CER1 antibody targets Cerberus 1 (CER1), a secreted protein belonging to the Cerberus/DAN family, which plays critical roles in embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. CER1 acts as an antagonist of BMP (bone morphogenetic protein) and Wnt signaling pathways, regulating cell differentiation and morphogenesis during early embryogenesis. It is particularly important in the formation of anterior visceral endoderm, left-right asymmetry, and germ layer patterning. Dysregulation of CER1 has been implicated in developmental disorders and certain cancers, making it a subject of interest in developmental biology and oncology research.
CER1 antibodies are widely used in studies exploring embryonic stem cell differentiation, organogenesis, and cancer progression. They enable detection of CER1 expression via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF), aiding in the visualization of its spatial and temporal distribution in tissues. Additionally, these antibodies are employed to investigate CER1's interaction with signaling molecules, such as BMP4 and Wnt ligands, to elucidate its inhibitory mechanisms.
Commercial CER1 antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, targeting specific epitopes within the protein's cysteine-rich domain. Validation includes testing for specificity in knockout models or siRNA-treated cells. Researchers utilize these tools to uncover CER1's potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target, particularly in cancers where its expression correlates with tumor suppression or metastasis.