BIRC6 (baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein 6), also known as Apollon, is a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family, characterized by its role in regulating programmed cell death. It is the largest human IAP protein, containing both a BIR (Baculovirus IAP Repeat) domain and a ubiquitin-conjugating (UBC) domain, enabling it to function as an E3 ubiquitin ligase. BIRC6 primarily inhibits apoptosis by targeting key pro-apoptotic proteins, such as caspases and SMAC/DIABLO, for proteasomal degradation via ubiquitination. Its dual role in apoptosis suppression and cellular homeostasis makes it critical in development, tissue maintenance, and cancer progression.
BIRC6 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and interactions in both physiological and pathological contexts. Overexpression of BIRC6 has been linked to chemotherapy resistance and poor prognosis in various cancers, including glioblastoma, colorectal, and breast cancers. Antibodies targeting BIRC6 are used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to assess its levels in tumor samples, aiding in biomarker discovery and therapeutic targeting research. Additionally, BIRC6 antibodies contribute to understanding its non-apoptotic roles, such as regulating autophagy and mitophagy. Recent studies explore BIRC6 as a potential therapeutic target, with antibodies aiding in validating strategies like RNA interference or small-molecule inhibitors to sensitize cancer cells to treatment.