Interferon Regulatory Factor-5 (IRF5) is a member of the interferon regulatory factor (IRF) family of transcription factors. These transcription factors play crucial roles in the regulation of the immune response, particularly in the production of type I interferons and other cytokines. IRF5 is involved in the innate immune response and has been implicated in various autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis .
IRF5, like other members of the IRF family, contains a DNA-binding domain (DBD) at its N-terminus, which recognizes specific DNA sequences known as interferon-stimulated response elements (ISREs). The C-terminal domain of IRF5 is involved in its regulatory functions, including dimerization and interaction with other proteins. IRF5 can form both homodimers and heterodimers, which can either activate or repress transcription depending on the context .
IRF5 is activated through the Toll-like receptor (TLR) and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) signaling pathway. Upon activation, IRF5 translocates to the nucleus, where it binds to ISREs and promotes the transcription of target genes involved in the immune response .
IRF5 has been shown to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In the case of SLE, IRF5 is involved in the hyperactivation of the immune response, leading to the overproduction of type I interferons and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. This hyperactivation is thought to contribute to the development and progression of SLE .
Studies have also shown that IRF5 is required for the development of SLE-like diseases in murine models. Reducing the activity or expression of IRF5 can inhibit the onset of these diseases, making IRF5 a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of SLE and other autoimmune conditions .
The mouse anti-human IRF5 antibody is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the human IRF5 protein. This antibody is commonly used in various research applications, including Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. The antibody is designed to bind to a specific epitope on the human IRF5 protein, allowing researchers to detect and study the expression and function of IRF5 in different cell types and tissues .