Mouse Monoclonal MUC5B Antibody

The MUC5B antibody is a critical tool for studying the MUC5B mucin, a high-molecular-weight glycoprotein predominantly expressed in mucosal tissues, including respiratory epithelia, salivary glands, and the female reproductive tract. MUC5B is a key component of the mucus layer, contributing to lubrication, pathogen trapping, and mucociliary clearance. Its dysregulation is implicated in pathologies such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic bronchitis. The MUC5B gene, located on chromosome 11p15.5. encodes a protein with cysteine-rich, glycosylated regions critical for forming hydrogel-like mucus structures. Antibodies targeting MUC5B are designed to recognize specific epitopes, enabling researchers to localize and quantify MUC5B expression in tissues (e.g., via immunohistochemistry) or biological fluids (e.g., ELISA, Western blot). Notably, a genetic variant in the MUC5B promoter (rs35705950) is strongly associated with IPF, driving interest in MUC5B as a biomarker and therapeutic target. Commercial MUC5B antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, with validated reactivity across human and other species. Recent studies highlight its role in pathological mucus plugs in severe respiratory infections, including COVID-19. However, challenges remain in ensuring antibody specificity due to MUC5B's structural complexity and homology with other mucins.