The RASGEF1A antibody is a tool used to detect and study the RasGEF Domain Family Member 1A (RASGEF1A) protein, which belongs to the Ras guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) family. These proteins regulate Ras signaling pathways by catalyzing the exchange of GDP for GTP, activating Ras GTPases involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. RASGEF1A, specifically, has been implicated in immune responses, neuronal development, and cancer progression, though its precise mechanisms remain under investigation.
The antibody is typically generated in hosts like rabbits or mice using immunogenic peptides or recombinant protein fragments unique to RASGEF1A. It is validated for applications such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and flow cytometry. Validation often includes specificity checks via knockout controls or siRNA knockdown to confirm minimal cross-reactivity with homologous proteins.
Commercial RASGEF1A antibodies are available as monoclonal or polyclonal variants, with some conjugated to markers like HRP or fluorescent dyes for enhanced detection. Researchers use these antibodies to explore RASGEF1A’s role in diseases, such as its potential tumor-suppressive functions or associations with neurological disorders. Proper validation and optimization for each experimental setup are critical, as variability in protein expression levels or post-translational modifications can affect results. Storage conditions and dilution protocols vary by product, requiring adherence to manufacturer guidelines for optimal performance.