HOXA11/D11 Transcription Factor Activity Assay

The HOXA11 and HOXD11 proteins belong to the homeobox (HOX) family of transcription factors that govern anterior-posterior body patterning during embryogenesis and remain active in adult tissues. They form heterodimeric complexes that bind AT-rich DNA consensus sequences to regulate downstream targets involved in Müllerian duct regression, limb and skeletal morphogenesis, and reproductive tract differentiation. Dysregulated HOXA11/D11 activity has been documented in endometrial disorders, acute myeloid leukemia, and several solid tumours, making quantitative measurement of their DNA-binding activity valuable for translational research programmes.

This DNA-binding ELISA captures active HOXA11/D11 from prepared nuclear lysates using immobilised consensus oligonucleotides, then detects bound protein with a specific antibody. Nuclear and cell lysates are the recommended sample types, and the kit is reactive with Human, Mouse, and Rat specimens, enabling cross-species comparison in knockout, knockdown, and overexpression models. The microplate format supports medium-throughput screening of chromatin extracts, ChIP validation, or compound-induced changes in transcription factor occupancy.

Typical workflow involves isolating nuclei by hypotonic lysis, incubating the extract in the oligonucleotide-coated wells to allow sequence-specific binding, washing away unbound material, and developing with the supplied reagents. Researchers studying developmental gene regulatory networks, reproductive biology, or HOX-driven oncogenic pathways can use this assay from Assay Genie to compare relative DNA-binding activity across treatment groups, time points, or genotypes. Store kit components refrigerated at 4 degrees C upon receipt and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles of the antibody and oligonucleotide reagents to preserve binding performance.