FOXM1 (Forkhead box protein M1) is a transcription factor belonging to the Forkhead family, known for its critical role in regulating cell cycle progression, proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. It is highly expressed in actively dividing cells and is frequently overexpressed in various cancers, correlating with poor prognosis and therapeutic resistance. FOXM1 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and functional mechanisms in both normal physiology and disease contexts.
These antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) to detect FOXM1 protein levels, subcellular distribution, and DNA-binding activity. Monoclonal antibodies offer high specificity for FOXM1 isoforms (e.g., FOXM1b/c), while polyclonal antibodies may detect broader epitopes. Researchers often validate them using knockout cell lines or siRNA knockdown to confirm target specificity.
FOXM1 antibodies have advanced cancer research by identifying its role in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. They also aid in exploring FOXM1 as a potential diagnostic biomarker or therapeutic target. Challenges include cross-reactivity with other Forkhead family members and variability in detection due to post-translational modifications. Selecting well-validated antibodies and optimizing experimental conditions are crucial for reliable results in FOXM1-related studies.