Topoisomerases are a class of enzymes involved in the manipulation of DNA's structure by regulating its topology. They control the winding and unwinding of the DNA double helix, allowing DNA replication, transcription, recombination, and other essential cellular processes to occur. There are two main types of topoisomerases: type I and type II. Type I topoisomerases create temporary single-strand breaks in the DNA, allowing it to rotate and thereby relieve torsional stress. Conversely, Type II topoisomerases generate transient double-strand breaks, enabling DNA strands to pass through one another, thereby resolving DNA tangles. The roles of topoisomerases in cancer are significant, as alterations in their activity or expression levels can directly contribute to genomic instability and promote the development of cancer. In cancer, topoisomerases are the target of several chemotherapeutic drugs such as the widely used class of drugs called topoisomerase inhibitors which specifically target these enzymes. Topoisomerase inhibitors interfere with the normal DNA manipulation process performed by topoisomerases, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage and ultimately triggering cell death. Genetic mutations in topoisomerase genes can lead to functional changes in the enzymes. Mutations in topoisomerase I (TOP1) and topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) genes have been observed in certain cancers and are associated with drug resistance and poorer treatment outcomes. Disruptions in topoisomerase activities can result in an accumulation of DNA damage, leading to genomic instability and chromosomal translocations. Chromosomal translocations can lead to the creation of fusion genes, such as the BCR-ABL fusion gene found in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), an oncogene which drives cancer development in this context. Some topoisomerases, particularly topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A), have also been identified as potential biomarkers in specific cancer types. As examples, Topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) is frequently overexpressed in breast cancer and is associated with increased cell proliferation. It is often used as a biomarker to predict response to certain chemotherapy drugs like anthracyclines (e.g., doxorubicin) and topoisomerase II inhibitors (e.g., etoposide). In lung cancer, particularly in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), TOP2A expression has been observed and has been investigated as a potential biomarker for predicting response to chemotherapy and prognosis in lung cancer patients, whilst in ovarian cancer TOP2A alterations, including gene amplification or protein overexpression, have been reported. It may be used as predictive marker for response to chemotherapy, including platinum-based regimens. We offer a large product range of research tools for investigating topoisomerases, including Topoisomerase II alpha antibodies, and Topoisomerase II alpha+Topoisomerase II beta antibodies. Explore our full topoisomerases product range below and discover more, for less.