The IRX4 antibody is a tool used to detect the Iroquois homeobox protein 4 (IRX4), a transcription factor belonging to the Iroquois (Irx) gene family. This evolutionarily conserved family regulates developmental processes, including organ patterning, cell differentiation, and tissue morphogenesis. IRX4. specifically, is critical in embryonic development, particularly in heart formation, where it influences ventricular chamber specification and cardiac conduction system maturation. It is also expressed in the nervous system, limbs, and other organs during embryogenesis.
In research, the IRX4 antibody aids in studying IRX4's role in normal physiology and disease. For example, aberrant IRX4 expression has been linked to cancers, such as prostate cancer and leukemia, where it may act as an oncogene or tumor suppressor. The antibody is utilized in techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence to localize and quantify IRX4 protein levels in tissues or cells. Commercially available IRX4 antibodies are typically developed in rabbit or mouse hosts, targeting specific epitopes of human or mouse IRX4. Researchers validate these antibodies for specificity and sensitivity to ensure accurate detection, as cross-reactivity with other Irx family members can occur. Studies employing IRX4 antibodies contribute to understanding developmental disorders, cancer mechanisms, and potential therapeutic targets.