The CLTB (Clathrin Light Chain B) antibody is a crucial tool in studying clathrin-mediated intracellular trafficking. Clathrin, a triskelion-shaped protein complex, comprises three heavy chains (CLTC) and associated light chains (CLTA or CLTB). CLTB regulates clathrin assembly, membrane curvature, and interactions with accessory proteins during vesicle formation. It plays a key role in endocytosis, synaptic vesicle recycling, and organelle biogenesis.
CLTB antibodies enable detection and localization of the light chain B isoform in cells and tissues, distinguishing it from CLTA. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to investigate clathrin's function in physiological processes such as receptor internalization, nutrient uptake, and neurotransmitter release. Dysregulation of clathrin dynamics is linked to neurological disorders, cancer, and viral entry mechanisms, making CLTB antibodies valuable in disease-related research.
Commercial CLTB antibodies are typically raised against conserved epitopes, ensuring cross-reactivity in human, mouse, and rat models. Recent studies also utilize them to explore clathrin-light-chain-specific roles in autophagy and cell signaling pathways. Validation via knockout controls is essential due to potential cross-reactivity with CLTA. Their application continues to advance understanding of membrane trafficking networks at molecular and cellular levels.