The P2RX2 antibody is a research tool designed to target the P2X purinoreceptor 2 (P2RX2), a ligand-gated ion channel activated by extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP). P2RX2 is part of the P2X receptor family, comprising seven subtypes (P2X1-7) that mediate cellular responses to ATP, a key signaling molecule in physiological and pathological processes. Structurally, P2RX2 forms a trimeric channel with two transmembrane domains per subunit, facilitating cation flux (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺) upon ATP binding. It is widely expressed in the central nervous system, sensory neurons, cochlear hair cells, and epithelial tissues, playing roles in neurotransmission, pain perception, and auditory signaling.
P2RX2 antibodies are primarily used to study the receptor's expression, localization, and function in various tissues. They enable detection via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence, aiding investigations into P2RX2's involvement in diseases. For example, P2RX2 dysfunction is linked to noise-induced hearing loss, as ATP signaling in the cochlea helps regulate auditory sensitivity. Mutations in the P2RX2 gene are associated with progressive hearing impairment in humans. Additionally, P2RX2 is implicated in chronic pain pathways and neuroinflammatory conditions, making it a potential therapeutic target.
These antibodies are critical for elucidating receptor dynamics, ATP-mediated signaling mechanisms, and their pathophysiological relevance. Researchers rely on validated P2RX2 antibodies to explore its role in cellular communication, sensory processing, and disease models, advancing insights into purinergic signaling and related therapies.