**Background of Arginase 2 (Arg2) Antibodies**
Arginase 2 (Arg2), a mitochondrial enzyme encoded by the *ARG2* gene, is one of two isoforms (Arg1 and Arg2) that catalyze the hydrolysis of L-arginine to urea and L-ornithine, a critical step in the urea cycle and polyamine biosynthesis. Unlike Arg1. which is cytosolic and liver-specific, Arg2 is expressed in extrahepatic tissues, including kidneys, prostate, and immune cells, and plays roles in modulating cellular processes like proliferation, apoptosis, and immune regulation.
Arg2 has gained attention for its involvement in pathological conditions. Overexpression of Arg2 is linked to endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases, tumor progression via immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment, and metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Its role in depleting extracellular L-arginine, a substrate for nitric oxide synthases (NOS), impacts nitric oxide (NO) production, influencing vascular tone and immune responses.
Arg2-specific antibodies are essential tools for detecting and quantifying Arg2 expression in research. They enable studies on its tissue distribution, subcellular localization, and dysregulation in diseases. Applications include Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Recent studies also explore Arg2 as a therapeutic target, with antibodies aiding in validating inhibitors or gene-silencing approaches.
Overall, Arg2 antibodies are pivotal in elucidating the enzyme’s biological functions and its potential as a biomarker or target in disease contexts.