The TACR2 antibody is a research tool designed to target the tachykinin receptor 2 (TACR2), also known as the neurokinin 2 receptor (NK2R). TACR2 is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that primarily binds neurokinin A (NKA), a peptide belonging to the tachykinin family, which includes substance P and neurokinin B. This receptor is involved in various physiological processes, such as smooth muscle contraction, neurotransmission, and inflammatory responses. It is expressed in the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and reproductive organs, where it modulates functions like pain perception, gut motility, and hormonal regulation.
TACR2 antibodies are used to study receptor localization, expression levels, and signaling mechanisms in both normal and disease contexts. For example, dysregulation of TACR2 has been implicated in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, asthma, and certain cancers. Researchers employ these antibodies in techniques such as immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and flow cytometry to visualize receptor distribution in tissues or quantify protein expression.
The development of TACR2 antibodies has also supported drug discovery efforts, particularly in designing antagonists to block excessive receptor activity linked to pathological states. Validation of these antibodies typically involves knockout controls or competitive binding assays to ensure specificity. Overall, TACR2 antibodies serve as critical tools for unraveling the receptor’s role in health and disease, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets.