MYC antibodies are essential tools in cancer research and molecular biology, targeting the MYC family of proto-oncogenes (c-MYC, N-MYC, and L-MYC). These genes encode transcription factors that regulate cell proliferation, metabolism, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of MYC proteins, particularly c-MYC, is implicated in over 50% of human cancers due to amplifications, translocations, or aberrant signaling pathways. MYC antibodies are widely used to detect MYC expression levels in tissues or cell lines via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and flow cytometry. They also facilitate studying MYC’s functional roles through chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) or co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP).
Researchers must select antibodies validated for specific applications, as MYC isoforms and post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation) can affect detection. For example, the 9E10 clone recognizes human c-MYC epitopes and is commonly used, but cross-reactivity with other MYC family members or species variations may occur. Proper controls, such as MYC knockout cell lines, are critical to confirm specificity.
Beyond research, MYC antibodies hold diagnostic potential. Elevated MYC levels correlate with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis, making them biomarkers for cancer stratification. Therapeutic targeting of MYC remains challenging, but antibodies may aid in drug development or as companion diagnostics. Despite their utility, variability in antibody performance across experimental conditions underscores the need for rigorous validation to ensure reproducibility in studies.