The DHX36 antibody is a crucial tool in studying the DEAH-box helicase 36 (DHX36), also known as RHAU, a conserved RNA/DNA helicase involved in resolving G-quadruplex (G4) structures. These non-canonical nucleic acid formations play roles in transcription, translation, telomere maintenance, and genome stability. DHX36 exhibits ATP-dependent unwinding activity, preferentially targeting G4s in both RNA and DNA, and is implicated in mRNA metabolism, ribosome biogenesis, and innate immune signaling. Its nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling suggests diverse cellular functions, including roles in embryogenesis, cancer, and neurodegeneration.
The antibody enables detection and localization of DHX36 in techniques like Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. Researchers use it to explore DHX36 expression patterns, interactions with G4-containing molecules (e.g., telomeric DNA, oncogene mRNAs), and regulatory mechanisms in diseases. Specific DHX36 antibodies are validated for species cross-reactivity (human, mouse, rat) and tested in knockout controls to ensure specificity. Some antibodies target distinct domains, such as the helicase core or N-terminal G4-binding region, aiding functional studies.
DHX36 antibodies have advanced understanding of G4 biology, revealing links between helicase dysfunction and pathologies like cancer metastasis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Their applications span basic research, diagnostics, and therapeutic development, underscoring DHX36's role as a key modulator of nucleic acid structure and function.