The ACSM5 (Acyl-CoA Synthetase Medium-Chain Family Member 5) antibody is a tool used to detect and study the ACSM5 protein, a member of the acyl-CoA synthetase family. This enzyme family plays a critical role in lipid metabolism by catalyzing the activation of fatty acids into acyl-CoA derivatives, which are essential for energy production, membrane synthesis, and cellular signaling. Specifically, ACSM5 is implicated in the metabolism of medium-chain fatty acids (6–12 carbons), converting them into acyl-CoA esters for subsequent biochemical pathways.
ACSM5 is primarily expressed in tissues with high metabolic activity, such as the liver, gastrointestinal tract, and adipose tissue. Its dysregulation has been linked to metabolic disorders, including obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), as well as certain cancers. For example, studies suggest ACSM5 may act as a tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma by modulating lipid metabolism and cell proliferation.
The ACSM5 antibody is widely used in research applications like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to assess protein expression levels, localization, and interactions. It aids in exploring ACSM5's functional roles in metabolic homeostasis, disease mechanisms, and potential therapeutic targets. Commercial antibodies are typically validated for specificity and sensitivity, though variability in isoforms or post-translational modifications may require careful experimental optimization. Ongoing research continues to clarify its pathophysiological significance across different biological contexts.