamily that is essential for the translocation of RNA and proteins through the nuclear pore complex. The RAN protein is also involved in control of DNA synthesis and cell cycle progression. Nuclear localization of RAN requires the presence of regulator of chromosome condensation 1 (RCC1). Mutations in RAN disrupt DNA synthesis. Because of its many functions, it is likely that RAN interacts with several other proteins. RAN regulates formation and organization of the microtubule network independently of its role in the nucleus-cytosol exchange of macromolecules. RAN could be a key signaling molecule regulating microtubule polymerization during mitosis. RCC1 generates a high local concentration of RAN-GTP around chromatin which, in turn, induces the local nucleation of microtubules. RAN is an androgen receptor (AR) coactivator that binds differentially with different lengths of polyglutamine within the androgen receptor. Polyglutamine repeat expansion in the AR is linked to Kennedy's disease (X-linked spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy). RAN coactivation of the AR diminishes with polyglutamine expansion within the AR, and this weak coactivation may lead to partial androgen insensitivity during the development of Kennedy's disease.

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

Research relevance and current trends

• Context-dependent expression studies: researchers often examine RAN 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.
• Immunocytochemistry for cellular localization in cultured cells.
• FACS: commonly used to detect or compare RAN across experimental conditions (conceptual guidance only).

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.