Understanding NXPH4 Antibody: Functions, Applications, and Research

What is NXPH4?

NXPH4 (Neurexophilin 4) is a secreted glycoprotein that belongs to the neurexophilin family, known for its role in synaptic function and neuronal communication (NCBI). NXPH4 is primarily expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and is believed to modulate neuronal activity and synapse stability (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke).

Role of NXPH4 in Cellular Function

NXPH4 interacts with neurexins, which are presynaptic cell adhesion molecules critical for synaptic formation and plasticity (National Center for Biotechnology Information). Emerging research suggests a role for NXPH4 in cognitive functions, neurodevelopmental disorders, and synaptic signaling (National Institutes of Health).

NXPH4 and Disease Associations

Neurodevelopmental Disorders – NXPH4 has been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia, as disruptions in synaptic signaling pathways can lead to cognitive and behavioral deficits (National Institute of Mental Health).
Neurodegenerative Diseases – Studies indicate that NXPH4 could play a role in Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, particularly in synaptic loss and dysfunction (National Institute on Aging).
Neuropsychiatric Disorders – Variants of NXPH4 have been linked to bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, making it a potential biomarker for psychiatric conditions (National Human Genome Research Institute).

Applications of NXPH4 Antibody

1. Western Blotting

NXPH4 antibodies are essential tools for detecting protein expression levels in the brain and neuronal tissues (Harvard Medical School).

2. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) & Immunofluorescence

These antibodies help identify NXPH4 distribution in brain tissues, making them crucial for neuroanatomical studies (Stanford University).

3. ELISA & Flow Cytometry

NXPH4 antibodies are used in quantitative protein assays and cell sorting applications to understand its interaction with other synaptic proteins (Johns Hopkins University).

4. Co-Immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) Studies

NXPH4 antibodies enable researchers to investigate protein-protein interactions with neurexins and synaptic receptors (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory).

Where to Source NXPH4 Antibodies?

Researchers can obtain validated antibodies from the following repositories:

NIH Antibody Database (NIH)
Antibody Registry (antibodyregistry.org)
Protein Atlas (proteinatlas.org)
Addgene Plasmid Repository (Addgene)

Recent Advances in NXPH4 Research

Genetic and Epigenetic Studies

CRISPR-based genome editing has provided insights into NXPH4 gene regulation and its effects on synaptic plasticity (Broad Institute).

Therapeutic Targeting

Studies are exploring the potential of NXPH4 in neuroprotective drug development for treating neurodegenerative diseases (National Institute on Aging).

Computational Neuroscience Approaches

AI-based models are being used to predict NXPH4’s role in neuronal connectivity and synaptic modulation (MIT CSAIL).

Future Directions for NXPH4 Research

Neurodevelopmental Research – Further studies on NXPH4’s role in synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development).
Drug Discovery – Investigating small molecule modulators that can regulate NXPH4 activity (FDA Drug Development).
Neural Circuitry Studies – Using NXPH4 antibodies in advanced imaging techniques to visualize its synaptic localization (National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering).

Conclusion

NXPH4 is a critical glycoprotein involved in synaptic organization, neurodevelopment, and cognitive function. The availability of NXPH4-specific antibodies has significantly advanced research in neurology, psychiatry, and neurodegeneration. For more authoritative information, visit NCBI, NIH, and NIA.

References

Understanding NXPH4 Antibody: Functions, Applications, and Research