Xanthine oxidase (XO) is a key enzyme in purine metabolism, catalyzing the oxidation of hypoxanthine to xanthine and xanthine to uric acid. Elevated XO activity is associated with hyperuricemia, contributing to conditions like gout and kidney stones. XO also generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) during catalysis, linking it to oxidative stress-related pathologies such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Antibodies targeting xanthine oxidase are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in both research and clinical contexts. These antibodies enable the detection and quantification of XO protein levels in tissues, cells, or biological fluids using techniques like Western blotting, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry. They are particularly valuable in investigating XO's role in disease mechanisms, assessing the efficacy of XO inhibitors (e.g., allopurinol, febuxostat), and exploring its potential as a biomarker.
XO antibodies are also used to validate experimental models, such as characterizing XO knockout animals or confirming siRNA-mediated gene silencing. Their specificity ensures accurate measurement of enzyme levels across species, including humans, rodents, and other mammals. Additionally, these antibodies aid in elucidating XO's involvement in pathological processes, such as endothelial dysfunction or inflammation, where ROS overproduction plays a critical role. Overall, xanthine oxidase antibodies serve as indispensable reagents for advancing our understanding of XO biology and its therapeutic targeting.