The CAPZA2 antibody targets the alpha-2 subunit of the F-actin capping protein (CapZ), a conserved heterodimer (α/β) crucial for regulating actin filament dynamics. CapZ binds to the fast-growing (barbed) ends of actin filaments, stabilizing them by preventing uncontrolled polymerization or depolymerization. This regulation is vital for processes like cell motility, morphogenesis, and endocytosis. The CAPZA2 subunit, encoded by the CAPZA2 gene, is ubiquitously expressed and interacts with membrane-associated proteins, signaling molecules, and other cytoskeletal regulators (e.g., ARP2/3 complex, cofilin) to coordinate actin remodeling.
Antibodies against CAPZA2 are widely used in research to study its localization, expression levels, and functional roles in cellular processes. Dysregulation of CAPZA2 has been linked to pathologies, including cancer metastasis (e.g., breast, prostate) and neurological disorders, where aberrant actin dynamics contribute to disease progression. Commercial CAPZA2 antibodies are typically validated for techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry. Recent studies also explore its involvement in immune cell function and synaptic plasticity, highlighting its broad relevance. However, specificity validation (e.g., knockout controls) remains essential due to potential cross-reactivity with other CapZ isoforms.