Flotillin-1. encoded by the *FLOT1* gene, is a conserved, ubiquitously expressed protein belonging to the lipid raft-associated flotillin family. It localizes to membrane microdomains (lipid rafts) and intracellular vesicles, playing roles in membrane trafficking, signal transduction, and scaffolding of protein complexes. Structurally, Flotillin-1 contains a prohibitin homology (PHB) domain and forms oligomers, facilitating its interaction with membranes and partner proteins like Flotillin-2. It participates in clathrin-independent endocytosis, cell adhesion, and receptor signaling, and is implicated in pathological processes including cancer metastasis, neurodegeneration, and viral entry.
Flotillin-1 antibodies are critical tools for studying its expression, localization, and function. Commonly used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation, these antibodies help detect Flotillin-1’s molecular weight (~47-50 kDa) and assess its upregulation in cancers (e.g., breast, liver) or dysregulation in neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease). Both polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies are available, with specificity validated via knockout controls. Commercial antibodies often target epitopes in the N-terminal region. Research applications include exploring lipid raft dynamics, endocytic pathways, and Flotillin-1’s role as a biomarker or therapeutic target. Variability in antibody performance across species or experimental conditions necessitates careful validation.