GRM2 antibodies are immunological tools designed to target the metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 (mGluR2), a class C G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) encoded by the GRM2 gene. mGluR2 is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system, particularly in presynaptic neurons, where it regulates glutamate neurotransmission by inhibiting cAMP signaling via Gαi/o protein coupling. This receptor plays a critical role in modulating synaptic plasticity, neurodevelopment, and behaviors linked to cognition and emotion. Dysregulation of GRM2 has been implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease, making it a therapeutic target of interest.
GRM2 antibodies are widely used in neuroscience research to detect receptor expression, localization, and function in tissues or cell models. They enable techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Many commercially available GRM2 antibodies are raised in hosts such as rabbits or mice, with specificity validated via knockout (KO) controls or peptide-blocking assays. Challenges include ensuring selectivity against closely related receptors (e.g., mGluR3) due to sequence homology. Researchers rely on these antibodies to explore GRM2's role in disease mechanisms, drug discovery, and receptor trafficking studies. Proper validation is essential to avoid cross-reactivity and ensure reliable data in both preclinical and clinical research contexts.