The SRD5A2 antibody targets steroid 5-alpha reductase type 2. an enzyme encoded by the SRD5A2 gene. This enzyme plays a critical role in steroid metabolism, specifically converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent androgen essential for male sexual development and function. SRD5A2 is predominantly expressed in androgen-sensitive tissues, including the prostate, testes, and skin.
Antibodies against SRD5A2 are widely used in research to study its expression, localization, and regulation in normal physiology and disease. Mutations in SRD5A2 cause 5-alpha reductase deficiency, a rare disorder characterized by undervirilization in genetic males, making the antibody a key tool for diagnosing this condition. Additionally, SRD5A2 is implicated in pathologies such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostate cancer, and hirsutism, where dysregulated DHT synthesis drives disease progression.
In laboratory settings, SRD5A2 antibodies are employed in techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and ELISA to assess protein levels in tissue samples or cell lines. These studies help elucidate the enzyme’s role in androgen signaling pathways and evaluate therapeutic interventions targeting SRD5A2. such as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride). The antibody’s specificity and reliability are crucial for advancing research in endocrinology, oncology, and reproductive medicine.