The Goosecoid (GSC) antibody is a critical tool in developmental biology and biomedical research, targeting the Goosecoid protein encoded by the *GSC* gene. Discovered in the early 1990s, Goosecoid is a transcription factor belonging to the homeobox gene family, playing a pivotal role in embryonic development, particularly in establishing the organizer region during gastrulation. It regulates cell fate determination, tissue patterning, and craniofacial morphogenesis by modulating downstream genes involved in cell migration and differentiation.
GSC antibodies are widely used to detect and localize the Goosecoid protein in various experimental models, including vertebrates like mice, zebrafish, and Xenopus. These antibodies enable researchers to study protein expression dynamics via techniques such as immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Their application has shed light on developmental abnormalities, congenital disorders, and cancer, where dysregulation of GSC is linked to tumor progression and metastasis.
Commercial and custom GSC antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, with validation emphasizing specificity through knockout controls or peptide-blocking assays. Despite their utility, challenges remain in cross-reactivity across species and ensuring consistent performance in diverse tissue contexts. Ongoing research continues to refine these tools, enhancing their reliability for both basic science and clinical diagnostics.