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GFAP

GeneName

GFAP

Summary

GFAP, or glial fibrillary acidic protein, is a 50 kDa intermediate filament protein primarily expressed in astrocytes, where it plays a pivotal role in maintaining the structural integrity of the cytoskeleton. It is localised in various cellular components, including the cytoplasm, cell body, and astrocyte end-feet. GFAP is involved in several biological processes, such as astrocyte development, extracellular matrix organisation, and the regulation of neurotransmitter uptake. Additionally, it contributes to neuron projection regeneration and the differentiation of Bergmann glial cells, highlighting its importance in both astrocyte function and neuronal support.

Importance

GFAP is relevant to: - Neurodegenerative diseases, as its expression is often upregulated in response to central nervous system injury or disease, serving as a marker for astrogliosis. - The study of astrocyte function and their role in synaptic plasticity, which is crucial for understanding learning and memory. - Research into the mechanisms of neuroinflammation, given its involvement in the regulation of inflammatory responses in the brain. - Developmental biology, particularly in the context of glial cell differentiation and function in the nervous system.

Top Products

For researchers investigating GFAP, we recommend two excellent primary antibodies that cater to a variety of applications. The first is the highly regarded polyclonal antibody, Anti-GFAP antibody - Astrocyte Marker (ab7260), which has garnered an impressive 1532 citations, underscoring its reliability in the field. This antibody is particularly effective for immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunocytochemistry (ICC), western blotting (WB), and immunoprecipitation (IP).In addition, we offer the recombinant antibody, Anti-GFAP antibody [EPR1034Y] - Astrocyte Marker (ab68428). This product has been validated for use in IHC, ICC, WB, flow cytometry (FC), and IP, making it a versatile choice for researchers seeking consistent performance across multiple applications. With 168 citations, it is also gaining recognition within the research community. Together, these antibodies provide robust options for studying GFAP in various experimental contexts. The Human GFAP Matched Antibody Pair Kit (ab222279), supported by 6 citations, is an excellent option for researchers looking to accurately measure GFAP levels in their samples.

Abcam Product Citation Summary

The data indicates a significant focus on GFAP in various contexts related to neurobiology, particularly in studies involving astrocyte activation, neuroinflammation, and neurogenesis. The use of GFAP antibodies spans multiple species, predominantly Mus musculus and Rattus norvegicus, highlighting its relevance in both basic and translational research. Applications include immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and western blotting (WB), suggesting a comprehensive approach to studying GFAP's role in different neurological conditions and responses.

Abcam Product Citation Table

ab16997
Mouse
IHC-IF
Voluntary exercise and neurogenesis
29203796
ab190288
Mouse
IHC-IF
Nurr1 expression in astrocytes
32188741
ab4648
Mouse
IHC
Intermittent hypoxia and neurotrophic factor expression
31877583
ab4674
Rat
WB
Sleep restriction effects
27893847
ab4674
Rat
IHC-IF
Effects of LPS on astrocytes and microglia
23259598
ab4674
Rat
IHC-IF
Inflammation and L-Glu uptake
23259598
ab4674
Human
WB
Differentiation of human iPSCs to cortical neurons
27383650
ab4674
Rat
IHC
Astrogliosis following dMCAo
30486515
ab4674
Mouse
ICC-IF
Effect of fluoroacetate treatment on enteric glial phenotype
32244316
ab4674
Mouse
ICC-IF
TLR4 signaling and EGC activity
32244316
ab4674
Mouse
IHC-IF
Epileptogenesis
32372941
ab53554
Mouse
IHC-IF
Reactive astrocytes
28408868
ab53554
Rat
WB
Effects of LBP on protein expression
30581486
ab53554
Rat
IHC
Diabetes effects
30581486
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Neuro-inflammation in HIV infection
28852071
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Retinal injury and glial cell activation
27008854
ab7260
Rat
IHC
Effects of Paeoniflorin on inflammation
30975172
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Astrocyte activation after microglial ablation
32959911
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Astrocyte development
28700615
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Astrocyte response to injury
24344836
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Localization of aquaporins in the olfactory system
31063132
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Neural stem cell behavior after ionising radiation
28489848
ab7260
Rat
WB
Spinal cord injury
27807407
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Ischemic injury
27008854
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Retinal degeneration
31949211
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
5xFAD caspase-6 KO mice
32050445
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Stroke outcomes
28576128
ab7260
Rat
IHC
Astrocyte activation
35628158
ab7260
Mouse
IHC-IF
Astrocyte activation
33627658

Function

GFAP, a class-III intermediate filament, is a cell-specific marker that, during the development of the central nervous system, distinguishes astrocytes from other glial cells.

Involvement in disease

Alexander disease

ALXDRD

A rare disorder of the central nervous system. The most common form affects infants and young children, and is characterized by progressive failure of central myelination, usually leading to death within the first decade. Infants with Alexander disease develop a leukodystrophy with macrocephaly, seizures, and psychomotor retardation. Patients with juvenile or adult forms typically experience ataxia, bulbar signs and spasticity, and a more slowly progressive course. Histologically, Alexander disease is characterized by Rosenthal fibers, homogeneous eosinophilic inclusions in astrocytes.

None

The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry.

Post-translational modifications

Phosphorylated by PKN1.

Sequence Similarities

Belongs to the intermediate filament family.

Tissue Specificity

Expressed in cells lacking fibronectin.

Cellular localization

Alternative names

Glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP

swissprot:P14136 entrezGene:2670 omim:137780

Other research areas