Estrogen-related receptor alpha (ERRα), encoded by the ESRRA gene, is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of transcription factors. Although structurally related to estrogen receptors (ERs), ERRα does not bind natural estrogens. It regulates genes involved in diverse metabolic pathways, mitochondrial biogenesis, energy homeostasis, and cellular differentiation. ERRα is highly expressed in tissues with elevated energy demands, such as the heart, skeletal muscle, and brain, and plays critical roles in adaptive responses to metabolic stress. Dysregulation of ERRα has been implicated in cancer progression, metabolic disorders (e.g., obesity, diabetes), and neurodegenerative diseases.
ERRα antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and molecular interactions. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Specific antibodies target distinct epitopes (e.g., N-terminal, C-terminal domains) to assess protein levels, post-translational modifications, or DNA-binding activity. Validation via knockout controls or siRNA is crucial due to potential cross-reactivity with homologous receptors (ERRβ/γ).
Research utilizing ERRα antibodies has advanced understanding of its role in tumor metabolism, where it drives aerobic glycolysis and lipogenesis in cancers. These antibodies also aid in exploring ERRα as a therapeutic target, with inhibitors under investigation for cancer and metabolic diseases. Reliable antibodies remain pivotal for unraveling ERRα's complex regulatory networks and translational potential.