The GATA4 antibody is a widely used tool in molecular and developmental biology research, targeting the GATA4 transcription factor—a critical regulator of tissue-specific gene expression. Belonging to the GATA family of zinc finger proteins, GATA4 binds to DNA motifs containing the consensus sequence "GATA," playing essential roles in embryonic development, particularly in cardiac morphogenesis, gut formation, and gonadal differentiation. It also regulates genes involved in cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation in adult tissues.
GATA4 antibodies are typically produced in hosts like rabbits or mice using immunogenic peptides derived from conserved regions of the human or mouse GATA4 protein. These antibodies enable detection and localization of GATA4 in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Validated antibodies show specificity for GATA4 over other GATA family members (e.g., GATA6) to avoid cross-reactivity.
In research, GATA4 antibodies help investigate congenital heart defects, reproductive disorders, and cancers (e.g., ovarian, testicular, and lung tumors) where GATA4 expression is dysregulated. They also aid in studying cellular reprogramming and organoid development. Proper validation using knockout controls or siRNA-mediated knockdown is critical, as off-target signals can arise due to protein homology. Commercial antibodies often provide data on species reactivity, application suitability, and recommended dilutions to ensure reproducibility.