**Background of HSPA4 Antibody**
HSPA4 (Heat Shock Protein Family A member 4), also known as HSPH1 or APG-2. is a member of the HSP110 family, a subgroup of molecular chaperones within the heat shock protein (HSP) superfamily. It plays a critical role in protein homeostasis by assisting in protein folding, preventing aggregation, and facilitating the refolding of misfolded proteins under stress conditions such as heat shock, hypoxia, or oxidative stress. HSPA4 is predominantly localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and cytosol, where it interacts with other chaperones like HSP70 and HSP90 to regulate proteostasis.
Studies highlight its dual role: while it supports cell survival during stress, dysregulated HSPA4 expression is linked to cancer progression, neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune disorders. In cancers, HSPA4 is often overexpressed, promoting tumor cell proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to therapy by inhibiting apoptosis and enhancing ER stress adaptation.
HSPA4 antibodies are essential tools for detecting and quantifying HSPA4 expression in research. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to study HSPA4 localization, protein interactions, and its role in disease mechanisms. These antibodies (e.g., rabbit or mouse monoclonal/polyclonal) are also employed to explore HSPA4’s potential as a therapeutic target, particularly in oncology. Research continues to unravel its complex regulatory networks and clinical relevance in stress-related pathologies.