VANGL Antibodies

VANGL antibodies are designed to detect VANGL (Van Gogh-Like) proteins, which are key components of the planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway. This pathway is responsible for the coordinated orientation of cells within the plane of a tissue, crucial for processes like tissue development, cell migration, and neural tube formation. There are two isoforms in mammals: VANGL1 and VANGL2.

Applications of VANGL Antibodies:

• Neural Tube Defect (NTD) Research:Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, have been linked to mutations or dysregulation of VANGL genes. Researchers utilize VANGL antibodies to study the molecular mechanisms leading to these defects, helping to identify how alterations in PCP signaling can result in developmental abnormalities. 
• Cancer Biology:Aberrant expression of VANGL proteins has been associated with the promotion of metastasis in various cancers. VANGL antibodies are employed to investigate how altered PCP signaling might contribute to cancer cell invasion and metastasis. 
• Cell Migration and Polarity:VANGL proteins play a role in controlling cell polarity and directional migration. In vitro studies using VANGL antibodies allow researchers to monitor changes in cell polarity and migration patterns, particularly in epithelial cells. These studies are relevant to understanding wound healing, immune cell function, and cancer cell behavior.

Research and Clinical Relevance:

• Developmental Disorders: Mutations in VANGL1 and VANGL2 genes are associated with conditions like craniorachischisis and other neural tube defects. Studying VANGL expression and function with specific antibodies allows researchers to understand the genetic and molecular basis of these disorders, facilitating the development of genetic screening tools and potential therapeutic strategies.
• Cancer Metastasis: VANGL proteins are involved in processes that allow cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant sites. By targeting VANGL with antibodies, researchers can investigate its role in promoting invasive cell behaviors, which could lead to the identification of biomarkers or targets for therapeutic intervention.
• Cell Polarity Disorders: Disruption of cell polarity can lead to a variety of diseases, including ciliopathies, polycystic kidney disease, and cancer. VANGL antibodies are crucial for studying the underlying mechanisms of cell polarity disorders, offering insights into the pathways that maintain cellular organization and function.

VANGL antibodies serve as essential tools in the study of planar cell polarity, neural tube development, and cancer biology. By providing the means to examine the expression, localization, and interactions of VANGL proteins, these antibodies help elucidate the complex signaling networks that govern cellular orientation and movement.