NELFB (Negative Elongation Factor B), also known as COBRA1. is a critical subunit of the NELF complex (NELF-A, -B, -C/D, and -E), which regulates transcriptional pausing in RNA polymerase II-mediated gene expression. The NELF complex, in conjunction with DSIF (DRB Sensitivity-Inducing Factor), stabilizes paused polymerase complexes near promoters, enabling precise control of gene activation in response to developmental or environmental signals. NELFB plays a structural role in maintaining NELF complex integrity and facilitates interactions with chromatin or other transcriptional regulators.
Research on NELFB antibodies has advanced understanding of its dual roles in transcription and chromatin remodeling. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like ChIP-seq, immunofluorescence, and Western blot to study NELFB's localization, protein-protein interactions, and involvement in diseases. Dysregulation of NELFB is linked to cancers (e.g., breast, lung), neurological disorders, and developmental defects, as it influences cell proliferation, differentiation, and stress responses. For example, NELFB loss can disrupt embryonic stem cell pluripotency or promote oncogenic signaling.
Antibodies targeting NELFB also help explore its non-canonical functions, such as DNA repair modulation or viral defense mechanisms. Commercial NELFB antibodies are typically validated for specificity across human, mouse, and rat models, supporting both basic research and therapeutic discovery. Challenges remain in elucidating tissue-specific NELFB isoforms and post-translational modifications that fine-tune its activity.