MD2 Antibody: FAQs for Research Use

MD2 Antibody is a research reagent designed to detect MD2 (Lymphocyte Antigen 96), a co-receptor essential for TLR4-mediated lipopolysaccharide recognition and innate immune signaling.

Product SKU

Ab351004

Target Protein

MD2 (Myeloid Differentiation factor 2 / Lymphocyte Antigen 96)

Formulation

PBS (Phosphate-Buffered Saline) only

Supplier Reference

absea#OC-633

Primary Research Area

Innate immunity, TLR4/MD2 signaling, inflammation

Availability

Available through Aladdin Scientific

What Is MD2 and Why Is It a Research Target?

MD2, also known as Lymphocyte Antigen 96 (LY96) or Myeloid Differentiation factor 2, is a small secreted glycoprotein that forms a critical complex with Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) on the cell surface. This TLR4/MD2 complex is the primary pattern recognition receptor responsible for detecting lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a structural component of gram-negative bacterial outer membranes.

Upon LPS binding, the TLR4/MD2 complex initiates downstream signaling cascades involving MyD88 and TRIF adaptor proteins, ultimately activating NF-κB and interferon regulatory factors. This drives the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Because MD2 is indispensable for this activation, it is a focal point in sepsis, inflammatory disease, and innate immune research.

Researchers use MD2 antibodies to study receptor complex formation, LPS-stimulated cell activation, and to investigate potential therapeutic targets in conditions such as septic shock and chronic inflammatory diseases.

What Applications Is MD2 Antibody (Ab351004) Suitable For?

MD2 Antibody (Ab351004) is intended for use as a research-grade reagent in standard immunological and cell biology assays. Typical applications for anti-MD2 antibodies in the research community include:

• Western Blotting (WB): Detection of MD2 protein in cell or tissue lysates to confirm expression levels under various stimulation conditions.
• Immunofluorescence (IF) / Immunocytochemistry (ICC): Visualization of MD2 localization on the cell surface or within cellular compartments.
• Immunoprecipitation (IP): Isolation of the TLR4/MD2 receptor complex for downstream co-immunoprecipitation studies.
• Flow Cytometry (FC): Quantification of surface MD2 expression on immune cell populations such as macrophages and dendritic cells.
• ELISA: Capture or detection of MD2 protein in solution-based formats.

Note: Users should validate the antibody for each specific application and cell/tissue type in their own experimental system. Refer to the product datasheet for confirmed application details.

Formulation, Storage, and Handling of Ab351004

Ab351004 is formulated in PBS (Phosphate-Buffered Saline) only, without carrier proteins or preservatives such as BSA or sodium azide unless otherwise stated on the product datasheet. This formulation has implications for storage and use:

• Storage Temperature: Antibodies in PBS without stabilizers are generally stored at –20 °C for long-term storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to aggregation and loss of activity. Aliquot upon receipt if repeated use is anticipated.
• Short-term Storage: If the antibody will be used within 1–2 weeks, storage at 4 °C is acceptable; otherwise maintain at –20 °C.
• Carrier Protein Considerations: Because the formulation does not contain BSA, Ab351004 may be more suitable for applications requiring conjugation or where background from BSA would be problematic.
• Avoid Sodium Azide Exposure: If the product is azide-free, it may be compatible with cell-based assays; confirm on the datasheet.

Always consult the official product datasheet supplied with Ab351004 for confirmed storage conditions and concentration.

Ordering and Technical Support for Ab351004

Ab351004 (MD2 Antibody) is available directly from Aladdin Scientific. When placing an order or requesting technical support, please have the following information ready:

• SKU / Catalog Number: Ab351004
• Supplier Reference: absea#OC-633
• Intended Application: Specify your application (WB, IF, IP, FC, etc.) so our technical team can advise on optimal dilutions and controls.
• Species of Interest: Confirm the species of your sample (e.g., human, mouse, rat) to ensure cross-reactivity has been validated.

For bulk orders, custom formats, or questions about compatibility with specific experimental systems, contact Aladdin Scientific's technical support team. Procurement teams can request a formal quote through the Aladdin Scientific website or designated regional distributors. Volume discounts and institutional pricing may be available — contact our sales team for details.

Frequently asked questions

What is the target of MD2 Antibody (Ab351004)?

Ab351004 targets MD2, also known as Lymphocyte Antigen 96 (LY96) or Myeloid Differentiation factor 2. MD2 is a secreted glycoprotein that associates with TLR4 to form the functional LPS recognition complex central to innate immune activation.

What buffer or formulation does Ab351004 come in?

Ab351004 is formulated in PBS (Phosphate-Buffered Saline) only. It does not contain additional carrier proteins such as BSA unless specifically noted on the datasheet. Users should consult the product datasheet for exact composition, concentration, and storage instructions.

How should I store MD2 Antibody to maintain activity?

For long-term storage, keep Ab351004 at –20 °C. Minimize freeze-thaw cycles by aliquoting the antibody upon receipt. For short-term use within one to two weeks, storage at 4 °C is acceptable. Always follow the specific storage instructions provided on the product datasheet.

Which species does Ab351004 detect, and has cross-reactivity been confirmed?

Species reactivity and cross-reactivity data for Ab351004 are detailed on the official product datasheet. Common species investigated for MD2 research include human and mouse. Please contact Aladdin Scientific technical support or refer to the datasheet to confirm validated species before use.

Can Ab351004 be used in functional or cell-based assays?

Because Ab351004 is formulated in PBS without sodium azide (which is cytotoxic), it may be compatible with functional or cell-based assays such as flow cytometry or cell stimulation studies. However, users must confirm azide-free status on the datasheet and independently validate the antibody for each cell-based application in their experimental system.

How do I place an order for Ab351004?

Ab351004 can be ordered directly through the Aladdin Scientific website using the catalog number Ab351004. For bulk quantities, institutional pricing, or custom requirements, contact the Aladdin Scientific sales or technical support team. Regional distributors may also carry this product.

References

1. Shimazu R, et al. MD-2, a molecule that confers lipopolysaccharide responsiveness on Toll-like receptor 4. Journal of Experimental Medicine. 1999;189(11):1777-1782.
2. Park BS, et al. The structural basis of lipopolysaccharide recognition by the TLR4-MD-2 complex. Nature. 2009;458(7242):1191-1195.
3. Akira S, Uematsu S, Takeuchi O. Pathogen recognition and innate immunity. Cell. 2006;124(4):783-801.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.