The DCTN2 antibody targets the DCTN2 protein, a key component of the dynactin complex, which plays a critical role in intracellular transport. Dynactin, a multi-subunit complex, works with cytoplasmic dynein to regulate microtubule-based motility of organelles, vesicles, and chromosomes. DCTN2 (Dynactin Subunit 2), also known as p50 or dynamitin, stabilizes the dynactin structure and mediates interactions between dynein, cargo adaptors, and microtubules. Dysregulation of DCTN2 is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), cancer metastasis, and ciliopathies due to disrupted transport mechanisms.
DCTN2 antibodies are widely used in research to study dynactin function, protein-protein interactions, and disease mechanisms. They enable detection of DCTN2 expression levels via Western blotting, immunofluorescence localization in cellular compartments, and immunoprecipitation to identify binding partners. Studies using these antibodies have revealed DCTN2's role in mitosis, neuronal trafficking, and cellular signaling pathways. Additionally, DCTN2 overexpression or mutations are linked to impaired axonal transport in motor neurons and chromosomal instability in cancers. These insights highlight DCTN2 as a potential therapeutic target, driving ongoing research into its pathological and physiological roles.