MDFIC (MyoD Family Inhibitor Domain-Containing) antibodies are immunological tools used to study the MDFIC protein, a member of the MyoD family inhibitor (MDFI) protein family. MDFIC, also known as HIC-5 (hydrogen peroxide-inducible clone-5) or ARA55 (androgen receptor-associated protein 55), is a multifunctional adaptor protein involved in transcriptional regulation, cell adhesion, and signal transduction. It contains multiple protein-protein interaction domains, including LIM domains, enabling interactions with transcription factors (e.g., androgen receptor, Smads), kinases, and cytoskeletal components. MDFIC regulates pathways like TGF-β, Hippo, and steroid hormone signaling, influencing cell proliferation, differentiation, and stress responses.
MDFIC antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to detect MDFIC expression, localization, and post-translational modifications. They help investigate MDFIC’s roles in physiological processes (e.g., wound healing, fibrosis) and diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and fibrotic conditions. Studies highlight MDFIC’s dual roles as a tumor suppressor or promoter, depending on cellular context. Researchers also utilize these antibodies to explore MDFIC’s involvement in mechanotransduction and extracellular matrix remodeling. Validated MDFIC antibodies are critical for ensuring specificity, given the protein’s homology with other LIM domain-containing proteins and its multiple isoforms generated by alternative splicing.