The ELF3 antibody targets the E74-like factor 3 (ELF3), a transcription factor belonging to the ETS family, characterized by a conserved DNA-binding ETS domain. ELF3. also termed ESE-1 or ERT, regulates gene expression involved in epithelial cell differentiation, proliferation, and tissue development, particularly in organs like the intestine, skin, and exocrine glands. It interacts with pathways such as TGF-β and Wnt, influencing cellular responses to stress and inflammation.
In cancer, ELF3 exhibits dual roles: it acts as an oncogene in certain contexts (e.g., promoting tumor growth in pancreatic or ovarian cancers) or as a tumor suppressor (e.g., inhibiting progression in bladder or liver cancers). Its dysregulation is linked to epithelial-derived malignancies, making it a biomarker of interest.
ELF3 antibodies are widely used in research to detect protein expression and localization via techniques like Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. However, variability in reported ELF3 expression levels across studies highlights challenges in antibody specificity, epitope recognition, and tissue-context differences. Validating antibodies using knockout controls or orthogonal methods is critical to ensure reliability. These tools remain essential for elucidating ELF3's roles in development, homeostasis, and disease mechanisms. (Word count: 199)