The AHCY antibody targets adenosylhomocysteinase (AHCY), also known as S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase, a key enzyme in the methionine cycle. AHCY catalyzes the reversible hydrolysis of S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) to homocysteine and adenosine, regulating cellular levels of SAH, a potent inhibitor of methyltransferases. These enzymes mediate methylation reactions critical for DNA/RNA modification, protein function, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Dysregulation of AHCY activity disrupts methylation homeostasis, linked to conditions like cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.
AHCY antibodies are essential tools for studying its expression, localization, and function in research. They enable detection via techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence, aiding investigations into AHCY's role in cellular metabolism and disease mechanisms. Studies highlight AHCY's involvement in epigenetic regulation, oxidative stress responses, and cell proliferation. Its overexpression in certain cancers and reduced activity in neurological disorders underscores its therapeutic potential.
Structurally, AHCY forms a homotetramer requiring NAD+ as a cofactor, and antibodies often target conserved regions to ensure specificity. Current research focuses on developing inhibitors to modulate AHCY activity for therapeutic applications. Reliable AHCY antibodies remain vital for advancing biomarker discovery and understanding methylation-related pathologies.