The IRF8 antibody is a crucial tool for studying the interferon regulatory factor 8 (IRF8), a transcription factor belonging to the IRF family. IRF8. primarily expressed in hematopoietic cells, plays a pivotal role in immune cell differentiation and function, particularly in myeloid and lymphoid lineages. It regulates the development of macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells, while also influencing T-cell responses. Dysregulation of IRF8 is linked to immune disorders, leukemias, and autoimmune diseases, making it a key focus in immunology and oncology research.
IRF8 antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) to detect IRF8 expression, localization, and DNA-binding activity. These antibodies aid in elucidating IRF8's role in immune signaling pathways, such as its interaction with PU.1 to regulate target genes, or its involvement in interferon-mediated responses. Monoclonal IRF8 antibodies offer high specificity, while polyclonal versions may detect multiple epitopes, enhancing sensitivity.
Validated IRF8 antibodies are critical for ensuring accurate experimental results, as cross-reactivity with other IRF family members (e.g., IRF4 or IRF5) can lead to misinterpretation. Researchers often verify antibody performance using knockout controls or siRNA-based silencing. Commercial IRF8 antibodies are typically tested for reactivity in human, mouse, and rat samples, supporting cross-species studies. Their applications span basic research into immune cell biology, cancer mechanisms, and therapeutic development, particularly in targeting IRF8-associated pathways for immunotherapy or precision medicine.