The EIF2AK2 antibody targets the protein kinase EIF2AK2. also known as PKR (Protein Kinase R), a critical regulator of innate immunity and cellular stress responses. EIF2AK2 is a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-dependent serine/threonine kinase activated during viral infections, inflammation, or oxidative stress. Upon binding viral or endogenous dsRNA, EIF2AK2 dimerizes and autophosphorylates, leading to its activation. This kinase phosphorylates the alpha subunit of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 (eIF2α), halting global protein synthesis to limit viral replication while selectively promoting translation of stress-response genes, such as ATF4.
EIF2AK2 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, activation, and interaction partners in pathways like NF-κB and apoptosis. Researchers use these antibodies in techniques like Western blot, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to explore EIF2AK2's roles in antiviral defense, tumor suppression, and neurodegenerative diseases. Dysregulation of EIF2AK2 has been linked to cancer, chronic inflammation, and Alzheimer’s disease, making its antibody valuable for diagnostic and therapeutic research. Commercial EIF2AK2 antibodies are typically validated for specificity across human, mouse, and rat samples, with some targeting phosphorylated forms (e.g., Thr451/Thr446) to assess activation status. Understanding EIF2AK2's dual role in cell survival and death continues to drive interest in targeting this kinase for drug development.