Myc Tag DNA Sequence
Definition, Function, Applications & Epitope Tag Comparison
1. What Is Myc Tag DNA Sequence?
The Myc tag DNA sequence encodes a short peptide epitope derived from the human c-Myc protein. The standard sequence is EQKLISEEDL, widely used in recombinant protein expression systems.
• Amino acid sequence: EQKLISEEDL
• Molecular weight: ~1.2 kDa
• Length: 10 amino acids
• Fusion: N-terminus or C-terminus
The Myc tag is commonly used in plasmid constructs to allow protein detection with specific antibodies.
2. Functions of Myc Tag DNA Sequence
The Myc tag DNA sequence allows identification and tracking of recombinant proteins.
- Protein detection (Western blot)
- Cellular localization (immunofluorescence)
- Protein purification
- Protein-protein interaction analysis
- Expression validation
Due to its small size, the Myc tag usually does not interfere with protein structure or function.
3. Applications of Myc Tag DNA Sequence
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Western Blot | Detects Myc-tagged proteins using antibodies |
| Immunofluorescence | Shows protein location inside cells |
| Co-IP | Studies protein interactions |
| Affinity Purification | Isolates tagged proteins |
| ELISA | Quantifies protein expression |
| Pull-down Assay | Identifies binding partners |
4. Myc Tag vs Other Epitope Tags
| Tag | Sequence | Size | Advantage | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Myc | EQKLISEEDL | ~1.2 kDa | Small, highly specific | Detection |
| FLAG | DYKDDDDK | ~1.0 kDa | High affinity antibodies | Purification |
| HA | YPYDVPDYA | ~1.1 kDa | Well characterized | Detection |
| 6×His | HHHHHH | ~0.84 kDa | Efficient purification | IMAC purification |
| GST | Protein tag | ~26 kDa | Improves solubility | Protein purification |
5. Advantages of Myc Tag DNA Sequence
- Small size reduces protein interference
- Works in many expression systems
- Strong antibody recognition
- Suitable for multiple assays
6. Limitations
- Less efficient for purification than His tag
- Requires high-quality antibodies
- Limited elution flexibility
7. Conclusion
The Myc tag DNA sequence (EQKLISEEDL) is a widely used epitope tag for protein detection and molecular biology studies. Its small size and strong specificity make it a standard tool in recombinant protein research.