The Histone H3 (acetylated at lysine 18) [H3(acK18)] antibody is a critical tool for studying epigenetic regulation linked to gene expression and chromatin dynamics. Histone H3 is a core component of nucleosomes, and post-translational modifications, such as acetylation at specific lysine residues (e.g., K18), play pivotal roles in modulating chromatin structure and transcriptional activity. Acetylation of H3K18 neutralizes the positive charge of lysine, reducing histone-DNA interactions and promoting an open chromatin state conducive to transcriptional activation. This modification is dynamically regulated by histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and deacetylases (HDACs).
The H3(acK18) antibody specifically detects the acetylated form of histone H3 at lysine 18. enabling researchers to investigate its spatial and temporal distribution in cellular processes. It is widely used in techniques like chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), immunofluorescence, and Western blotting to map epigenetic patterns, study gene regulation, and explore roles in development, differentiation, and disease. Aberrant H3K18 acetylation has been implicated in cancers, neurological disorders, and aging, making this antibody valuable for both basic research and clinical studies. Its specificity is validated using knockout controls or peptide competition assays to ensure accurate detection. By tracking H3K18ac dynamics, this antibody aids in unraveling how epigenetic changes influence cellular identity and disease mechanisms.