Endoplasmic reticulum markers

Investigate the cell’s protein synthesis and quality control machinery with high-performance ER marker antibodies, including Calreticulin, PDI, and GRP78. Part of a world-leading catalog of over 60k primary antibodies with over 600k citations, our ER-validated range offers the reliable specificity needed to visualize endoplasmic reticulum morphology and the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) across diverse cell types.

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What is the endoplasmic reticulum?

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is found in eukaryotic cells and consists of membrane sacs called cisternae.

Rough ER: studded with ribosomes, it’s the main site of protein synthesis.
smooth ER: lacks ribosomes and handles lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.

The ER also contains enzymes essential for protein folding and modification. It works closely with the Golgi apparatus and lysosomes, forming a transport network that moves proteins and lipids between organelles. This system ensures proper protein processing and intracellular logistics.

Types of ER markers

ER markers are proteins or molecules that help identify and study ER structure and function. Common examples include:

Calnexin: A chaperone involved in protein folding.
Calreticulin: Regulates calcium and assists in quality control.
BiP/GRP78: A key player in stress response and protein folding.

What are ER markers used to study?

Researchers use ER markers to:

Visualize ER morphology in cells.
Monitor protein folding and stress responses.
Investigate ER-associated degradation (ERAD).
Study the unfolded protein response (UPR), which is critical for understanding cellular homeostasis and disease mechanisms.

Applications in research

ER markers are essential in:

Drug discovery: testing compounds that affect protein folding or ER stress.
Disease studies: exploring conditions like neurodegeneration, diabetes, and cancer.
Cell biology: mapping organelle interactions and trafficking pathways.