Rabbit Polyclonal IRF-3(Phospho-Ser386) Antibody

The IRF-3 (Phospho-Ser386) antibody is a specialized tool used to detect the activated form of Interferon Regulatory Factor 3 (IRF-3), a key transcription factor in innate immune responses. IRF-3 normally resides in the cytoplasm in an inactive state but undergoes phosphorylation at specific residues, including Serine 386 (Ser386), upon pathogen recognition by cellular sensors like Toll-like receptors (TLRs) or RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs). This phosphorylation event, mediated by kinases such as TBK1 or IKKε, triggers IRF-3 dimerization, nuclear translocation, and activation of type I interferon (IFN-α/β) and pro-inflammatory cytokine genes. The IRF-3 (Phospho-Ser386) antibody specifically recognizes the phosphorylated Ser386 epitope, enabling researchers to study IRF-3 activation dynamics in response to viral infections, inflammatory stimuli, or immune signaling pathways. It is widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation to assess IRF-3 activation status in cellular models, aiding research on antiviral immunity, autoimmune disorders, and cancer immunology. Validations often include testing with phosphatase-treated samples or IRF-3-deficient cells to confirm specificity. This antibody is critical for dissecting mechanisms of innate immunity and evaluating therapeutic interventions targeting IRF-3 signaling.