The RIC8A antibody is a tool used to detect and study RIC8A (Resistance to Inhibitors of Cholinesterase 8A), a conserved guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) critical in G-protein signaling. RIC8A interacts with Gα subunits, facilitating GDP release and promoting G-protein activation, particularly in pathways involving Gαi/o and Gαq. This protein plays essential roles in embryonic development, cell division, polarity establishment, and neurotransmitter signaling. Studies in model organisms, such as *Drosophila* and *C. elegans*, highlight its importance in asymmetric cell division and neural development, with RIC8A deficiency often leading to embryonic lethality or developmental defects.
RIC8A antibodies, typically generated in rabbits or mice using recombinant protein fragments or synthetic peptides, are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation. They help researchers investigate RIC8A's expression, localization, and interactions in various tissues and cellular contexts. Dysregulation of RIC8A has been implicated in neurological disorders and cancer, making these antibodies valuable for exploring disease mechanisms. As RIC8A's role in G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling continues to emerge, its antibody remains a key reagent for dissecting complex signaling networks and potential therapeutic targets. Commercial antibodies are often validated for specificity and cross-reactivity across species, including human, mouse, and rat.