The NDRG1 (N-myc downstream-regulated gene 1) antibody is a crucial tool for studying the NDRG1 protein, a member of the NDRG family involved in diverse cellular processes, including stress response, differentiation, and metastasis suppression. NDRG1 is ubiquitously expressed but shows elevated levels in tissues like the prostate, kidney, and brain. Its expression is regulated by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), metal ions (e.g., iron, nickel), and cellular stressors, linking it to hypoxia-driven pathways and metal metabolism. Research highlights its dual role as both a tumor suppressor and promoter, depending on context. It inhibits metastasis in prostate, breast, and colorectal cancers but may promote progression in pancreatic or liver cancers.
NDRG1 antibodies are widely used in Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect protein expression, localization, and post-translational modifications. They help identify NDRG1’s involvement in diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s), and iron-related conditions. In diagnostics, NDRG1 upregulation in prostate cancer correlates with androgen receptor signaling, making it a potential biomarker. Commercially available antibodies target specific epitopes (e.g., C-terminal regions) and vary by clonality (monoclonal/polyoclonal), requiring validation for experimental consistency. Challenges include cross-reactivity and tissue-specific expression patterns, necessitating careful optimization for accurate interpretation.