The EMP2 (Epithelial Membrane Protein 2) antibody targets a protein belonging to the transmembrane 4 superfamily (TM4SF), also known as the tetraspanin family. EMP2 is a cell surface glycoprotein involved in membrane organization, cell signaling, and adhesion. It plays roles in regulating integrin activity, modulating immune responses, and influencing lipid raft composition. Dysregulation of EMP2 has been linked to pathologies such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and viral infections. In oncology, EMP2 overexpression is observed in certain cancers (e.g., glioblastoma, breast, and ovarian cancers), where it promotes tumor progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
EMP2 antibodies are primarily used as research tools to study protein expression, localization, and function in vitro and in vivo. They enable detection of EMP2 in tissues or cell lines via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Recently, EMP2-targeting antibodies have gained therapeutic interest, particularly in cancer immunotherapy. Preclinical studies explore their potential to block EMP2-mediated signaling pathways or deliver cytotoxic agents to EMP2-expressing cells. Additionally, EMP2 antibodies may aid in diagnosing autoimmune conditions, as EMP2 interacts with autoantigens in diseases like lupus.
Despite promising applications, research remains in early stages, with ongoing efforts to clarify EMP2's mechanistic roles and optimize antibody specificity for clinical translation.