RNF146 (Ring Finger Protein 146) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in the ubiquitin-proteasome system, playing a critical role in regulating cellular processes such as DNA repair, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and stress response. It recognizes and binds to poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR)-modified substrates, a hallmark of DNA damage or oxidative stress, and promotes their ubiquitination and subsequent degradation. Key targets include Axin, a negative regulator of Wnt signaling, and PARP1. a DNA repair enzyme. Dysregulation of RNF146 has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Antibodies targeting RNF146 are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and molecular interactions. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence to investigate RNF146's role in pathways such as Wnt signaling or PAR-mediated stress responses. Researchers also employ these antibodies to explore how RNF146 modulates pathological conditions, including its dual role in promoting cancer cell survival (via degrading tumor suppressors) or enhancing neuronal death (through excessive protein clearance). Validated RNF146 antibodies help dissect its regulatory mechanisms, including post-translational modifications and substrate specificity, offering insights into therapeutic targeting of PAR-dependent ubiquitination pathways.