**Background of KRT18 Antibody**
Keratin 18 (KRT18), a type I intermediate filament protein, is primarily expressed in single-layered epithelial cells (e.g., liver, gastrointestinal tract) and glandular tissues. As a key component of the cytoskeleton, it pairs with Keratin 8 (KRT8) to form filaments that maintain cellular integrity, regulate mechanical stress responses, and participate in cell signaling. KRT18 antibodies are essential tools for detecting this protein in research and diagnostics.
In pathology, KRT18 is a biomarker for epithelial-derived cancers (e.g., carcinomas). Its expression patterns help differentiate tumor subtypes, while cleavage by caspases during apoptosis generates neoepitopes (e.g., M30 antigen), detectable via specific KRT18 antibodies to assess cell death. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, and ELISA. For instance, the M30 antibody detects apoptosis-specific KRT18 fragments, aiding in monitoring chemotherapy response.
KRT18 mutations or aberrant expression are linked to liver diseases (e.g., Mallory-Denk bodies in alcoholic hepatitis) and genetic disorders. Antibodies against phosphorylated KRT18 (e.g., at Ser52) also study stress-induced keratin reorganization.
Variability in antibody clones (e.g., DC10. KS1A3) requires validation for specificity, as epitope differences impact detection in formalin-fixed or frozen samples. Overall, KRT18 antibodies are vital for understanding epithelial biology, disease mechanisms, and developing diagnostic or therapeutic strategies.