Cortactin (CTTN), encoded by the *CTTN* gene, is a multifunctional scaffolding protein involved in regulating cytoskeletal dynamics, cell adhesion, and membrane protrusion. It contains an N-terminal acidic domain, tandem cortactin repeats that bind F-actin, a proline-rich motif for interacting with SH3 domain-containing proteins, and a C-terminal SH3 domain. CTTN plays critical roles in cell migration, invasion, and vesicle trafficking by promoting actin polymerization and branching through interactions with the ARP2/3 complex. Overexpression or hyperactivation of CTTN is frequently observed in various cancers (e.g., breast, head and neck, colorectal), correlating with enhanced metastatic potential and poor prognosis.
CTTN-specific antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation at Y421. S405/S418) in physiological and pathological contexts. These antibodies enable detection via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Researchers use CTTN antibodies to explore its role in cancer progression, neuronal development, and immune cell functions. Commercial antibodies often target epitopes within the N-terminal region or cortactin repeats. Validation is critical, as CTTN shares homology with its neuronal paralog, cortactin-like (CTTNBP2). Dysregulated CTTN signaling has also been implicated in cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders, broadening its research relevance.