PCNA Specific Neutra™ Antibody Products

Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) is a crucial protein found in the nucleus of cells, playing a pivotal role in the regulation of DNA replication and repair. As a processivity factor for DNA polymerase δ, it forms a homotrimeric ring that encircles DNA, ensuring efficient duplication of the genetic material during cell division. Discovered initially as an antigen in proliferating cells, hence its name, PCNA is now recognized for its multifaceted roles in maintaining genomic integrity and cell cycle progression.

Its Gene ID: 5111, UniProtKB ID: P12004, and OMIM ID: 176740.

Functions of PCNA

• DNA Replication: PCNA works as a sliding clamp, enhancing the processivity of DNA polymerase δ by encircling the DNA strand. This allows the polymerase to synthesize large sequences of DNA without dissociating from the template.
• DNA Repair: It is involved in various DNA repair processes, including base excision repair, nucleotide excision repair, and mismatch repair. By interacting with different proteins and enzymes, PCNA coordinates the repair processes to correct DNA damage and maintain genomic stability.
• Cell Cycle Regulation: PCNA interacts with regulatory proteins such as cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) to affect the cell cycle. These interactions aid in regulating the cell cycle's passage through its various phases.

Fig.1 Dual life of PCNA: from nucleus to cytosol.¹

Expression of PCNA

The expression of PCNA is tightly regulated and closely linked to cell proliferation. Its levels are relatively low in quiescent cells (G0 phase) but significantly increase as cells enter the S phase of the cell cycle, reflecting its essential role in DNA replication. The transcription of PCNA is regulated by E2F family transcription factors, which are themselves controlled by Rb (Retinoblastoma protein) and other cell cycle regulators. Additionally, the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation pathways modulate PCNA levels post-translationally, ensuring its availability matches the cell's needs for DNA synthesis and repair.

Role of PCNA in Cancers

PCNA is overexpressed in many cancer types. As cancers are characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation, PCNA's role in facilitating efficient DNA synthesis makes it crucial for tumor growth. Elevated levels of PCNA are often observed in cancerous tissues, highlighting its association with rapid cell division and serving as a potential marker for tumor aggressiveness and prognosis. Moreover, PCNA's involvement in DNA repair mechanisms contributes to the genomic instability that is a hallmark of cancer, enabling mutations that drive cancer progression. Additionally, PCNA helps cancer cells evade apoptosis, particularly in response to DNA damage from chemotherapy or radiation, thereby contributing to treatment resistance. Given these roles, PCNA is not only a valuable biomarker for diagnosing and predicting outcomes in cancer patients but also represents a potential therapeutic target.

Fig.2 PCNA plays an important role in the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation by ferulic acid.²

Antibody Targeting PCNA

The development of antibodies targeting PCNA represents a breakthrough in cancer research and therapeutic intervention. These therapeutic antibodies are designed to either block the interaction of PCNA with its essential partners or to inhibit its activity directly. Besides, they can also be designed to deliver cytotoxic agents specifically to cancer cells expressing high levels of PCNA. It is possible to produce anti-PCNA antibodies with good specificity and affinity, according to several studies. These antibodies have shown promise in preclinical models, effectively inhibiting tumor growth and enhancing the efficacy of existing cancer treatments.

Creative Biolabs offers anti-PCNA antibody products that may be utilized in nearly ten different scientific applications. These high-quality, reproducible recombinant antibodies will help you complete your research more efficiently.

REFERENCES

1. De Chiara, Alessia, et al. "Targeting cytosolic proliferating cell nuclear antigen in neutrophil-dominated inflammation." Frontiers in immunology 3 (2012): 33416.
2. Bao, Xingxun, et al. "Molecular mechanism of ferulic acid and its derivatives in tumor progression." Pharmacological Reports 75.4 (2023): 891-906.