TIMP1 (Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases 1) is a glycoprotein that plays a critical role in regulating extracellular matrix (ECM) homeostasis by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP-9. As a key member of the TIMP family, TIMP1 balances ECM degradation and synthesis, influencing tissue remodeling, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of TIMP1 is implicated in pathologies like fibrosis, cancer, and inflammatory diseases, where its overexpression often correlates with disease progression, such as tumor metastasis or liver fibrosis.
TIMP1 antibodies are essential tools for detecting and quantifying TIMP1 in research and clinical settings. These antibodies enable studies of TIMP1 expression patterns in tissues or fluids via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), or ELISA. In cancer research, TIMP1 antibodies help explore its dual role—while it suppresses MMP activity, elevated TIMP1 levels may paradoxically promote tumor survival and angiogenesis. Similarly, in fibrosis studies, TIMP1 antibodies aid in understanding its contribution to ECM accumulation in organs like the liver or lungs.
Clinically, TIMP1 is investigated as a biomarker for disease prognosis or therapeutic targeting. Antibodies against TIMP1 also support drug development by validating inhibitors or neutralizing agents. Despite its complex roles, TIMP1 remains a focal point in unraveling ECM-related mechanisms, making its antibody a vital reagent in both basic and translational research.