The PAX2 antibody is a valuable tool in developmental biology and pathology research, targeting the PAX2 protein encoded by the *PAX2* gene, a member of the paired box (PAX) transcription factor family. PAX proteins are critical for embryonic development, particularly in organogenesis. PAX2 plays a pivotal role in the formation of the kidneys, eyes, ears, and central nervous system by regulating cell differentiation, proliferation, and tissue patterning. Its expression is tightly controlled during development, with downregulation in mature tissues, though reactivation occurs in certain pathological conditions.
In research, PAX2 antibodies are widely used to identify PAX2-expressing cells in immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and Western blot (WB) assays. They help map developmental pathways and study congenital anomalies, such as renal-coloboma syndrome, linked to *PAX2* mutations. Clinically, PAX2 antibodies serve as diagnostic markers in oncology, as PAX2 is aberrantly expressed in cancers like renal cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors. Its re-expression in malignancies highlights its potential role in tumorigenesis and metastasis.
Structurally, PAX2 contains a paired DNA-binding domain and a partial homeodomain, enabling interaction with specific DNA sequences to regulate target genes. Antibodies targeting epitopes within these domains ensure specificity in detecting functional PAX2 isoforms. Researchers must validate PAX2 antibodies for cross-reactivity, as PAX family members (e.g., PAX8) share conserved regions. Overall, PAX2 antibodies bridge developmental biology and clinical diagnostics, offering insights into both normal organogenesis and disease mechanisms.