PNK (Polynucleotide Kinase) or PNKP (Polynucleotide Kinase Phosphatase) antibodies are essential tools in studying DNA repair mechanisms. PNKP is a bifunctional enzyme with 3′-phosphatase and 5′-kinase activities, critical for processing DNA damage breaks during base excision repair (BER) and single-strand break repair (SSBR). It resolves incompatible DNA termini (e.g., 3′-phosphate or 5′-hydroxyl groups) to enable ligation. Dysregulation of PNKP is linked to neurological disorders, cancer, and radiation sensitivity.
PNKP antibodies, developed against specific epitopes of the protein, are widely used in research to detect PNKP expression, localization, and function. They facilitate techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation. Studies employing these antibodies have revealed PNKP’s role in maintaining genomic stability and its interaction with repair proteins like XRCC1. Mutations in PNKP are associated with autosomal recessive diseases, including microcephaly, seizures, and ataxia.
Additionally, PNKP antibodies aid in exploring therapeutic targets, as PNKP inhibitors are investigated for sensitizing cancer cells to radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Their application extends to diagnostic research, where altered PNKP levels may serve as biomarkers for neurodegenerative conditions or cancer progression. Overall, these antibodies are pivotal in elucidating DNA repair pathways and developing targeted therapies.