RBP4 Antibody / Retinol Binding Protein 4

Overview

Retinol (Vitamin A) is transported in the blood bound to its carrier protein, retinol-binding protein (RBP), also designated plasma retinol-binding protein (PRBP) or RBP4. A member of the lipocalin family, RBP conveys retinol from stores in the liver to peripheral tissues. In plasma, RBP binds transthyretin (TTR, formerly called prealbumin) to prevent glomerular filtration of low molecular weight RBP in the kidneys. The stability of this complex holds diagnostic importance because the molar ratio of RBP:TTR provides an indirect way to indicate marginal Vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A deficiency blocks the secretion of RBP, resulting in defective delivery and supply to epidermal cells. Originally identified solely as a transporter protein, recent studies correlating increased levels of RBP expression in adipose tissue with Insulin resistance have generated research into the possible roles the protein may play in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and obesity.

This anti-RBP4 antibody is supplied as Purified (Mouse, Monoclonal (mouse origin), clone RBP4/4042, Mouse IgG2b, kappa, Unconjugated) and is designed to support common target-detection workflows after the on-page specifications.

Key elements and design rationale

• Target: RBP4
• Format: Purified
• Localization: Cytoplasmic
• Species reactivity: Human
• Applications (listed): IHC-P
• Conjugate: Unconjugated
• Clone and antibody class: Monoclonal (mouse origin), clone RBP4/4042, Mouse IgG2b, kappa

Because antibody performance can depend on epitope context, sample preparation, and biological state, interpret signals using appropriate controls and orthogonal evidence when possible.

Biological background

RBP4 is referenced in public gene/protein resources (e.g., UniProt and NCBI Gene), which provide curated names/synonyms, protein features, and pathway context. When designing assays, consider potential isoforms, post-translational modifications, and cell-type specific expression that may influence observed signal.

Research relevance and current trends

• Profiling RBP4 expression across model systems, perturbations, and time points to support mechanistic hypotheses.
• Combining antibody-based detection with multi-omics or imaging readouts to link RBP4 signal with phenotype.
• Using well-matched controls (isotype controls, genetic perturbations, or independent reagents) to strengthen interpretation of target-associated signal.

Common research applications

• IHC-P

Use the listed applications as a starting point and tailor experimental design to your sample type and readout requirements.

Notes for experimental interpretation

• Specificity considerations: closely related family members, isoforms, or PTMs can affect apparent specificity; confirm with independent approaches when critical.
• Controls: include negative controls and, when feasible, genetic or pharmacologic perturbations to support target attribution in your system.
• Species and sample context: differences in sequence, expression, fixation, or extraction conditions can change signal behavior across models.

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.