The PAX6 antibody is a crucial tool in biomedical research, targeting the PAX6 protein, a highly conserved transcription factor belonging to the PAX (paired box) gene family. PAX6 plays a pivotal role in embryonic development, particularly in eye morphogenesis, neurogenesis, and pancreatic cell differentiation. Mutations in the PAX6 gene are linked to ocular disorders such as aniridia (iris hypoplasia) and congenital cataracts, as well as neurological and metabolic abnormalities.
PAX6 antibodies are widely used to detect and localize the PAX6 protein in tissues and cells via techniques like immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence (IF). These antibodies help researchers study PAX6 expression patterns during development, its role in maintaining progenitor cell populations, and its dysregulation in diseases. For instance, PAX6 is expressed in pancreatic islet cells, making its antibody relevant in diabetes research.
Most PAX6 antibodies are raised against conserved regions (e.g., paired or homeodomains) and validated for specificity using knockout models or siRNA-treated samples. They are available as monoclonal or polyclonal formats, with cross-reactivity tested across species (human, mouse, rat). Quality control typically includes validation in known PAX6-positive tissues (e.g., developing eye, brain, pancreas).
PAX6 antibodies also aid in diagnosing PAX6-related disorders and exploring regenerative therapies. Their utility extends to cancer research, as PAX6 may act as an oncogene or tumor suppressor in context-dependent malignancies like glioblastoma or neuroblastoma.