FRL2 Antibody

Introduction to FRL2 (Folate Receptor 2, FOLR2) and Its Antibody

FRL2, commonly referred to as Folate Receptor 2 (FOLR2), is a 38 kDa glycoprotein that mediates the cellular uptake of dietary folates and reduced folates. It is anchored to the cell membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) linkage and is predominantly expressed in the placenta, neutrophils, and certain hematopoietic progenitor cells . FOLR2 is also upregulated in pathological conditions, including myeloid leukemias, head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, and chronic inflammatory sites such as rheumatoid arthritis synovium .

The FOLR2 antibody (e.g., AF5697, R&D Systems) is a polyclonal antibody raised against human FOLR2, enabling detection and characterization of this receptor in research settings. Below is a detailed analysis of its structure, function, applications, and research findings.

Molecular Structure

FOLR2 is an N-glycosylated protein with a GPI anchor, distinguishing it from the transmembrane FOLR1. Key features include:

• Molecular Weight: ~38 kDa .

• Binding Specificity: Binds folic acid and reduced folates with high affinity, facilitating their internalization into cells.

• Tissue Distribution: Expressed in placental tissue, neutrophils, macrophages, and monocytes at inflammatory sites .

Biological Roles

FOLR2 plays critical roles in:

1. Folate Metabolism: Supports nucleotide synthesis, methionine interconversion, and histidine breakdown .

2. Cancer Progression: Overexpression in tumors enhances folate uptake, promoting rapid cell division .

3. Immune Regulation: Modulates macrophage and dendritic cell function in inflammatory environments .

Detection Methods

The FOLR2 antibody is validated for:

Research Use Cases

1. Cancer Biology: Analyzing FOLR2 overexpression in tumor tissues to assess therapeutic targets.

2. Inflammatory Diseases: Investigating FOLR2 upregulation in macrophages at chronic inflammation sites .

3. Placental Development: Studying FOLR2’s role in folate transport during gestation.

Expression Patterns

FOLR2 exhibits tissue-specific and disease-associated expression:

Antibody Performance

The FOLR2 antibody (AF5697) demonstrates:

• Specificity: No cross-reactivity with non-target proteins in Western blot .

• Sensitivity: Detects FOLR2 in low-abundance samples, such as neutrophil lysates .

• Versatility: Compatible with multiple detection systems (e.g., HRP-conjugated secondary antibodies) .

Table 1: Antibody Characteristics

Table 2: FOLR2 Expression in Pathological Contexts