TSEN15 (tRNA splicing endonuclease subunit 15) is a critical component of the tRNA splicing endonuclease complex, which is essential for the maturation of precursor tRNAs (pre-tRNAs) in eukaryotic cells. This complex, composed of catalytic subunits TSEN2. TSEN34. TSEN54. and the non-catalytic TSEN15. recognizes and cleaves intronic sequences from pre-tRNAs during their processing. TSEN15 plays a structural role in stabilizing the complex and facilitating its interaction with the CLP1 kinase, which is involved in tRNA splicing and RNA metabolism.
Mutations in TSEN15 are linked to pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 2B (PCH2B), a severe neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by progressive brain atrophy, microcephaly, and motor deficits. Research on TSEN15 antibodies focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying tRNA splicing defects and their contribution to neurodegenerative pathologies. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry to detect TSEN15 expression, study its localization, and assess interactions within the tRNA splicing machinery.
TSEN15 antibodies also aid in diagnosing PCH-related disorders and in preclinical studies exploring therapeutic interventions. Their development underscores the importance of understanding tRNA processing in both basic cellular biology and disease contexts.