The Phospho-MEK4 (Ser80) antibody is a specialized tool used to detect the activated form of MEK4 (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase 4), a key signaling molecule in the MAPK pathway. MEK4. also known as MKK4 or MAP2K4. functions as a dual-specificity kinase that phosphorylates and activates downstream c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs) in response to cellular stress, cytokines, or growth factors. Its activity is tightly regulated by phosphorylation at specific residues, including Ser80. which lies within its N-terminal regulatory domain. Phosphorylation at Ser80 is associated with MEK4 activation, facilitating its role in mediating stress-induced apoptosis, cell differentiation, and immune responses.
This antibody specifically recognizes MEK4 when phosphorylated at Ser80. enabling researchers to study the activation status and temporal dynamics of MEK4 in various biological contexts. It is widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to investigate MEK4 signaling in diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Dysregulation of MEK4-JNK signaling has been linked to tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance to therapy, making this antibody a critical tool for exploring therapeutic targets. Validation typically includes testing in knockout cell lines or phosphatase-treated samples to confirm specificity. Its applications extend to both basic research and preclinical studies aiming to dissect MAPK pathway mechanisms or evaluate drug efficacy targeting this cascade.