Biotium launches MiniMab single-domain antibodies for STORM imaging
Biotium has unveiled its innovative MiniMab™ single-domain antibody (SdAb) series, engineered specifically for stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) applications in neuroscience research. The California-based life science reagent developer has introduced three high-performance recombinant alpaca VHH antibodies targeting critical neural proteins: glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), synaptotagmin 1 (SYT1), and vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGLUT1).
Enhanced imaging performance through molecular engineering
The MiniMab SdAbs represent a significant advancement over conventional antibodies, offering “deeper tissue penetration for better target accessibility” and “higher solubility and stability for robust performance,” according to the company. These single-domain antibodies deliver faster staining protocols and superior signal clarity whilst producing smaller conjugates that reduce localisation error in super-resolution imaging applications.
Each antibody conjugate is optimised for use with Biotium’s proprietary CF® Dyes, designed specifically for STORM imaging platforms. The series also includes conjugation options with the company’s photostable near-infrared CF®740 dye, expanding compatibility across imaging modalities.
Targeted neural protein detection capabilities
The GFAP (SdAb2409.GFAP) antibody targets glial fibrillary acidic protein, serving as a hallmark astrocyte marker in neural tissue analysis. This single-domain antibody enables robust visualisation of GFAP isoforms, particularly the alpha variant, and demonstrates high specificity for studying glial cell development, tumour biology, and central nervous system disorders across human, mouse, and rat samples.
The VGLUT1 (SdAb2412.VGLUT1) conjugate provides precise visualisation of glutamatergic synapses through recognition of the cytoplasmic region of vesicular glutamate transporter 1 in rat and mouse specimens, with expected cross-reactivity to human VGLUT1 based on sequence homology.
SYT1 (SdAb2501.SYT1) binds specifically to synaptotagmin 1, a calcium-sensing protein essential for synaptic vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter release mechanisms. The antibody targets the cytoplasmic domain of SYT1 in rodent models and demonstrates expected human cross-reactivity through sequence conservation.
Comprehensive reagent ecosystem for advanced microscopy
Biotium has developed an integrated product portfolio to complement the MiniMab series, including Mix-n-Stain™ Nanobody Labeling Kits for optimal antibody labelling without purification requirements, and Mix-n-Stain™ STORM CF® Dye Antibody Labeling Kits that achieve low degree of labelling optimal for STORM imaging in 30-minute protocols.
The company’s CF® Dye Single Label Secondary Antibodies feature an average degree of labelling of one, specifically engineered for super-resolution imaging applications. This technical specification addresses the critical requirement for minimal fluorophore density in STORM imaging protocols.
Future development pipeline
The MiniMab product line represents an ongoing expansion initiative, with additional conjugates currently in development targeting critical cellular structures across neuroscience and other research disciplines. This strategic development approach aims to provide researchers with comprehensive next-generation imaging capabilities.
- For more information, visit: https://biotium.com/
