TMPRSS11B, a member of the type II transmembrane serine protease (TTSP) family, is encoded by the *TMPRSS11B* gene located on human chromosome 4q13.3. These proteases are characterized by a transmembrane domain, a stem region, and a C-terminal catalytic domain, and are involved in proteolytic processing of proteins, cell signaling, and tissue homeostasis. TMPRSS11B is primarily expressed in epithelial tissues, including the respiratory tract, and may play roles in mucosal defense, viral entry facilitation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Its enzymatic activity is regulated by endogenous inhibitors like hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor (HAI-1/2).
Antibodies targeting TMPRSS11B are valuable tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in physiological and pathological contexts. They are used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry to explore its role in diseases like cancer, respiratory infections, and inflammatory disorders. For instance, TMPRSS11B has been implicated in SARS-CoV-2 infection due to its potential to cleave viral spike proteins, similar to TMPRSS2. However, its precise mechanisms remain less characterized compared to other TTSPs. Research-grade antibodies are typically validated for specificity using knockout controls to minimize cross-reactivity with homologous proteases. Therapeutic applications, such as neutralizing antibodies to block protease activity, are under exploration but require further validation. Challenges include optimizing antibody selectivity and understanding isoform-specific functions, given the gene’s alternative splicing variants. Overall, TMPRSS11B antibodies are critical for elucidating its biological significance and translational potential.