The UQCRQ (Ubiquinol-Cytochrome c Reductase Complex III Subunit Q) antibody is a crucial tool for studying the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), specifically targeting subunit Q of Complex III (cytochrome bc1 complex). Complex III plays a pivotal role in oxidative phosphorylation by transferring electrons from ubiquinol to cytochrome c, coupled with proton pumping across the mitochondrial inner membrane. UQCRQ, a 9.5 kDa nuclear-encoded protein, is essential for Complex III assembly and stability. Dysregulation of UQCRQ has been linked to mitochondrial disorders, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases, making it a biomarker of interest in metabolic and pathological studies.
UQCRQ antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect protein expression, localization, and interactions. They aid in investigating mitochondrial dysfunction, energy metabolism alterations, and therapeutic responses in diseases like glioblastoma or Leigh syndrome. Validated antibodies often undergo specificity checks using knockout controls or siRNA knockdowns. Researchers also utilize these antibodies to explore UQCRQ's role in apoptosis, ROS production, and its interplay with other ETC components. Commercial availability from multiple suppliers ensures broad accessibility for both basic and clinical research applications.