The SUFU (Suppressor of Fused) protein is a critical regulator of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, which plays essential roles in embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and stem cell maintenance. SUFU acts as a tumor suppressor by binding to GLI transcription factors (GLI1. GLI2. GLI3), the primary mediators of Hh signaling, and sequestering them in the cytoplasm to inhibit their nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity. This interaction prevents uncontrolled cell proliferation and differentiation, making SUFU a key modulator of pathway activity. Dysregulation of SUFU, through mutations or loss of expression, is implicated in various cancers, including medulloblastoma, basal cell carcinoma, and meningioma, as well as developmental disorders.
SUFU antibodies are vital tools for studying Hh pathway dynamics. They enable the detection and quantification of SUFU protein levels in cells and tissues via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Researchers also use these antibodies to investigate SUFU-GLI interactions, post-translational modifications, and subcellular localization under different physiological or pathological conditions. Additionally, SUFU antibodies aid in identifying genetic or epigenetic alterations in SUFU in cancer models, offering insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Their specificity and reliability are critical for advancing both basic research and clinical diagnostics related to Hh-driven pathologies.