The STX5 antibody targets Syntaxin-5 (STX5), a member of the syntaxin family of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins. STX5 is primarily localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus, where it plays a critical role in mediating intracellular membrane fusion events, particularly in anterograde and retrograde vesicular trafficking between the ER, Golgi, and post-Golgi compartments. Two isoforms of STX5 exist (long and short), generated by alternative splicing, which exhibit distinct subcellular distributions and functional roles in membrane dynamics.
STX5 antibodies are widely used as research tools to study protein trafficking, Golgi structure, and secretory pathways. They are employed in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to detect STX5 expression, localization, and interactions with other SNARE proteins (e.g., Bet1. Sec22b) or regulatory factors like COPI/COPII coats. These antibodies help elucidate STX5's involvement in diseases linked to trafficking defects, including certain cancers, neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s), and metabolic conditions.
Commercial STX5 antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, with specificity validated across human, mouse, and rat samples. Researchers must verify isoform reactivity, as functional studies often depend on distinguishing between STX5 isoforms. Its conserved role in vesicle transport makes STX5 a key focus in cell biology and therapeutic exploration.