The DISP2 (Dispatched homolog 2) antibody is a tool used to study the DISP2 protein, a member of the Dispatched family involved in lipid-modified protein trafficking. DISP2 plays a critical role in the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, which regulates embryonic development, tissue homeostasis, and cancer progression. Specifically, Dispatched proteins facilitate the release and transport of lipid-anchored Hedgehog ligands (e.g., SHH, IHH) from producing cells to target tissues. Unlike DISP1. which is primarily associated with SHH signaling, DISP2 is implicated in the secretion of Indian Hedgehog (IHH) and may have tissue-specific functions, particularly in skeletal and gastrointestinal systems.
The DISP2 antibody is utilized to detect and quantify DISP2 expression in various experimental models, including Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Researchers employ it to investigate DISP2's role in Hh pathway regulation, its interaction with other pathway components (e.g., Patched, Smoothened), and its dysregulation in diseases such as cancers, developmental disorders, and metabolic conditions. Commercial DISP2 antibodies are typically validated for specificity using knockout (KO) controls or siRNA knockdown to ensure minimal cross-reactivity with DISP1 or unrelated proteins.
Current studies focus on DISP2's potential as a therapeutic target, given its involvement in tumor microenvironment signaling and stem cell maintenance. However, its precise mechanisms remain under exploration, necessitating reliable tools like the DISP2 antibody to advance understanding of its biological and pathological contributions.