The IFFO2 (Intermediate Filament Family Orphan 2) antibody is a research tool designed to study the IFFO2 protein, a lesser-characterized member of the intermediate filament (IF) protein family. Intermediate filaments are critical components of the cytoskeleton, providing mechanical stability, regulating cell shape, and participating in intracellular signaling. While IF proteins like vimentin, keratin, and desmin are well-studied, IFFO2 remains an "orphan" protein with unclear structural or functional roles. Emerging studies suggest IFFO2 may interact with other cytoskeletal elements or nuclear components, potentially influencing cell adhesion, migration, or stress response pathways.
IFFO2 antibodies are primarily used in basic research to map the protein's expression patterns, subcellular localization, and interactions. They enable techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry to investigate IFFO2's tissue-specific distribution, particularly in contexts like cancer or developmental biology. Some studies explore its dysregulation in tumors, where altered intermediate filament expression often correlates with metastasis or drug resistance. However, the lack of extensive functional data necessitates rigorous validation of IFFO2 antibodies to ensure specificity, given potential cross-reactivity with other IF proteins.
Commercial IFFO2 antibodies are typically generated using recombinant protein fragments or synthetic peptides as immunogens. Researchers must verify their reactivity through knockout controls or siRNA-mediated silencing. Despite limited characterization, IFFO2 antibodies remain valuable for unraveling the biological significance of this enigmatic protein in cellular dynamics and disease.