ACKR1 Antibodies

ACKR1 antibodies are specific to the Atypical Chemokine Receptor 1 (ACKR1), also known as the Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC). ACKR1 is a glycoprotein expressed on the surface of red blood cells, endothelial cells, and epithelial cells. It functions as a non-signaling chemokine receptor, scavenging chemokines to regulate inflammatory responses. ACKR1 is also known for its role as the Duffy blood group antigen, which is significant in malaria research, as it serves as a receptor for Plasmodium vivax, one of the parasites that causes malaria. 

Content

ACKR1 binds to a broad range of chemokines, including CXC and CC chemokines, without initiating traditional G-protein-coupled signaling pathways. Instead, it sequesters these chemokines, thereby modulating their availability and controlling the intensity of immune cell recruitment during inflammation. Additionally, ACKR1 is highly expressed on the surface of red blood cells, where it functions as the Duffy blood group antigen. Genetic variations in the ACKR1 gene can influence susceptibility to certain diseases, such as malaria and inflammatory conditions. 

Application

ACKR1 antibodies are applied in several research and diagnostic techniques, including:

• Western Blotting (WB): Used to detect and quantify ACKR1 protein in cell and tissue samples. WB can help assess the expression levels of ACKR1 under different physiological and pathological conditions, such as in inflammatory diseases and malaria.
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Employed to visualize the localization and distribution of ACKR1 in tissue sections, particularly in blood vessels and red blood cells. IHC with ACKR1 antibodies is critical for studying its role in chemokine regulation and endothelial function.
• Immunofluorescence (IF): Allows for the detailed observation of ACKR1 on cell surfaces, providing insights into its subcellular localization and interactions. IF can be used to study the role of ACKR1 in chemokine scavenging and its involvement in immune cell trafficking.

ACKR1 antibodies are crucial tools for advancing research in immunology, infectious diseases, and hematology. They enable the exploration of how ACKR1 regulates chemokine availability, influences immune responses, and affects susceptibility to infections like malaria. Additionally, studying ACKR1 expression can provide insights into the development of therapeutic strategies for conditions involving excessive inflammation or immune cell recruitment.