The REG3A antibody is a research tool designed to detect REG3A (Regenerating Islet-Derived Protein 3 Alpha), a secreted protein belonging to the REG family of C-type lectins. REG3A, also known as pancreatic secretory protein (PAP) or hepatocarcinoma-intestine-pancreas/pancreatitis-associated protein (HIP/PAP), is primarily expressed in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and other tissues. It plays a role in cell proliferation, tissue repair, and antimicrobial activity, particularly in maintaining gut barrier function by targeting peptidoglycan components of bacterial cell walls.
REG3A is upregulated during inflammation, infection, or tissue injury, making it a biomarker for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, and certain cancers. Its overexpression has been observed in gastrointestinal cancers, where it may promote tumor progression via pathways involving cell survival and metastasis.
The REG3A antibody is widely used in techniques such as immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and ELISA to study its expression patterns, localization, and regulatory mechanisms in both normal and diseased states. Researchers utilize this antibody to explore REG3A's dual roles in host defense and disease pathogenesis, aiming to clarify its potential as a therapeutic target or diagnostic marker. Understanding REG3A's functions could advance treatments for infections, chronic inflammation, and cancer.