**Background of MAPK11 Antibody**
The MAPK11 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 11) antibody is a key tool for studying the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family, which regulates cellular responses to stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. MAPK11. also known as p38β, is one of four p38 isoforms (p38α, β, γ, δ) and shares structural homology with p38α. It is activated by upstream kinases (MKK3/6) in response to cytokines, environmental stressors, or growth factors, leading to phosphorylation of downstream targets involved in cell differentiation, survival, and cytokine production.
MAPK11-specific antibodies are designed to detect endogenous levels of the protein, often targeting unique epitopes in its N- or C-terminal regions. These antibodies are validated for applications like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to explore MAPK11 expression, activation (via phospho-specific antibodies), and localization in tissues or cell lines. Research using MAPK11 antibodies has linked its dysregulation to diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune conditions, highlighting its role as a potential therapeutic target.
Specificity is critical, as cross-reactivity with other p38 isoforms can occur. High-quality antibodies are typically verified using knockout controls or siRNA-mediated silencing. Their use advances understanding of MAPK11's distinct functions in signaling pathways, complementing studies on overlapping or isoform-specific mechanisms in health and disease.