The ENPP7 (Ectonucleotide Pyrophosphatase/Phosphodiesterase 7) antibody is a tool used to study the ENPP7 protein, a member of the ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase family. ENPP7. also known as alkaline sphingomyelinase, is a membrane-bound enzyme primarily expressed in the intestinal tract and liver. It hydrolyzes dietary sphingomyelin into ceramide and phosphocholine, playing a critical role in lipid metabolism and maintaining intestinal barrier function. Its activity is implicated in regulating cell proliferation, inflammation, and cholesterol absorption, with potential links to colorectal cancer, metabolic disorders, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
ENPP7 antibodies are widely utilized in research to detect protein expression, localization, and function via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. They help elucidate ENPP7's physiological roles and dysregulation in pathologies. Recent studies highlight ENPP7's involvement in gut microbiota interactions and its potential as a biomarker for gastrointestinal cancers. However, antibody specificity remains a challenge due to structural similarities within the ENPP family. Validated antibodies are essential for distinguishing ENPP7 from homologous proteins like ENPP1-3. Ongoing research aims to refine antibody performance and explore therapeutic targeting of ENPP7 in metabolic or neoplastic diseases.