HPR antibodies target hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT), an enzyme critical to the purine salvage pathway, which recycles purine bases for DNA/RNA synthesis. First identified in the 1960s, HPRT gained prominence due to its role in Lesch-Nyhan syndrome, a rare X-linked genetic disorder caused by HPRT1 gene mutations. This condition manifests as hyperuricemia, neurological dysfunction, and self-injurious behavior, driving extensive research into HPRT's biological functions.
HPR antibodies are primarily used as research tools to detect and quantify HPRT protein expression in studies of purine metabolism, neurobiology, and genetic disorders. They enable investigations into HPRT's tissue-specific expression patterns and its correlation with disease severity. Commercially available HPR antibodies include polyclonal and monoclonal variants, often validated in ELISA, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry applications.
Recent applications extend to cancer research, as altered purine metabolism is linked to tumor progression. HPRT inhibition or deficiency may influence chemotherapy responsiveness. However, cross-reactivity with similar enzymes (e.g., TPRT) requires careful antibody validation. Ongoing efforts focus on improving antibody specificity and developing therapeutic antibodies for targeted interventions in metabolic disorders. HPR antibodies remain vital for both basic research and translational studies bridging enzymology and human disease.