**Background of TKFC Antibody**
The **triokinase/FMN cyclase (TKFC)** antibody targets the TKFC enzyme, a bifunctional protein encoded by the *TKFC* gene in humans. TKFC plays dual roles in cellular metabolism: it functions as a **triokinase** (phosphorylating glyceraldehyde and dihydroxyacetone phosphate in fructose metabolism) and as **FMN cyclase** (catalyzing the conversion of riboflavin-5'-phosphate to cyclic FMN). TKFC is crucial in nucleotide biosynthesis, mitochondrial function, and maintaining cellular redox balance.
Dysregulation of TKFC is linked to metabolic disorders and mitochondrial diseases. Notably, mutations in *TKFC* are associated with **mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome 7** (MTDPS7), a severe condition characterized by liver dysfunction, neurological deficits, and growth retardation. TKFC also interacts with viral proteins (e.g., hepatitis C virus NS5A), suggesting roles in innate immunity and viral pathogenesis.
TKFC antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and interactions in tissues/cells. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and ELISA to investigate TKFC's involvement in metabolic diseases, viral infections, and cancer. Research continues to explore TKFC as a potential therapeutic target or biomarker for related pathologies.