Fatty acid-binding protein 3 (FABP3), also known as heart-type FABP (H-FABP), is a small cytoplasmic protein primarily expressed in cardiac and skeletal muscle, as well as in specific brain regions. It belongs to the FABP family, which facilitates intracellular transport of fatty acids and regulates lipid metabolism, signaling, and gene expression. FABP3 plays a critical role in energy homeostasis by binding long-chain fatty acids and shuttling them to mitochondria for β-oxidation.
FABP3 has gained attention as a biomarker for myocardial injury, as it is rapidly released into circulation during cardiac ischemia. Additionally, it is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, due to its involvement in neuronal lipid metabolism and synaptic dysfunction. In cancer, altered FABP3 expression has been linked to tumor progression and metastasis.
FABP3 antibodies are essential tools for detecting and quantifying the protein in research and diagnostics. They are widely employed in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and ELISA to study FABP3's expression patterns, subcellular localization, and interactions in both physiological and pathological contexts. Commercial FABP3 antibodies are typically raised against conserved epitopes, with validation in specific applications and species. Researchers must select antibodies based on target isoforms, cross-reactivity, and compatibility with assay conditions. Recent studies also utilize FABP3 antibodies to explore its dual role in lipid regulation and disease mechanisms, highlighting its therapeutic potential.