The MUC12 antibody is designed to target mucin 12 (MUC12), a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the mucin family, which plays critical roles in epithelial cell protection, lubrication, and cell signaling. MUC12 is encoded by the *MUC12* gene and is characterized by its heavily glycosylated extracellular domain containing tandem repeat sequences, a hallmark of mucins. While its exact biological functions remain under investigation, MUC12 is implicated in maintaining mucosal barriers and modulating immune responses. Dysregulation of MUC12 expression has been observed in gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal and gastric cancers, suggesting its potential role as a biomarker or therapeutic target.
Antibodies against MUC12 are primarily used in research to study its expression patterns, localization, and interactions in normal and diseased tissues. These tools enable detection via techniques like immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence (IF). Developing MUC12-specific antibodies is challenging due to the protein’s high glycosylation and structural variability across individuals. However, advances in epitope mapping and recombinant antibody engineering have improved specificity.
Current studies focus on elucidating MUC12’s involvement in cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance, with some evidence linking it to altered cell adhesion and signaling pathways. Clinically, MUC12 antibodies may aid in diagnostic assays or targeted therapies, though further validation is needed. Their utility underscores the growing interest in mucins as multifaceted players in health and disease.