The DLK2 (Delta-like 2 homolog) antibody is a tool used to study the DLK2 protein, a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like repeat-containing protein family. DLK2 shares structural homology with DLK1. including conserved EGF-like repeats and a transmembrane domain, but its biological roles remain less characterized. While DLK1 is implicated in adipogenesis, neurogenesis, and tumorigenesis, DLK2 is hypothesized to modulate similar pathways, potentially through interactions with the Notch signaling pathway or other receptor systems. However, its exact mechanisms and physiological functions are still under investigation.
DLK2 antibodies are primarily utilized in research applications such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to detect DLK2 expression patterns in tissues or cell lines. These antibodies have been critical in identifying DLK2's expression in specific cancers, stem cell populations, and developmental contexts, suggesting roles in cell differentiation and disease progression. For instance, elevated DLK2 levels have been observed in certain cancers, hinting at its potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target. Commercially available DLK2 antibodies are typically raised in hosts like rabbits or mice, with validation data confirming specificity against human, mouse, or rat DLK2 isoforms. Ongoing studies aim to clarify DLK2's interplay with DLK1 and other signaling molecules, advancing understanding of its contributions to development and pathology.