The FEM1A antibody targets the FEM1A protein, a component of the CUL2-RING ubiquitin ligase (CRL2) complex, which plays a role in the ubiquitin-proteasome system for protein degradation. FEM1A, or Feminization-1 Homolog A, is encoded by the *FEM1A* gene and shares structural homology with *Caenorhabditis elegans* FEM-1. a protein involved in sex determination. In humans, FEM1A functions as a substrate recognition subunit within the CRL2 complex, facilitating the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of specific substrates, including misfolded proteins or signaling regulators.
Research highlights FEM1A's involvement in cellular stress responses, apoptosis, and developmental pathways. It interacts with proteins like Argonaute-2 (AGO2) in RNA interference pathways and may regulate Hedgehog signaling by targeting Gli transcription factors. Dysregulation of FEM1A has been linked to diseases such as cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions, where disrupted protein homeostasis contributes to pathogenesis.
The FEM1A antibody is widely used in biomedical research to study protein expression, localization, and molecular mechanisms in these contexts. Applications include Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence, aiding investigations into FEM1A's role in cellular quality control, disease progression, and potential therapeutic targeting. Its specificity and validation across species (e.g., human, mouse) make it a critical tool for exploring ubiquitin-mediated proteostasis.