Phospho-IKK beta (Tyr188) antibody is a specialized tool used to detect the activated form of IKK beta (Inhibitor of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B Kinase Subunit Beta), a key regulatory component of the IKK complex. This complex, composed of IKK alpha, IKK beta, and the regulatory subunit NEMO (NF-κB Essential Modulator), plays a central role in the NF-κB signaling pathway, which regulates immune responses, inflammation, and cell survival. Phosphorylation of IKK beta at Tyr188 is a critical post-translational modification associated with its activation. Upon stimulation by pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1), pathogens, or stress signals, upstream kinases or autophosphorylation events trigger IKK beta activation, leading to phosphorylation of IκB proteins. This marks IκB for degradation, enabling NF-κB transcription factors to translocate to the nucleus and induce target gene expression.
The Phospho-IKK beta (Tyr188) antibody specifically recognizes the phosphorylated tyrosine residue at position 188. allowing researchers to study IKK beta activation dynamics in various contexts, such as inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. It is widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence to investigate signaling mechanisms in cell lines, tissues, or disease models. Validated specificity for the phosphorylated epitope ensures accurate detection, often confirmed through knockout controls or phosphatase treatment. This antibody is particularly valuable for dissecting NF-κB pathway regulation and evaluating therapeutic interventions targeting IKK beta activity in pathological conditions.