The BIRC2 antibody is a crucial tool for studying the Baculoviral IAP Repeat-Containing Protein 2 (BIRC2), also known as cellular Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein 1 (cIAP1). BIRC2 belongs to the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family, which regulates programmed cell death by suppressing caspase activity through its baculoviral IAP repeat (BIR) domains. It plays a dual role in apoptosis and NF-κB signaling, interacting with TNF receptor-associated factors (TRAFs) to modulate inflammatory responses, cell survival, and oncogenesis. Dysregulation of BIRC2 is implicated in cancers, autoimmune disorders, and chemotherapy resistance.
The BIRC2 antibody is widely used in research to detect BIRC2 expression and localization via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. It helps elucidate BIRC2’s mechanistic roles, such as its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity mediated by the RING domain, which promotes protein ubiquitination and degradation. Commercial BIRC2 antibodies are typically validated for specificity against human or model organism samples, though cross-reactivity with homologous proteins (e.g., BIRC3/cIAP2) requires careful experimental controls. Studies using these antibodies have revealed BIRC2’s context-dependent roles—acting as an oncogene in some cancers while exhibiting tumor-suppressive traits in others. Its therapeutic targeting, via small-molecule IAP antagonists, underscores its clinical relevance in cancer therapy.