The Regulator of G-protein Signaling 11 (RGS11) is a member of the RGS protein family, which plays a critical role in modulating G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathways. RGS11 acts as a GTPase-activating protein (GAP) for Gα subunits, accelerating the hydrolysis of GTP to GDP and thereby terminating G-protein-mediated signaling. It is particularly enriched in the nervous system, including retinal neurons, where it forms complexes with other proteins like RGS7 and R9AP to regulate phototransduction and synaptic transmission. RGS11 is implicated in visual processing, neurotransmitter release, and neuronal plasticity, making it a key player in sensory and cognitive functions.
Antibodies targeting RGS11 are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and functional interactions. These antibodies enable researchers to detect RGS11 in tissues (e.g., retina, brain) via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. They have been instrumental in elucidating RGS11’s role in physiological processes and pathological conditions, such as retinal degeneration and neurological disorders. Commercial RGS11 antibodies are typically raised in hosts like rabbits or mice, using immunogenic peptide sequences unique to RGS11. Validation steps, including knockout controls, ensure specificity. Challenges include cross-reactivity with homologous RGS proteins (e.g., RGS7), necessitating careful experimental design. Overall, RGS11 antibodies advance our understanding of GPCR signaling mechanisms and their therapeutic targeting.