COLEC12 (Collectin Subfamily Member 12), also known as CL-P1 (collectin placenta 1), is a transmembrane protein belonging to the C-type lectin superfamily. It functions as a pattern recognition receptor (PRR) in innate immunity, binding to pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) like lipopolysaccharides and promoting phagocytosis. Structurally, it contains a collagen-like domain, a neck region, and a carbohydrate-recognition domain (CRD). COLEC12 is expressed in vascular endothelial cells, placental tissue, and immune cells, playing roles in host defense, inflammation modulation, and cellular clearance.
Antibodies targeting COLEC12 are primarily used in research to investigate its expression, localization, and functional mechanisms. They aid in studying its involvement in atherosclerosis, cancer metastasis, and bacterial/viral infections. For example, COLEC12 antibodies have been applied in immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and Western blotting to explore its interaction with pathogens or oxidized lipids in vascular diseases. Recent studies also suggest its potential as a therapeutic target, with antibodies being tested for modulating immune responses or drug delivery. However, its precise physiological and pathological roles remain under investigation, necessitating further validation of antibody specificity and functional assays.