DCTN3 (Dynactin subunit 3), also known as p22 or dynactin-3. is a critical component of the dynactin complex, a multi-protein structure essential for regulating dynein-driven intracellular transport along microtubules. This 22 kDa protein interacts with other dynactin subunits, such as p150(glued) (DCTN1), to stabilize the complex and mediate cargo binding. The dynactin-dynein motor system plays vital roles in mitosis, organelle trafficking, and neuronal axonal transport.
DCTN3 antibodies are valuable tools for studying intracellular transport mechanisms and their dysregulation in diseases. Mutations in dynactin components have been linked to neurodegenerative disorders like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Perry syndrome, where impaired retrograde transport contributes to neuronal degeneration. Additionally, DCTN3's involvement in transcriptional regulation through interactions with RNA polymerase II suggests potential roles in cancer biology, particularly in glioblastoma.
These antibodies enable detection of DCTN3 expression patterns, protein-protein interactions, and subcellular localization via techniques like Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. Recent studies also explore DCTN3's non-canonical functions in nuclear processes, expanding its relevance beyond traditional cytoskeletal roles. As research progresses, DCTN3 antibodies continue to support investigations into both fundamental cell biology and disease mechanisms.