The UTF1 (Undifferentiated Embryonic Cell Transcription Factor 1) antibody is a tool used to study the UTF1 protein, a transcription regulator highly expressed in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and germ cells. UTF1 belongs to the PUFF (PGC/ESC-specific UTF-1 Associated Factor) family and plays a role in chromatin remodeling, transcriptional regulation, and maintaining pluripotency. It interacts with key pluripotency factors like Oct4. Sox2. and Nanog, and is implicated in modulating gene silencing and chromatin dynamics during early development. UTF1 expression decreases upon differentiation, suggesting its role in preserving the undifferentiated state of stem cells.
The UTF1 antibody is widely used in techniques such as chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), immunofluorescence (IF), and Western blotting (WB) to investigate pluripotency mechanisms, epigenetic regulation, and cellular reprogramming. It helps identify UTF1 binding sites on DNA, revealing its involvement in repressing developmental genes in ESCs. Studies also link UTF1 to Polycomb repressive complexes, highlighting its role in histone modification (e.g., H2AK119ub1) and gene silencing.
Additionally, UTF1 antibodies are utilized in cancer research, as UTF1 is abnormally expressed in certain tumors, potentially influencing oncogenesis. Researchers rely on its specificity for human, mouse, or other species to explore UTF1's dual role in stem cell biology and disease contexts. Its application advances understanding of early development, epigenetic landscapes, and regenerative medicine strategies.