Ankyrin 1, Erythrocytic (ANK1) Antibody

Background

ANK1 is a member of the ankyrin family of proteins, which function as cytoskeletal adaptor proteins that link the plasma membrane to the underlying cytoskeleton. ANK1 is primarily expressed in erythrocytes (red blood cells), where it plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity and elasticity of the red blood cell membrane by anchoring key membrane proteins such as band 3 and spectrin to the cytoskeleton. Mutations in ANK1 are associated with hereditary spherocytosis, a genetic disorder characterized by red blood cell membrane instability, leading to hemolysis, anemia, and spherical-shaped erythrocytes. ANK1 is also expressed in skeletal muscle and other tissues, where it contributes to cellular organization and membrane stability. Beyond its structural roles, ANK1 is implicated in cellular signaling and ion transport regulation. Dysregulation of ANK1 has been linked to erythrocyte disorders, impaired oxygen delivery, and cellular stress responses, highlighting its critical role in membrane-cytoskeletal interactions.