Heparanase-1 (HPSE1) is an endo-β-glucuronidase enzyme that cleaves heparan sulfate (HS), a key component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell surface glycocalyx. By degrading HS, heparanase regulates ECM remodeling, facilitates cell migration, and releases growth factors and cytokines bound to HS chains, influencing processes like angiogenesis, inflammation, and metastasis. Overexpression of heparanase-1 is associated with tumor progression, autoimmune diseases, and diabetic nephropathy, making it a therapeutic target.
Heparanase-1 antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and functional roles. These antibodies are widely used in techniques such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to detect heparanase-1 in tissues or cell lines. Some antibodies inhibit enzymatic activity, enabling research into therapeutic interventions. Monoclonal antibodies targeting heparanase-1 are also explored for diagnostic applications, such as identifying heparanase-rich tumors, or for therapeutic use in blocking HS degradation to limit disease progression.
Despite their utility, antibody specificity and cross-reactivity with heparanase-2 (an inactive homolog) require careful validation. Ongoing research focuses on developing isoform-specific antibodies and optimizing their clinical applicability in cancer immunotherapy and anti-inflammatory therapies.