TUBE1 antibody targets tubulin beta-1 (TUBB1), a member of the tubulin superfamily critical for microtubule formation. Microtubules are dynamic cytoskeletal structures involved in cell division, intracellular transport, and maintaining cell shape. The TUBB1 gene encodes β-tubulin, which pairs with α-tubulin to form heterodimers—the building blocks of microtubules. β-tubulin isoforms, including TUBB1. exhibit tissue-specific expression and functional diversity, with TUBB1 particularly noted for its role in megakaryocytes and platelets.
TUBE1 antibodies are widely used in research to study microtubule dynamics, cell cycle regulation, and cellular responses to microtubule-targeting drugs (e.g., taxanes, vinca alkaloids). They are applied in techniques like Western blot (WB), immunofluorescence (IF), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) to detect β-tubulin expression, localization, and post-translational modifications (e.g., tyrosination, acetylation) linked to microtubule stability and function.
Aberrant β-tubulin expression or mutations are associated with diseases such as cancer (chemoresistance), neurodevelopmental disorders, and platelet disorders. TUBE1 antibodies also serve as loading controls in protein analysis due to β-tubulin’s constitutive expression. However, researchers must verify antibody specificity, as cross-reactivity with other β-tubulin isoforms (e.g., TUBB, TUBB3) can occur. Recent studies emphasize its utility in exploring microtubule-related mechanisms in neurodegeneration, cilia function, and mitotic defects, underscoring its importance in basic and translational research.