PCNA Antibody

Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) is a critical protein involved in DNA replication and repair. It acts as a processivity factor for DNA polymerase δ in eukaryotic cells, forming a homotrimeric ring that encircles DNA and slides along it, thereby anchoring DNA polymerases and other DNA editing enzymes .

PCNA is a homotrimer, meaning it consists of three identical subunits that form a ring-like structure. This toroidal shape allows it to encircle DNA and slide bi-directionally along the duplex . PCNA is essential for the processivity of DNA polymerases during DNA replication, ensuring that the polymerase remains attached to the DNA template . Additionally, PCNA plays a crucial role in DNA repair mechanisms, acting as a scaffold to recruit proteins involved in these processes .

PCNA is ubiquitously expressed in proliferating cells across various tissues. Its expression is tightly regulated and peaks during the S phase of the cell cycle, where DNA replication occurs . The presence of PCNA is often used as a marker for cell proliferation in both normal and neoplastic tissues .

PCNA’s primary function is to enhance the processivity of DNA polymerases during DNA replication. It also plays a significant role in DNA repair pathways, including base excision repair and translesion synthesis . In response to DNA damage, PCNA is ubiquitinated, which facilitates the recruitment of DNA repair proteins . This modification allows PCNA to coordinate DNA replication with DNA repair and damage tolerance pathways .

The regulation of PCNA involves multiple layers, including transcriptional control, post-translational modifications, and interactions with other proteins. PCNA is synthesized in the early G1 and S phases of the cell cycle . Post-translational modifications, such as ubiquitination, play a crucial role in modulating PCNA’s function in DNA repair .

The mouse anti-human PCNA antibody is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets the PCNA protein. This antibody is widely used in research to study cell proliferation and DNA replication . It is particularly useful in immunohistochemistry (IHC), western blotting (WB), and immunofluorescence (IF) applications . The antibody can detect PCNA in various species, including humans, mice, and rats .

The mouse anti-human PCNA antibody is a valuable tool for studying the proliferative status of cells in both normal and pathological conditions. It is commonly used to assess cell proliferation in cancer research, as PCNA is often overexpressed in tumor cells . Additionally, this antibody is used to investigate the mechanisms of DNA replication and repair, providing insights into the molecular processes underlying these essential cellular functions .