The AKR1C1 antibody is a crucial tool for studying the aldo-keto reductase family 1 member C1 (AKR1C1), an enzyme involved in steroid hormone metabolism and xenobiotic detoxification. AKR1C1. also known as 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of ketosteroids, prostaglandins, and xenobiotic carbonyl compounds. It plays a regulatory role in hormone-sensitive tissues by modulating the bioavailability of potent hormones like progesterone, estrogens, and androgens. This enzyme is implicated in various physiological and pathological processes, including endocrine signaling, cancer progression (particularly hormone-related cancers), and drug resistance through its role in metabolizing chemotherapeutic agents.
AKR1C1 antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect protein expression, cellular localization, and tissue distribution. Researchers employ these antibodies to investigate AKR1C1's involvement in diseases like prostate cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where altered hormone metabolism is observed. Additionally, the antibody aids in exploring AKR1C1's potential as a therapeutic target or biomarker. Its specificity for distinguishing AKR1C1 from homologous isoforms (AKR1C2. AKR1C3. AKR1C4) is critical for accurate experimental interpretation. Validation parameters, including species reactivity, immunogen sequences, and application-specific performance, are essential considerations for experimental design.