IKZF1 (Ikaros Family Zinc Finger 1) is a transcription factor encoded by the *IKZF1* gene, belonging to the IKAROS family of DNA-binding proteins. It plays a critical role in lymphoid development, particularly in regulating the differentiation and function of B and T lymphocytes. Structurally, IKZF1 contains zinc finger domains that mediate DNA binding and protein interactions, enabling its role in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation of genes involved in cell cycle control, immune response, and hematopoiesis.
Antibodies targeting IKZF1 are primarily utilized in research and diagnostics to study its expression, localization, and functional alterations in diseases. In clinical contexts, IKZF1 dysregulation is linked to hematologic malignancies, especially B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), where deletions or mutations in *IKZF1* are associated with poor prognosis and chemotherapy resistance. IKZF1 antibodies help detect these aberrations via techniques like immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, or Western blotting. Additionally, they aid in exploring IKZF1's role in autoimmune disorders and immune dysregulation syndromes.
Recent studies also highlight IKZF1's potential as a therapeutic target. For example, immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) like lenalidomide indirectly degrade IKZF1 in certain cancers, underscoring its clinical relevance. Overall, IKZF1 antibodies serve as essential tools for unraveling its biological functions and translational applications in oncology and immunology.