The EN1 antibody targets the Engrailed-1 (EN1) protein, a transcription factor encoded by the *EN1* gene, which belongs to the homeobox gene family. EN1 plays a critical role in embryonic development, particularly in the patterning of the midbrain-hindbrain region, limb development, and neural tube closure. It regulates gene expression by binding to specific DNA sequences, influencing cell differentiation and tissue organization. Dysregulation of EN1 has been implicated in developmental disorders and cancers, including medulloblastoma, neuroblastoma, and basal cell carcinoma, where it may drive tumorigenesis or metastasis.
EN1 antibodies are widely used in research to detect EN1 protein expression via techniques like immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, or immunofluorescence. These tools help map EN1 distribution in tissues, study its role in developmental pathways (e.g., Wnt and Hedgehog signaling), and explore its oncogenic potential. EN1 is evolutionarily conserved across vertebrates, with homologs in model organisms like mice (*En1*) and zebrafish, enabling comparative studies. Recent work also investigates EN1's involvement in stem cell maintenance and regeneration.
As a biomarker, EN1 expression may correlate with disease prognosis or therapeutic resistance. However, its functional duality—acting as both a developmental regulator and potential oncogene—underscores the need for context-specific research. Commercial EN1 antibodies are typically validated for specificity and sensitivity, though variations in isoforms or post-translational modifications require careful experimental design. Overall, EN1 antibodies remain vital for unraveling the protein's biological and pathological significance.