TARDBP Antibodies

TARDBP antibodies are designed to specifically target the TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), which is encoded by the TARDBP gene. TDP-43 is a multifunctional RNA-binding protein that plays a crucial role in RNA metabolism, including transcriptional regulation, splicing, and RNA transport. Pathologically, TDP-43 is known for its association with neurodegenerative disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). 

Content

TDP-43 is a protein primarily localized in the nucleus, where it binds to RNA and DNA to regulate several aspects of RNA processing. It is involved in the regulation of gene expression, alternative splicing, and mRNA transport. Under normal conditions, TDP-43 shuttles between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. However, in neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and FTLD, TDP-43 undergoes abnormal phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and cleavage, leading to the formation of cytoplasmic aggregates and loss of normal nuclear function. 

Application

TARDBP antibodies are used in various research and diagnostic techniques, including:

• Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Used to visualize the distribution of TDP-43 within tissue sections, particularly in the brain and spinal cord. IHC is essential for identifying TDP-43-positive inclusions in affected neurons, a hallmark of ALS and FTLD, aiding in disease diagnosis and research.
• Immunofluorescence (IF): Allows for the detailed observation of TDP-43 at the cellular level, providing insights into its subcellular localization, aggregation patterns, and interactions with other cellular components. IF is used to study TDP-43 mislocalization and aggregation under different experimental conditions.
• Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Utilized for quantifying TDP-43 protein levels in biological samples, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum. ELISA assays can be useful for biomarker research, potentially aiding in the early diagnosis of TDP-43-related neurodegenerative disorders.

These applications make TARDBP antibodies vital tools for advancing the understanding of TDP-43’s functions in cellular homeostasis and its involvement in neurodegenerative diseases. They support research into the molecular mechanisms underlying ALS and FTLD, providing a foundation for developing therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing TDP-43 aggregation and restoring its normal cellular functions.