Mouse Monoclonal NPHS2 Antibody

The NPHS2 antibody targets podocin, a critical protein encoded by the NPHS2 gene, primarily expressed in podocytes of the kidney glomerulus. Podocin plays a vital role in maintaining the glomerular filtration barrier by anchoring the slit diaphragm, a specialized cell-cell junction regulating macromolecule filtration. Mutations in NPHS2 are associated with autosomal recessive steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS), often progressing to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). NPHS2 antibodies are widely utilized in research and diagnostics to detect podocin expression levels, aiding in the identification of genetic or acquired podocyte dysfunction. In clinical settings, these antibodies help differentiate hereditary forms of FSGS from other glomerulopathies. Additionally, studies employ NPHS2 antibodies to investigate podocin's interactions with nephrin, CD2AP, and other slit diaphragm proteins, shedding light on disease mechanisms. Commercially available NPHS2 antibodies include both monoclonal and polyclonal variants, optimized for techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Their specificity is crucial for validating podocyte-specific pathways and evaluating potential therapeutic targets in proteinuric kidney diseases. Recent research also explores podocin's role in lipid raft organization and signaling cascades, further expanding the utility of NPHS2 antibodies in nephrology research.