The TCF21 antibody is a crucial tool in studying the role of Transcription Factor 21 (TCF21), a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor implicated in organ development and disease. TCF21. also known as Pod1 or Capsulin, regulates cell differentiation and lineage commitment, particularly in mesenchymal cells during embryogenesis. It is essential for the development of organs like the heart, kidneys, and lungs, where it influences cell fate decisions and tissue patterning. In adulthood, TCF21 is linked to pathological processes, including cancer, fibrosis, and atherosclerosis, where its expression often correlates with tumor suppression or disease progression.
Researchers use TCF21 antibodies primarily in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to detect protein expression, localization, and dynamics in tissues or cell lines. These antibodies are vital for investigating TCF21's regulatory mechanisms, such as its interaction with epigenetic modifiers or its role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Commercially available TCF21 antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, validated for specificity via knockout controls, and optimized for various sample types. Recent studies highlight TCF21's potential as a biomarker in cancers (e.g., lung, breast) or cardiovascular diseases, driving interest in therapeutic targeting. However, variability in antibody performance across experimental conditions necessitates careful validation to ensure reproducibility in research.