Rabbit Polyclonal HBG1/HBG2 Antibody

Hemoglobin subunit gamma-1 (HBG1) and gamma-2 (HBG2) are fetal-specific globin genes encoding the γ-globin chains of fetal hemoglobin (HbF, α2γ2). Expressed predominantly during fetal development, HbF is replaced by adult hemoglobin (HbA, α2β2) after birth, though low levels persist in adults. Antibodies targeting HBG1/HBG2 are critical tools for studying HbF regulation and its reactivation in hemoglobinopathies like β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease, where elevated HbF can ameliorate symptoms. These antibodies enable detection and quantification of γ-globin protein in cells or tissues via techniques like Western blot, immunohistochemistry, or flow cytometry. Research applications include investigating genetic or pharmacological interventions to induce HbF (e.g., hydroxyurea, gene editing), understanding developmental globin switching mechanisms, and characterizing clonal hematopoiesis in conditions like hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH). Commercially available HBG1/HBG2 antibodies vary in specificity, with some distinguishing between the two γ-globin isoforms (differing by a single amino acid) and others recognizing both. Validation in relevant models (e.g., primary erythroid cells, transgenic mice) is essential due to potential cross-reactivity with other globin family members.