Extracellular Matrix Proteins & Antibodies
Extracellular matrix (ECM) is the non-cellular component that provides structural scaffolding to surrounding cells. It also provides
critical biochemical support that is required for intracellular communication, differentiation, and homeostasis.
Purified ECM Proteins
SouthernBiotech offers purified ECM proteins including collagens, fibronectin, and laminin.
Collagen
Collagen is the main structural protein in the extracellular space and is the most abundant protein in the ECM. They are divided
into two classes - fibril (types I, II, III, V) and non-fibril (types IV, VI).
Our highly purified human, bovine, mouse, and rat collagens are quality tested by SDS-PAGE and/or ELISA to ensure purity. They are
typically used as standards in applications such as ELISA and in cell culture to facilitate cell attachment, growth, differentiation,
migration, and tissue morphogenesis.
Fibronectin
Fibronectin is a high molecular weight ECM glycoprotein composed of two nearly identical monomers (220-250 kDa) linked by disulfide
bonds. It is present in two forms - the soluble form (the major component of blood plasma which is mainly produced by hepatocytes)
and insoluble form (a major component of the ECM which is secreted by various cells prior to being assembled into an insoluble
matrix). By binding to other ECM components such as collagen, integrins, and heparin, fibronectin plays an important role in cell adhesion, migration, growth, and differentiation.
Our highly purified fibronectin is quality tested by SDS-PAGE to ensure purity.
Laminin
Laminins are high-molecular weight ECM proteins that are a major component of the basal lamina of the basement membrane. They
consist of an α-chain, a β-chain, and a γ-chain which form a cross-like structure that bind to cell membranes and other ECM proteins.
Laminins contribute to cell attachment, differentiation, and motility.
Our highly purified laminin is quality tested by SDS-PAGE and ELISA to ensure purity. It has been used in adhesion and migration
assays.
Antibodies to ECM Proteins
SouthernBiotech offers polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to ECM proteins including collagens, fibronectin, and matrix
metalloproteinases. They are frequently used in ELISA, immunohistochemistry / immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy,
western blotting, and immunoprecipitation.