FHOD1 (Formin Homology Domain-containing protein 1) is a member of the formin family of actin-nucleating proteins that regulate cytoskeletal dynamics by promoting actin filament assembly. It plays critical roles in cell migration, adhesion, and morphogenesis through its conserved FH1 and FH2 domains, which mediate interactions with actin and other cytoskeletal regulators. FHOD1 is distinct from other formins due to its unique N-terminal extension and autoinhibitory mechanism, which modulates its activation in response to Rho GTPase signaling, particularly RhoC.
Antibodies targeting FHOD1 are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in cellular processes. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to investigate FHOD1's involvement in physiological and pathological contexts, including cancer metastasis, cardiovascular development, and immune cell regulation. Commercial FHOD1 antibodies are typically raised against specific epitopes, such as the C-terminal region, and validated for species reactivity (e.g., human, mouse, rat). Researchers must verify antibody specificity due to potential cross-reactivity with homologous proteins like FHOD3. Recent studies using FHOD1 antibodies have highlighted its role in invadopodia formation in invasive cancers and its interaction with stress fiber components, reinforcing its importance in cell motility and disease mechanisms.