The ABC (ATP-binding cassette) transporters are a superfamily of transmembrane proteins which play an essential role in membrane transport in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. In humans, ABC transporters have been implicated in many conditions. For example, ABCA1 antibody research has shown mutations in the ABCA1 gene can cause Tangier disease, while the ABCB family causes multiple drug resistance. We at Novus Biologicals have a large antibody database of ABC transporters and related proteins, for a variety of species and applications.
ABC transporters use energy harnessed from ATP hydrolysis, to carry out a range of functions, including the translocation of lipids, drugs and metabolic substrates across intracellular and extracellular membranes. However, research has also shown that some proteins do not have a membrane transport function but play other roles within the cell, such as DNA repair and RNA translation.
In prokaryotes, ABC transporter proteins may be either importers (mediating uptake of nutrients) or exporters (removing drugs and toxins). In eukaryotes, the majority are exporter proteins. However, not all the ABC transporters on our antibody database play a direct role in transport. CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator), for example, uses ATP hydrolysis to regulate opening and closing of ion channels.
ABC transporters are classified according to their ATP-binding domains. There are 48 known ABC transporters in humans, divided into seven subfamilies. ABCA1 antibody research has revealed this protein plays a major role in homeostasis, regulating efflux of phospholipids and cholesterol to apolipoproteins such as apo-A1, reversing formation of foam cells and promoting HDL formation. The ABCA family contains some of the largest ABC transporters - in excess of 2100 amino acids.
Novus Biologicals offers ABCA1 reagents for your research needs including:
