SCGB3A1 (Secretoglobin Family 3A Member 1), also known as uteroglobin-related protein 1 (UGRP1), is a small secreted protein belonging to the secretoglobin superfamily. It is primarily expressed in epithelial cells of the respiratory tract, reproductive organs, and other mucosal surfaces. SCGB3A1 is implicated in immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory functions, potentially regulating cellular responses to oxidative stress, tissue injury, and pathogen exposure. Its expression is influenced by hormonal signals and inflammatory cytokines, suggesting roles in maintaining mucosal homeostasis and modulating immune activity.
Antibodies targeting SCGB3A1 are critical tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in both physiological and pathological contexts. They are widely used in techniques such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, and ELISA to investigate SCGB3A1’s involvement in respiratory diseases (e.g., asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung fibrosis), reproductive disorders, and cancers. For instance, reduced SCGB3A1 levels have been linked to impaired lung repair mechanisms, while its overexpression in certain tumors may correlate with disease progression.
Commercial SCGB3A1 antibodies are typically developed in rabbit or mouse hosts, with validation across human and model organism tissues. Researchers prioritize antibodies with high specificity to avoid cross-reactivity with homologous secretoglobins like SCGB1A1 (uteroglobin). These reagents have advanced studies exploring SCGB3A1 as a biomarker for early disease detection or a therapeutic target for modulating inflammation and tissue remodeling pathways.