Rabbit Polyclonal STRA8 Antibody

The STRA8 (stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8) antibody is a critical tool for studying germ cell development and meiosis initiation. STRA8 is a retinoic acid (RA)-inducible protein essential for triggering meiosis in mammalian germ cells. It acts as a gatekeeper, translating RA signaling into transcriptional activation of meiotic genes. In males, STRA8 expression is transiently observed in prenatal and postnatal spermatogonia, while in females, it is crucial for coordinating meiotic entry in fetal oocytes. Researchers use STRA8 antibodies primarily to detect and localize the protein in germ cells, enabling investigations into reproductive biology, infertility mechanisms, and disorders of sexual development. These antibodies are particularly valuable in mouse models, where STRA8 knockout leads to meiotic arrest. Common applications include immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and flow cytometry using testicular or ovarian tissues. Recent studies also explore STRA8's potential role in some cancers, expanding its research relevance. When selecting a STRA8 antibody, species specificity (e.g., mouse, human) and validation in knockout controls are crucial considerations for experimental accuracy.