The MRPL18 antibody is a research tool designed to detect mitochondrial ribosomal protein L18 (MRPL18), a key component of the mitochondrial large ribosomal subunit. MRPL18 is encoded by nuclear DNA and plays a critical role in mitochondrial protein synthesis, supporting the assembly and function of oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complexes essential for ATP production. As mitochondria rely on their own translational machinery to produce subunits of the electron transport chain, MRPL18 is vital for maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and cellular energy metabolism.
Antibodies targeting MRPL18 are widely used in studies investigating mitochondrial dysfunction linked to diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and metabolic syndromes. They enable the detection of MRPL18 expression levels via techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry, helping researchers assess mitochondrial ribosome integrity and biogenesis. Additionally, MRPL18 antibodies aid in exploring tissue-specific expression patterns or alterations under stress conditions, such as hypoxia or nutrient deprivation.
Commercial MRPL18 antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, with validation data including specificity (e.g., knockdown controls) and cross-reactivity across species (human, mouse, rat). Their applications extend to elucidating MRPL18's regulatory roles in apoptosis, cellular senescence, and disease mechanisms, making them valuable tools in mitochondrial biology and translational research.