TCN1 antibodies target the Transcobalamin I protein, encoded by the TCN1 gene. This protein binds vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in serum and biological fluids, facilitating its transport and protecting it from degradation in acidic environments . Antibodies against TCN1 are critical for:
Quantifying TCN1 expression in tissues (e.g., cancer vs. normal).
Investigating its role in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance.
Developing diagnostic and prognostic assays.
TCN1 antibodies are utilized across multiple experimental platforms:
Chemosensitivity: Low TCN1 expression in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) predicts better response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) (p < 0.001) .
Immune Modulation: TCN1 interacts with immune checkpoints (e.g., CD276) and chemokines (CXCL1, CXCL5), suggesting roles in immune cell recruitment .
TCN1 antibodies have identified the protein as a dual-function biomarker:
TCN1 (Transcobalamin-1) is a vitamin B12-binding protein that regulates cobalamin homeostasis. It plays multiple roles in maintaining basic functions of cell metabolism and proliferation, particularly in hematopoiesis and neural development . The protein has a reported length of 433 amino acid residues and a mass of approximately 48.2 kDa in humans . It is known to bind vitamin B12 with femtomolar affinity and protects it from the acidic environment of the stomach .
Recent studies have shown elevated TCN1 expression in various cancer types, including lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), colon cancer, hypopharyngeal squamous cell cancer, breast cancer, and gastric cancers, suggesting its potential role as a biomarker in cancer research . The overexpression of TCN1 in tumor tissues has been linked to tumorigenesis and poor biological behavior, making it a promising target for cancer research .
TCN1 antibodies are utilized in several research applications:
The most widely used application is Western Blot, followed by ELISA and Immunohistochemistry . The appropriate application depends on the specific research question being addressed.
When selecting a TCN1 antibody, consider the following factors:
Species reactivity: Ensure the antibody recognizes TCN1 in your species of interest (common options include Human, Mouse, Rat)
Clonality: Monoclonal antibodies offer high specificity for a single epitope, while polyclonal antibodies recognize multiple epitopes and may provide stronger signals
Application validation: Verify the antibody has been validated for your specific application (WB, IHC, ELISA, etc.)
Host species: Choose a host species that won't cross-react with other antibodies in your experimental design
Epitope recognition: For specialized experiments, consider antibodies recognizing specific domains of TCN1
Rigorous validation using positive and negative controls is essential to ensure antibody specificity and reliability in your experimental system.