Fatty acid-binding protein 7 (FABP7), also known as brain-type FABP or BLBP, is a cytoplasmic protein belonging to the FABP family, which facilitates the transport and metabolism of fatty acids. Primarily expressed in the brain, particularly in astrocytes and radial glial cells, FABP7 plays a critical role in neurodevelopment, lipid signaling, and maintaining cell membrane integrity. It is implicated in regulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation, with emerging links to neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis) and cancers (e.g., glioblastoma, melanoma).
FABP7 antibodies are essential tools for detecting and quantifying this protein in research and diagnostics. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to study FABP7's expression patterns, subcellular localization, and interactions in tissues or cultured cells. Commercially available FABP7 antibodies are often raised against recombinant human or murine FABP7 proteins, ensuring species cross-reactivity. Validation typically includes testing on knockout models or siRNA-treated cells to confirm specificity.
Recent studies highlight FABP7's potential as a biomarker for aggressive cancers or neurodegenerative conditions, driving demand for reliable antibodies. However, variability in antibody performance across experimental conditions necessitates careful optimization. Ongoing research aims to clarify FABP7's dual roles in neuroprotection and disease progression, underscoring the antibody's value in bridging mechanistic insights and therapeutic development.