Rabbit Polyclonal ERVK-7(N-Term) Antibody

The ERVK-7 (N-Term) antibody is a specialized tool designed to target the N-terminal region of the envelope protein (Env) encoded by the human endogenous retrovirus K (HERV-K) subgroup, specifically HERV-K(HML-7). HERVs are remnants of ancient retroviral infections integrated into the human genome, constituting ~8% of human DNA. While most HERVs are silenced or nonfunctional due to mutations, some, including HERV-K, retain partial activity and have been implicated in physiological processes and diseases, such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurological conditions. The HERV-K Env protein plays roles in immune modulation, cell fusion, and potential oncogenesis. The N-terminal domain of Env is critical for receptor interaction and viral entry mechanisms. The ERVK-7 (N-Term) antibody is commonly used in research to detect HERV-K Env expression via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. It aids in studying HERV-K's contribution to disease pathogenesis, particularly in cancers (e.g., melanoma, breast cancer) and neurodegenerative diseases like ALS. This antibody also helps explore HERV-K's role in immune system interactions, such as triggering autoimmune responses through molecular mimicry. Its development underscores growing interest in endogenous retroviruses as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in human diseases.