Vitronectin (VTN) is a multifunctional glycoprotein found in plasma and the extracellular matrix (ECM), playing critical roles in cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. It also regulates the complement system and coagulation pathways by binding to inhibitors like plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and stabilizing their activity. VTN’s involvement in these processes links it to pathologies such as cancer, inflammation, thrombosis, and fibrosis.
VTN antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and interactions. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA to quantify VTN levels in biological samples or visualize its distribution in tissues. Monoclonal antibodies offer high specificity for distinct epitopes, while polyclonal antibodies detect multiple regions, enhancing sensitivity for diverse applications.
Research using VTN antibodies has elucidated its dual role in disease: promoting tumor progression by supporting cancer cell survival and metastasis via integrin binding, yet offering protective effects in wound healing and vascular repair. Additionally, VTN antibodies aid in exploring its interaction with pathogens (e.g., viruses) that exploit VTN for host cell entry.
In therapeutic contexts, VTN-targeting antibodies are investigated for blocking pathological ECM remodeling or disrupting disease-associated molecular complexes. Their development underscores VTN’s significance as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target in conditions like age-related macular degeneration, fibrosis, and cardiovascular disorders.