Ferritin heavy chain (FTH1) is a key subunit of the ferritin protein complex, essential for intracellular iron storage and homeostasis. Ferritin, composed of 24 subunits of heavy (FTH1) and light (FTL) chains, forms a nanocage structure that sequesters excess iron in a non-toxic, bioavailable form, protecting cells from oxidative damage. FTH1 possesses ferroxidase activity, enabling iron oxidation (Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺) for safe storage. Dysregulation of FTH1 expression is linked to iron-related disorders, including anemia, neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s), and cancer, where iron metabolism often supports tumor growth.
Antibodies targeting FTH1 are critical tools for studying iron metabolism, protein localization, and disease mechanisms. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and immunofluorescence (IF) to quantify FTH1 levels, assess tissue-specific iron distribution, or investigate pathological iron accumulation. Commercial FTH1 antibodies are typically raised against epitopes in conserved regions, ensuring cross-reactivity across human, mouse, and rat samples. Validation often involves knockout controls or iron-modulation experiments to confirm specificity.
Research applications include exploring FTH1's dual role in cancer (pro-tumorigenic vs. tumor-suppressive) and its involvement in ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death pathway. Additionally, FTH1 antibodies aid in diagnosing iron overload conditions (e.g., hemochromatosis) and monitoring therapeutic responses in preclinical models. Their utility underscores FTH1's importance as both a biomarker and a functional mediator in cellular iron biology.