Anti-Olig2 antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Olig2 also known as Oligo2 or OLIG2 is a protein with a molecular mass of around 32 kDa. It belongs to the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors which play roles in neurodevelopment. Olig2 is expressed mainly in the central nervous system particularly in oligodendrocyte progenitor cells and motor neuron progenitors. As an important marker Olig2 staining is often used in studies involving these cell types to understand differentiation processes.

Biological function summary

Olig2 regulates gene expression important for the proper development of the central nervous system. It functions both independently and as a part of transcriptional complexes to influence the fate of neural progenitors. In particular its presence decides whether these progenitors will differentiate into neurons astrocytes or oligodendrocytes. Among the proteins it interacts with are factors that modulate neurogenesis and myelination highlighting its importance in maintaining normal brain homeostasis.

Pathways

Olig2 plays an important role in the oligodendrocyte differentiation and motor neuron generation pathways. It works closely with proteins such as SOX10 and NKX2.2 to regulate oligodendrocyte maturation. In the motor neuron pathway Olig2 interacts with proteins like NKX6.1 and LHX3 coordinating the development of motor neurons. These pathways demonstrate Olig2's function as a critical transcription factor influencing neural development and plasticity.

Associated diseases and disorders

Abnormalities in Olig2 expression or function relate to conditions such as gliomas and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Elevated levels of Olig2 are often seen in gliomas where it might cooperate with proteins like IDH1 to drive tumor growth. In MS the impairment of oligodendrocyte function can link back to disruptions in normal Olig2 activity or expression. These associations make Olig2 a significant target for potential therapeutic interventions in neurological conditions.