Transferrin receptor 1 (TFRC), also known as CD71. is a transmembrane glycoprotein critical for cellular iron uptake. It binds to iron-loaded transferrin, facilitating its internalization via receptor-mediated endocytosis. This process is essential for maintaining iron homeostasis, as iron is indispensable for numerous physiological functions, including oxygen transport, DNA synthesis, and energy production. TFRC is ubiquitously expressed but shows elevated levels in rapidly proliferating cells, such as erythroid precursors, activated lymphocytes, and cancer cells, due to their heightened demand for iron.
TFRC antibodies are widely used in research and diagnostics to detect TFRC protein expression, serving as a marker for cellular iron metabolism status or proliferation activity. In cancer biology, TFRC overexpression is linked to tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis, making it a potential therapeutic target. Antibodies against TFRC are employed in techniques like flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting to study iron-related disorders (e.g., anemia), neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s), and cancer mechanisms. Additionally, TFRC-targeting antibodies have therapeutic applications, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) or nanocarriers designed to deliver cytotoxic agents specifically to TFRC-overexpressing malignant cells. Some antibodies also block TFRC function to inhibit iron-dependent tumor growth. Clone-specific variations in TFRC antibodies influence their binding affinity, epitope recognition, and suitability for particular experimental or clinical contexts.