CA7 (Carbonic Anhydrase VII) is a member of the carbonic anhydrase enzyme family, which catalyzes the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide to bicarbonate and protons. Primarily expressed in the brain, liver, and gastrointestinal tract, CA7 plays a critical role in pH regulation, ion transport, and metabolic processes. Its dysfunction has been implicated in neurological disorders, including epilepsy, due to its association with acid-base imbalances affecting neuronal excitability.
CA7 antibodies are immunological tools designed to detect and quantify the CA7 protein in research and diagnostic contexts. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA to study CA7 expression patterns, tissue localization, and potential roles in disease mechanisms. For example, studies have linked CA7 mutations to autosomal recessive cerebral calcification and epilepsy, highlighting its importance in neurological health. Additionally, CA7 antibodies aid in exploring its interaction with other proteins and regulatory pathways, offering insights into therapeutic targets.
Recent research also investigates CA7's involvement in cancer, as altered carbonic anhydrase activity may influence tumor microenvironment pH and metastasis. The development of CA7-specific antibodies has enhanced diagnostic precision, enabling the identification of CA7 as a biomarker in certain pathologies. Overall, CA7 antibodies serve as essential reagents for unraveling the enzyme's biological functions and clinical relevance across diverse physiological and pathological conditions.