The IFNA8 antibody is a research tool designed to detect and study interferon-alpha 8 (IFNA8), a member of the type I interferon (IFN) family. IFNA8 is encoded by the *IFNA8* gene and shares structural and functional similarities with other IFN-α subtypes, which are critical cytokines involved in antiviral immunity, immune regulation, and antitumor responses. These proteins signal through the IFN-α/β receptor (IFNAR), activating JAK-STAT pathways to induce interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that mediate diverse biological effects.
IFNA8-specific antibodies are developed to distinguish IFNA8 from other IFN-α subtypes due to their high sequence homology (~70-80% amino acid identity). Such antibodies are typically validated for applications like Western blotting, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, or flow cytometry, enabling researchers to explore IFNA8 expression, localization, and function in cellular and tissue contexts. Studies using IFNA8 antibodies may focus on its role in viral infections (e.g., HIV, hepatitis), autoimmune diseases, or cancer, where type I IFNs modulate immune cell activity or tumor microenvironment responses.
The antibody’s utility also extends to translational research, including monitoring IFNA8 levels in clinical samples or evaluating therapeutic IFN-α formulations. However, cross-reactivity with other IFN-α subtypes remains a technical challenge, emphasizing the need for rigorous validation. Commercial IFNA8 antibodies are often produced in hosts like rabbits or mice, using recombinant IFNA8 protein as immunogens. Their development supports ongoing efforts to dissect subtype-specific IFN signaling, which may inform targeted therapies for diseases involving dysregulated interferon pathways.