The JAG1 antibody is designed to target the Jagged-1 (JAG1) protein, a critical ligand in the evolutionarily conserved Notch signaling pathway. JAG1 is a transmembrane protein predominantly expressed on the cell surface, playing a pivotal role in cell-cell communication, differentiation, proliferation, and tissue development. Structurally, it contains a large extracellular domain with multiple epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like repeats and a DSL (Delta/Serrate/Lag-2) domain essential for binding to Notch receptors. Dysregulation of JAG1-mediated Notch signaling has been implicated in various pathologies, including cancers (e.g., breast, liver, leukemia), cardiovascular disorders, and developmental syndromes like Alagille syndrome (caused by JAG1 gene mutations).
JAG1 antibodies are widely utilized in research to detect JAG1 expression levels in tissues or cell lines via techniques such as immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, or flow cytometry. They also serve as tools to modulate Notch signaling in experimental settings, either by blocking ligand-receptor interactions or activating downstream pathways. Clinically, JAG1 antibodies are being explored as potential therapeutic agents, particularly in oncology, where Notch signaling often drives tumor progression and therapy resistance. However, challenges remain in achieving specificity and minimizing off-target effects due to the pathway's complexity and context-dependent roles. Ongoing studies aim to refine antibody design and evaluate their efficacy in preclinical models.