The S100A16 antibody is a research tool designed to detect S100A16. a member of the S100 protein family characterized by calcium-binding EF-hand motifs. S100A16. also termed S100 calcium-binding protein A16 or S100F, is involved in diverse cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Unlike other S100 proteins, S100A16 lacks typical calcium-binding residues in one EF-hand domain, suggesting unique regulatory mechanisms. It is ubiquitously expressed, with higher levels in tissues such as the brain, pancreas, and adipose tissue. Dysregulation of S100A16 has been linked to cancers (e.g., breast, prostate, thyroid), metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes, obesity), and neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting its potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target.
S100A16 antibodies are commonly used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to study its expression, localization, and interactions. Polyclonal and monoclonal variants exist, often validated for specificity using knockout/knockdown models or peptide blocking assays. Challenges include cross-reactivity with other S100 proteins due to structural homology, necessitating careful validation. Researchers also investigate post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation, dimerization) that modulate S100A16’s function. Recent studies explore its dual roles in tumor progression (pro- or anti-cancer effects depending on context) and metabolic signaling, underscoring the importance of reliable antibodies for mechanistic insights. Optimal experimental conditions (e.g., tissue fixation, antigen retrieval) are critical for reproducible results.