The CCN4 antibody targets the Cellular Communication Network Factor 4 (CCN4), also known as Wnt1-inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1). CCN4 is a member of the CCN family of matricellular proteins, which regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and tissue repair. Structurally, CCN4 contains conserved domains enabling interactions with extracellular matrix components, growth factors, and cell surface receptors like integrins. It is implicated in developmental processes, fibrosis, and cancer, where it often promotes tumor growth, metastasis, and therapy resistance by modulating Wnt/β-catenin, Akt, and other signaling pathways.
CCN4 antibodies are essential tools for detecting and studying the protein's expression, localization, and function in both physiological and pathological contexts. In research, they are used in techniques such as ELISA, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry to explore CCN4's role in diseases like cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, and osteoarthritis. Therapeutically, neutralizing antibodies are being investigated to block CCN4's oncogenic or profibrotic activities, offering potential for targeted treatments. However, challenges remain in optimizing antibody specificity, delivery, and minimizing off-target effects. Current studies also focus on understanding CCN4's dual roles, as it may exhibit context-dependent pro- or anti-tumor behaviors. Overall, CCN4 antibodies represent both a research asset and a promising avenue for developing novel biologics against fibrosis and malignancies.