IFITM2 (Interferon-Induced Transmembrane Protein 2) is a member of the IFITM family, which plays critical roles in innate immunity and antiviral defense. These proteins are induced by interferons (IFNs) in response to viral infections, particularly inhibiting the entry of enveloped viruses such as influenza, dengue, and SARS-CoV-2 by disrupting membrane fusion. IFITM2 is localized to endosomal and lysosomal membranes, where it restricts viral replication by altering membrane fluidity or cholesterol trafficking. Beyond its antiviral functions, IFITM2 has been implicated in cancer progression, with studies showing both tumor-promoting and suppressive effects depending on the context. Its overexpression is associated with poor prognosis in certain cancers, potentially linked to enhanced metastasis or therapy resistance.
Antibodies targeting IFITM2 are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and molecular interactions. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry to explore IFITM2's role in viral pathogenesis, immune regulation, and oncogenesis. Commercial IFITM2 antibodies are typically validated for specificity against human or murine proteins, often targeting epitopes within its conserved regions (e.g., the CD225 domain). Researchers rely on these antibodies to investigate post-translational modifications, dimerization, and interactions with viral or host proteins. As IFITM2's dual roles in immunity and disease remain incompletely understood, high-quality antibodies are crucial for advancing mechanistic studies and therapeutic targeting strategies.