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Cytokeratin 18 (CK18), encoded by the KRT18 gene on chromosome 12q13.13, is a type I intermediate filament protein. It consists of 430 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 48 kDa. CK18 undergoes various post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, glycosylation, and the formation of disulfide bonds, which can modulate its stability, localization, and function within cells. CK18 is primarily an intracellular protein, serving as a structural component of the cytoskeleton. CK18 contributes to the structural integrity of epithelial tissues, providing strength and resilience to withstand mechanical stress. Additionally, CK18 is involved in various cellular processes, including cell migration, signaling, and apoptosis regulation.
It is expressed in various tissues and organs, including the liver, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and respiratory system. Various factors, including developmental signals, hormonal influences, and tissue-specific transcription factors, regulate the expression of CK18. Its expression is tightly controlled to ensure proper tissue homeostasis and function. Dysregulation of CK18 expression or mutations in the KRT18 gene have been associated with various health conditions and diseases. For example, mutations in CK18 have been linked to liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and liver cirrhosis.
CK18 expression has been shown to have diagnostic and prognostic value. In cancer pathology, CK18 immunohistochemistry is commonly used as a diagnostic marker to identify tumor cells derived from epithelial origins. Additionally, in breast cancer, CK18 expression is frequently assessed to subtype tumors and distinguish between different histological types. High levels of CK18 expression have been associated with luminal breast cancers, which tend to have a better prognosis compared to basal-like or triple-negative breast cancers. In colorectal and gastric cancer, elevated CK18 levels have been correlated with tumor aggressiveness, lymph node metastasis, and poorer patient outcomes.
Furthermore, CK18 expression has also been studied in various liver diseases, such as NAFLD and liver cirrhosis. Changes in CK18 expression levels have been associated with disease progression and severity, making it a potential biomarker for monitoring liver health and assessing treatment response in these conditions. Therefore, CK18 immunostaining can provide valuable diagnostic information and help guide treatment decisions.
NeoBiotechnologies offers a variety of antibodies against CK18 that have been validated for flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting. Additionally, we hold exclusive rights to CK18 antibodies available for licensing or collaboration [https://www.neobiotechnologies.com/shop/?s=KRT18].
Keratin, type I cytoskeletal 18, Cell proliferation-inducing gene 46 protein, Cytokeratin-18, Keratin-18, Cell Proliferation-inducing Gene 46 Protein; CK18; CYK18 Cytokeratin Endo B; K18; Keratin-18; Kerd; KRT18
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