The NME1 (Non-Metastatic Protein 1) antibody is a crucial tool for studying the NME1 protein, also known as NM23-H1 or NDPK-A, which belongs to the nucleoside diphosphate kinase (NDPK) family. Discovered in 1988 as a metastasis suppressor in melanoma, NME1 regulates cellular processes like proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis by maintaining nucleotide homeostasis, influencing signal transduction, and participating in DNA repair. It localizes to both cytoplasm and nucleus, with roles in metastasis inhibition, particularly in cancers like breast, liver, and lung carcinomas. Reduced NME1 expression is often linked to aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis.
NME1 antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect protein expression levels, subcellular localization, and interactions in cancer research. These antibodies help elucidate NME1’s dual roles—acting as a metastasis suppressor in some contexts while promoting invasiveness in others. Specificity is critical due to homology with other NME family members (e.g., NME2-NME4). Clinically, NME1 antibodies aid in biomarker studies, exploring correlations between protein expression, tumor progression, and therapeutic responses. Additionally, they support research into non-cancer roles, such as neural development and ciliary function, with mutations in NME1 implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Validated antibodies ensure accurate detection, minimizing cross-reactivity with isoforms.