**Background of RAB18 Antibody**
RAB18 is a small GTPase belonging to the RAS superfamily, involved in intracellular membrane trafficking, lipid droplet dynamics, and autophagy. It plays critical roles in regulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi transport, lipid metabolism, and cellular energy homeostasis. Dysregulation of RAB18 is linked to Warburg Micro syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by neurodevelopmental defects, ocular abnormalities, and endocrine dysfunction.
RAB18 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function. These antibodies are typically generated using recombinant RAB18 protein or synthetic peptides as immunogens, often in rabbits or mice. Validation includes Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry to confirm specificity, often using knockout cell lines or tissues as controls.
RAB18 antibodies enable researchers to investigate its interaction with effectors like RAB3GAP1/2 complexes and its role in diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes, and cancer. Commercial antibodies vary in clonality (monoclonal/polyclonal), host species, and applications, with some targeting specific post-translational modifications (e.g., prenylation). Recent studies also explore RAB18 as a potential therapeutic target, highlighting the antibody's utility in both basic research and translational medicine.
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