The eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit F (EIF3F) is a critical component of the EIF3 complex, which regulates the initiation phase of protein synthesis in eukaryotes. As part of the multi-subunit EIF3 complex, EIF3F plays a role in ribosome assembly, mRNA recruitment, and scanning for the start codon. Beyond its canonical function in translation, EIF3F has been implicated in diverse cellular processes, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and stress response. Dysregulation of EIF3F expression is associated with cancers, viral infections, and neurological disorders, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic or diagnostic target.
EIF3F antibodies are essential tools for studying the expression, localization, and function of EIF3F in biological systems. These antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunoprecipitation to investigate EIF3F's role in health and disease. Studies have shown that EIF3F exhibits both tumor-suppressive and oncogenic properties depending on cellular context, with reduced expression observed in certain cancers (e.g., melanoma, lung cancer) and elevated levels in others (e.g., hepatocellular carcinoma). This duality underscores the importance of context-specific research using validated antibodies. Challenges remain in distinguishing EIF3F from homologous subunits (e.g., EIF3A) due to structural similarities, necessitating rigorous antibody validation. Current research focuses on clarifying EIF3F's extra-translational roles and its interplay with signaling pathways like PI3K/AKT/mTOR.