Human Chloride Intracellular Channel Protein 4 (CLIC4) ELISA Kit – Technical Overview and Research Applications

The Human Chloride Intracellular Channel Protein 4 (CLIC4) is a redox-sensitive protein with both enzymatic and ion channel activities. It has been recognized as a key intracellular player in signal transduction, membrane trafficking, cytoskeletal remodeling, and apoptosis. The CLIC4 ELISA Kit is widely employed for quantitative analysis of CLIC4 expression in human serum, plasma, and cell culture supernatants—making it essential for oncology, immunology, cardiovascular research, and neurodegeneration.

Gene & Protein Background

CLIC4 is encoded by the CLIC4 gene on human chromosome 1p36.11. The protein can function both as a soluble cytoplasmic enzyme and as a membrane-bound ion channel. Its insertion into intracellular membranes is tightly regulated by oxidative stress and intracellular pH. CLIC4 contains a GST-like domain, and shares structural homology with other CLIC family members.

For more on gene structure:

• NCBI Gene Database – CLIC4

• Ensembl Genome Browser

• UCSC Genome Browser

Molecular Mechanisms

CLIC4 participates in several cellular processes:

• TGF-β signaling (via Smad2/3 nuclear translocation)

• Actin cytoskeleton remodeling

• Mitochondrial membrane potential regulation

• Endothelial tubulogenesis

CLIC4 activity is redox-regulated and plays an integral role in NADPH oxidase (NOX)–driven ROS signaling. This links it to redox-sensitive transcriptional regulation, especially in cancer.

Further reading:

• NIH NIEHS Redox Biology

• PubMed – CLIC4 and TGF-beta

Role in Disease

CLIC4 is differentially expressed in multiple pathological contexts:

• Upregulated in squamous cell carcinoma, glioblastoma, and renal fibrosis

• Downregulated in some breast and colorectal tumors

• Involved in inflammatory bowel disease and pulmonary hypertension

Key NIH-supported resources:

• NCI Cancer Gene Database

• National Institute on Aging – Biomarkers

• NIH Liver Disease Research Plan

CLIC4 as a Biomarker

CLIC4 is emerging as a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker:

• Correlates with fibrotic transformation

• Tracks with tumor angiogenesis

• May predict chemotherapy resistance

Standard biomarker validation methods include:

• FDA Biomarker Qualification Program

• NIH Common Fund – Biomarkers Consortium

ELISA Kit Specifications

Protocols and technical standards:

• CDC Laboratory Quality Standards

• NIH Assay Development Guidelines

Sample Handling

Recommended sample types include:

• EDTA plasma

• Serum

• Whole cell lysates

• Tissue homogenates

Samples must be centrifuged and stored at -80°C. Guidelines for biobanking:

• NCI Biospecimen Best Practices

• NIH Biorepositories and Biospecimen Research Branch

Applications of the CLIC4 ELISA Kit

This ELISA kit is crucial for:

• Preclinical drug testing

• Signal transduction studies

• Tumor microenvironment modeling

• Fibrosis and ECM remodeling studies

• Oxidative stress and cell death pathways

Relevant tools and assay guides:

• NIH Molecular Libraries Program

• NCATS Translational Toolbox

Cross-reactivity and Controls

This kit exhibits no detectable cross-reactivity with:

• CLIC1, CLIC2, CLIC5, or CLIC6

• Human serum albumin (HSA)

• Non-human primate samples (partially tested)

Validation processes conform to:

• FDA Analytical Validation Guidelines

• CLSI Immunoassay Standards

Emerging Research Directions

Recent investigations supported by NIH and academic institutions suggest roles for CLIC4 in:

• Glioma resistance to temozolomide

• Hypoxia-induced epithelial transition

• Wound healing and keratinocyte migration

Explore funded projects:

• NIH RePORTER – CLIC4 Projects

• ClinicalTrials.gov – CLIC4 Studies

Conclusion

The Human CLIC4 ELISA Kit is a robust, reproducible, and validated tool for high-sensitivity detection of CLIC4. It enables scientists to interrogate mechanisms of inflammation, fibrosis, tumor progression, and cellular stress. Designed to meet the strictest QC benchmarks, it is ideal for use in academic, government, and industry research environments.

Resources for ordering, compliance, and regulatory information:

• FDA In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Device Regulations

• NIH Research Tools Policy

• NSF Research Infrastructure Programs