The S100A2 antibody is a crucial tool for studying the S100A2 protein, a member of the S100 calcium-binding protein family. S100A2 is implicated in regulating cellular processes such as cell cycle progression, differentiation, and cytoskeletal dynamics. Unlike other S100 proteins, S100A2 exhibits tissue-specific expression, predominantly in epithelial cells, and has dual roles in cancer, acting as either a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on the cancer type. For example, it is downregulated in prostate and breast cancers but overexpressed in lung and pancreatic cancers, highlighting its context-dependent functions.
S100A2 antibodies are widely used in techniques like immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting (WB), and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect protein expression, localization, and interactions. These antibodies are typically raised in hosts such as rabbits or mice, with specificity validated via knockout controls or siRNA silencing. Commercial S100A2 antibodies often target conserved epitopes, ensuring cross-reactivity across species like human, mouse, and rat.
Research leveraging S100A2 antibodies has advanced understanding of its role in cancer prognosis, metastasis, and therapeutic targeting. Additionally, studies explore its involvement in inflammatory diseases and wound healing. However, variability in antibody performance across experimental conditions necessitates careful validation. Overall, S100A2 antibodies remain pivotal in elucidating the protein's diverse biological and pathological mechanisms.