OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated

What is OPTC (Opticin) and why is it a target for antibody development?

Opticin (OPTC) is a secreted protein belonging to the small leucine-rich proteoglycan (SLRP) family, SLRP class III subfamily. It functions as an extracellular matrix structural constituent primarily found in the proteinaceous extracellular matrix. OPTC plays a crucial role in binding collagen fibrils and is involved in negative regulation of angiogenesis by competitively inhibiting endothelial cell interactions with collagen via alpha(1)beta(1) and alpha(2)beta(1) integrins. This inhibition prevents the strong adhesion required for proangiogenic signaling via these integrins .

The significance of OPTC in ophthalmological research and its involvement in extracellular matrix organization makes it an important target for antibody development. Antibodies against OPTC allow researchers to study its expression, localization, and interactions in normal and pathological states, particularly in contexts related to ocular tissues and angiogenesis regulation.

How does biotin conjugation enhance the functionality of OPTC antibodies?

Biotin conjugation significantly enhances OPTC antibody functionality through several mechanisms:

• Signal Amplification: Biotin conjugation enables signal amplification in detection systems, increasing sensitivity for detecting low concentrations of OPTC protein. This amplification occurs because multiple avidin or streptavidin molecules (each with multiple binding sites) can interact with biotin-labeled antibodies .

• Versatility in Detection Systems: The biotin-conjugated antibody can be detected using various streptavidin-conjugated reporters (enzymes, fluorophores, or gold particles), providing flexibility in experimental design without requiring multiple specifically labeled primary antibodies .

• Stability and Robustness: The biotin-(strept)avidin system offers remarkable stability against manipulation, proteolytic enzymes, temperature and pH extremes, harsh organic reagents, and other denaturing conditions .

• Preserved Antibody Functionality: Biotin's relatively small size (240 Da) and flexible valeric side chain allow conjugation without significantly altering the antibody's binding properties or affinity for its target antigen .

What is the mechanism behind biotin-streptavidin interaction in immunoassays?

The biotin-streptavidin interaction serves as a cornerstone of many immunoassay designs due to its exceptional binding characteristics:

• Exceptional Binding Affinity: The binding affinity (K_D) between biotin and streptavidin is approximately 10³ to 10⁶ times higher than typical antigen-antibody interactions, making it one of the strongest non-covalent biological bonds known .

• Bridging Function: In immunoassays like the Bridged Avidin-Biotin (BRAB) method, the system creates a molecular bridge where the target antigen is "sandwiched" between an immobilized capture antibody and a biotin-labeled detection antibody. After washing, avidin or streptavidin is added, binding to the biotin label on the complex, followed by addition of a biotin-labeled enzyme that binds to the immobilized avidin .

• Sequential Binding Events: In ELISA formats, biotin-conjugated antibodies bind to the target antigen, followed by the addition of avidin/streptavidin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase (HRP). This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of substrates like TMB (3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine) to produce a detectable color change, with signal intensity proportional to antigen concentration .

The system essentially separates antibody binding and signal generation functions, allowing for modular assay design and enhanced detection capabilities.

What are the key characteristics of commercially available OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated?

Commercial OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated preparations typically have the following characteristics:

These biotin-conjugated antibodies are specifically designed for detecting human Opticin in research applications, particularly in ELISA formats where the biotin-streptavidin system enhances detection sensitivity .

How should OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated be stored and handled to maintain its activity?

Proper storage and handling of OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated is essential for maintaining its activity and extending its usable lifespan:

• Temperature Requirements: Store at -20°C or -80°C upon receipt for long-term stability .

• Avoid Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Minimize repeated freezing and thawing as this can significantly reduce antibody activity. Aliquot the antibody upon first thaw to minimize freeze-thaw cycles .

• Working Solution Storage: If prepared as a working solution, biotin-conjugated antibodies can typically be stored at 4°C for up to two weeks, but should not be frozen in diluted form .

• Protection from Light: For biotin conjugates, storage in amber vials or wrapped in aluminum foil is recommended to protect from light exposure, which can reduce activity over time.

• Buffer Considerations: The antibody is supplied in a stabilizing buffer (0.03% Proclin 300, 50% Glycerol, 0.01M PBS, pH 7.4) that helps maintain activity. Avoid diluting in buffers that might compromise stability unless immediately before use .

• Contamination Prevention: Use sterile techniques when handling to prevent microbial contamination, which can degrade the antibody and introduce experimental artifacts.

What are the optimal protocols for using OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated in ELISA?

The optimal protocol for using OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated in ELISA typically follows this sequence:

• Plate Coating:

  • Coat microtiter wells with anti-OPTC capture antibody or specific antigen (depending on whether direct or indirect detection is desired)

  • Incubate overnight at 4°C or for 1-2 hours at 37°C

  • Wash to remove unbound antibody/antigen

• Blocking:

  • Block unoccupied binding sites with blocking buffer (typically BSA or non-fat dry milk in PBS)

  • Incubate for 1-2 hours at room temperature

  • Wash thoroughly

• Sample Addition:

  • Add standards or samples to the appropriate wells

  • Incubate at 37°C for 90 minutes with gentle shaking

  • Wash to remove unbound proteins

• Biotin-Conjugated Antibody Addition:

  • Add the biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody at the optimized concentration

  • Incubate at 37°C for 60 minutes

  • Wash thoroughly to remove unbound antibody

• Avidin/Streptavidin-HRP Addition:

  • Add avidin or streptavidin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase (HRP)

  • Incubate at room temperature for 30-60 minutes

  • Wash thoroughly

• Substrate Addition:

  • Add 90-100 μL of TMB (3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine) substrate solution

  • Incubate at room temperature in the dark for 10-30 minutes

• Reaction Termination:

  • Add 50-100 μL of stop solution (typically sulfuric acid)

  • Mix thoroughly

• Signal Detection:

  • Measure optical density at 450 nm (with reference wavelength at 630 nm if available)

  • Determine OPTC concentration by comparing sample OD values to the standard curve

For optimal performance, serial dilutions of samples should be prepared to ensure measurements fall within the linear range of the assay .

How can I determine the appropriate concentration of OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated for my experiment?

Determining the optimal concentration of OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated requires systematic titration:

• Titration Experiment:

  • Prepare a series of antibody dilutions (typically 1:100, 1:500, 1:1000, 1:5000, and 1:10000)

  • Test each dilution against a constant concentration of positive control (recombinant OPTC protein)

  • Include negative controls to assess background signal

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio Analysis:

  • Calculate the signal-to-noise ratio for each concentration by dividing the signal from positive samples by that from negative controls

  • Select the concentration that provides the highest signal-to-noise ratio while consuming the least amount of antibody

• Standard Curve Assessment:

  • Generate standard curves using different antibody concentrations

  • Evaluate linearity, dynamic range, and lower limit of detection

  • The optimal concentration should yield a linear standard curve with maximum dynamic range

• Cross-Validation:

  • Confirm the selected concentration with samples of known OPTC concentration

  • Regression analysis of serial dilution assays should demonstrate a significant relationship between signal and dilution levels (aim for R² > 0.95)

The typical working concentration range for biotin-conjugated antibodies in ELISA is often between 0.1-10 μg/mL, but this must be empirically determined for each specific antibody and experimental system.

What controls should be included when using OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated in immunoassays?

A robust experimental design with appropriate controls is essential for reliable results:

• Positive Controls:

  • Recombinant human OPTC protein at known concentrations

  • Samples previously validated to contain OPTC

  • Serial dilutions of positive controls to establish assay linearity

• Negative Controls:

  • Buffer-only wells (no antigen)

  • Non-target protein samples

  • Samples from OPTC-knockout models (if available)

• Antibody Controls:

  • Isotype control (biotin-conjugated non-specific IgG)

  • Non-biotinylated OPTC antibody to assess biotin contribution to signal

  • Pre-absorption control (antibody pre-incubated with excess recombinant OPTC)

• Technical Controls:

  • Wells with all components except one (sequentially omitting biotin-antibody, streptavidin-HRP, etc.)

  • Blocking control to verify effective blocking (no cross-reaction between blocking agent and secondary reagents)

  • Direct enzyme control (HRP added directly to substrate)

• Validation Controls:

  • Alternative detection method for the same target

  • Western blot validation of samples showing high ELISA signal

  • Spike-and-recovery experiments with known quantities of recombinant OPTC

The signal values obtained from these control wells are crucial for demonstrating that the blocking worked effectively and that there is no cross-reaction between assay components .

How does the sensitivity of biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody compare to unconjugated alternatives?

The biotin-streptavidin system significantly enhances detection sensitivity compared to conventional detection methods:

• Signal Amplification Mechanism:

  • Biotin-conjugated antibodies enable signal amplification through the strong biotin-streptavidin interaction, which has a dissociation constant (K_D) 10³ to 10⁶ times higher than typical antigen-antibody interactions

  • Each streptavidin molecule can bind four biotin molecules, creating a branched detection structure that amplifies signal

• Lower Detection Limits:

  • Biotin conjugation typically lowers the limit of detection by 2-10 fold compared to direct enzyme-conjugated antibodies

  • This allows for the detection of very low concentrations of OPTC while decreasing the number of steps required for measurement

• Dynamic Range Comparison:

  • Biotin-conjugated systems typically offer a broader dynamic range (3-4 logs) compared to conventional direct detection methods (2-3 logs)

  • This expanded range is particularly valuable when measuring OPTC in samples with widely varying concentrations

• Signal-to-Noise Advantages:

  • The high specificity of the biotin-streptavidin interaction combined with stringent washing steps produces superior signal-to-noise ratios

  • Regression analysis of serial dilution assays has demonstrated significant and stronger relationships in samples from properly immunized subjects (R² = 0.96) compared to negative controls (R² = 0.52)

These advantages make biotin-conjugated OPTC antibodies particularly valuable for detecting low abundance targets or for applications requiring enhanced sensitivity.

What strategies can be employed to minimize non-specific binding when using OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated?

Non-specific binding can significantly impact assay performance. Several strategies can minimize this issue:

• Optimized Blocking Protocols:

  • Use protein-based blockers (2-5% BSA, casein, or non-fat dry milk) to effectively occupy non-specific binding sites

  • Consider specialized blocking agents for biotin-streptavidin systems that contain no endogenous biotin

  • Extend blocking time to ensure complete coverage of non-specific binding sites

• Buffer Optimization:

  • Add 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 to washing and dilution buffers to reduce hydrophobic interactions

  • Include 0.1-0.5 M NaCl in buffers to reduce ionic interactions

  • For samples with high background, consider adding 1-5% normal serum from the same species as the secondary reagent

• Pre-absorption Procedures:

  • Pre-absorb the biotin-conjugated antibody with tissue/cell lysates from species or tissues not expressing the target

  • Use an irrelevant protein matrix similar to the test sample matrix for diluting standards and reagents

• Streptavidin System Considerations:

  • Use streptavidin rather than avidin when possible (streptavidin has less non-specific binding)

  • Be aware of endogenous biotin in samples, which can compete for streptavidin binding sites

  • For samples with high endogenous biotin, consider alternative detection systems or biotin-blocking steps

• Wash Protocol Enhancement:

  • Increase the number and volume of washes between each step

  • Use automated washers when available for more consistent washing

  • Consider more stringent wash buffers for problematic samples

Implementation of these strategies should be empirically tested and optimized for each specific experimental system.

How can I verify the specificity of OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated in complex biological samples?

Verifying antibody specificity in complex samples requires multiple validation approaches:

• Western Blot Validation:

  • Perform western blot analysis of samples to confirm a single band at the expected molecular weight of OPTC (~45-50 kDa)

  • Include positive controls (recombinant OPTC) and negative controls

  • Peptide competition assay: pre-incubate antibody with excess immunizing peptide before western blot to confirm signal elimination

• Immunoprecipitation Followed by Mass Spectrometry:

  • Use the biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody to immunoprecipitate from complex samples

  • Analyze the precipitated material by mass spectrometry to confirm OPTC identity

  • Check for co-precipitating proteins that might represent specific binding partners versus non-specific interactions

• Cross-Reactivity Testing:

  • Test the antibody against recombinant proteins with similar sequences or structures

  • Evaluate reactivity in tissues/cells known to express or lack OPTC

  • Test across species if cross-reactivity is claimed by the manufacturer

• Correlation with Alternative Detection Methods:

  • Compare results with alternative OPTC antibodies targeting different epitopes

  • Correlate protein detection with mRNA expression data (RT-PCR or RNA-seq)

  • Use genetic models (knockdown, knockout, or overexpression) to confirm specificity

• Dilution Linearity and Parallelism:

  • Serial dilutions of positive samples should produce signals that decrease linearly and in parallel with standard curves

  • Regression analysis should show strong correlation (R² > 0.95) between dilution factor and signal intensity

These validation steps collectively provide strong evidence for antibody specificity and are essential for confident interpretation of experimental results.

What are the potential interference factors in biotin-based detection systems when using OPTC antibodies?

Several factors can interfere with biotin-based detection systems:

• Endogenous Biotin:

  • Samples with high endogenous biotin (serum, tissue extracts, especially from biotin-supplemented subjects) can compete for streptavidin binding sites

  • This interference can lead to falsely decreased signals

  • Pre-treatment of samples with streptavidin-agarose to remove endogenous biotin may be necessary for highly biotin-rich samples

• Hook Effect:

  • Extremely high concentrations of OPTC can paradoxically decrease signal (high-dose hook effect)

  • This occurs when excess target saturates both capture and detection antibodies independently, preventing formation of the sandwich complex

  • Testing multiple sample dilutions can identify and circumvent this effect

• Heterophilic Antibodies:

  • Human anti-animal antibodies in samples can bridge capture and detection antibodies, causing false positive signals

  • Addition of irrelevant animal IgG or commercial blockers of heterophilic antibodies can mitigate this interference

• Biotin-Streptavidin Binding Inhibitors:

  • Certain drugs, dyes, or chemicals can interfere with biotin-streptavidin binding

  • Samples containing high concentrations of biotin analogs should be avoided or specially processed

• Matrix Effects:

  • Components in complex biological samples can non-specifically bind to assay components or affect enzyme activity

  • Sample dilution in assay buffer can reduce matrix effects

  • Using matrix-matched calibrators and controls can improve quantification accuracy

Understanding these potential interference factors is crucial for designing robust assays and correctly interpreting results, especially when working with complex biological samples.

How can I troubleshoot inconsistent signals when using OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated in ELISA?

Inconsistent signals in ELISA using biotin-conjugated antibodies can stem from various sources:

• Reagent Stability Issues:

  • Investigate antibody degradation through accelerated stability testing

  • Prepare fresh working dilutions of all reagents

  • Check enzyme activity with direct substrate tests

  • Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles of the antibody

• Technical Execution Variables:

  • Standardize incubation times and temperatures precisely

  • Ensure consistent washing steps (number, volume, and technique)

  • Verify plate reader performance with calibration standards

  • Use calibrated pipettes and standardize pipetting technique

• Environmental Factors:

  • Control laboratory temperature and humidity

  • Protect TMB substrate from light exposure during incubation

  • Minimize plate edge effects by using only interior wells or buffer-filled outer wells

  • Allow all reagents to equilibrate to room temperature before use

• Sample-Related Issues:

  • Standardize sample collection, processing, and storage

  • Check for sample degradation through spiking experiments

  • Evaluate sample viscosity and adjust dilution protocols accordingly

  • Screen for interfering substances using dilution linearity tests

• Systematic Investigation Approach:

  • Design a structured troubleshooting experiment varying one parameter at a time

  • Include internal controls on each plate to normalize inter-plate variation

  • Create a coefficient of variation (CV) profile across the assay range to identify problem areas

  • Implement statistical process control charts to monitor assay performance over time

Through systematic evaluation of these variables, researchers can identify and address sources of inconsistency to achieve reliable and reproducible results.

What approaches can be used to quantify the binding kinetics of OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated to its target?

Several advanced techniques can characterize binding kinetics:

• Bio-Layer Interferometry (BLI):

  • Immobilize biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody on streptavidin biosensors

  • Measure real-time binding to various concentrations of antigen

  • Determine association rate (k_on), dissociation rate (k_off), and equilibrium dissociation constant (K_D)

  • This label-free technique allows direct measurement of binding events by detecting changes in the interference pattern of light reflected from the biosensor tip

• Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR):

  • Similar to BLI but based on different physical principles

  • Provides real-time binding data with minimal sample consumption

  • Allows determination of affinity constants and binding kinetics

  • Can differentiate between specific and non-specific interactions

• Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC):

  • Measures heat released or absorbed during binding

  • Provides complete thermodynamic profile (ΔH, ΔS, ΔG)

  • No immobilization required, eliminating potential artifacts

  • Particularly useful for comparing different antibody-antigen interactions

• ELISA-Based Kinetic Analysis:

  • Perform time-course experiments with varying antibody concentrations

  • Plot binding curves at different time points

  • Apply appropriate kinetic models to extract rate constants

  • While less precise than dedicated kinetic methods, this approach uses standard laboratory equipment

• Competitive Binding Assays:

  • Use unlabeled OPTC to compete with labeled OPTC for antibody binding

  • Measure IC₅₀ values at different incubation times

  • Apply Cheng-Prusoff equation to determine K_i values

  • Helpful for comparing relative affinities between different antibodies

These approaches provide valuable insights into antibody-antigen interactions, helping researchers select optimal antibodies for specific applications and understand binding mechanisms.

How can I validate OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated for use in my specific tissue or cell type?

A comprehensive validation strategy for specific tissues or cells includes:

• Expression Profile Verification:

  • Confirm OPTC expression in your tissue/cell type using transcriptomic data (RNA-seq or qPCR)

  • Compare observed signal patterns with known OPTC distribution in tissues

  • For novel applications, start with established positive control tissues (e.g., vitreous humor, eye tissues) alongside your experimental samples

• Preabsorption Controls:

  • Preincubate the antibody with excess recombinant OPTC protein

  • Apply both preabsorbed and non-preabsorbed antibody to your samples

  • Signal elimination in preabsorbed samples confirms specificity

• Multiple Detection Methods:

  • Validate OPTC presence using orthogonal techniques (Western blot, immunohistochemistry, mass spectrometry)

  • Compare results across techniques to establish concordance

  • Discordant results may indicate tissue-specific post-translational modifications or isoforms

• Titration in Target Tissue:

  • Perform antibody dilution series specifically in your tissue/cell type

  • Determine optimal concentration through signal-to-noise ratio analysis

  • Optimal concentration may differ from manufacturer recommendations depending on OPTC abundance in your specific sample type

• Genetic Manipulation Controls:

  • Use OPTC-knockdown (siRNA, shRNA) samples as negative controls

  • Employ OPTC-overexpression systems as positive controls

  • Signal correlation with genetic manipulation provides strong validation evidence

• Cross-Reactivity Assessment:

  • Test antibody against tissue samples from OPTC-knockout models (if available)

  • Evaluate potential cross-reactivity with related proteins expressed in your tissue

  • Particularly important for tissues expressing multiple SLRP family members

Tissue-specific validation ensures reliable results in your experimental system and may reveal tissue-specific characteristics of OPTC expression and function.

What strategies can address high background issues in immunoassays using OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated?

High background signals can compromise assay sensitivity and specificity. Several targeted approaches can resolve this issue:

• Blocking Optimization:

  • Test different blocking agents (BSA, casein, normal serum, commercial blockers)

  • Extend blocking time (2-16 hours) and/or increase blocking agent concentration

  • Use biotin-free blocking agents when working with biotin-streptavidin systems

  • Consider sequential blocking with different blockers for particularly problematic samples

• Washing Enhancement:

  • Increase washing stringency (more washes, higher detergent concentration)

  • Implement programmed plate washers for consistent washing

  • Use PBS-T (PBS with 0.05-0.1% Tween-20) followed by PBS alone as a final wash

  • Allow longer soaking times during wash steps for more effective removal of unbound reagents

• Reagent Dilution Adjustments:

  • Optimize antibody dilution to minimize excess antibody

  • Prepare reagents in blocking buffer rather than basic buffer

  • Include 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 in all diluents to reduce non-specific binding

  • Consider adding 1-5% normal serum from the secondary reagent species to antibody diluents

• Streptavidin-System Specific Approaches:

  • Address endogenous biotin interference by pre-treating samples with streptavidin-agarose

  • Use only biotin-free serum for dilutions and blocking

  • Consider alternative detection systems if biotin interference persists

  • Optimize streptavidin-HRP concentration independently of other reagents

• Sample Preparation Modifications:

  • Implement additional centrifugation/filtration steps to remove particulates

  • Pre-clear samples with Protein A/G before analysis

  • Test different dilution buffers that may better match sample matrix

  • Consider sample pre-treatment to remove interfering substances

Systematic implementation and evaluation of these strategies can significantly improve signal-to-noise ratio and assay performance.

How can OPTC Antibody, Biotin conjugated be utilized in multiplexed detection systems?

Multiplexed detection systems offer efficient simultaneous measurement of multiple targets:

• Multiplex ELISA Strategies:

  • Combine biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody with differently labeled antibodies against other targets

  • Use spectrally distinct streptavidin conjugates (different fluorophores) for parallel detection

  • Implement spatial separation on segmented plates or arrays

  • Carefully validate for cross-reactivity and interference between detection systems

• Bead-Based Multiplex Assays:

  • Couple capture antibodies to differently coded microbeads

  • Use biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody among other detection antibodies

  • Add streptavidin-phycoerythrin for fluorescent detection

  • Multiplex capability allows simultaneous measurement of OPTC alongside related proteins or biomarkers

• Imaging Applications:

  • Employ biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody with differently labeled antibodies in immunofluorescence

  • Use streptavidin conjugated to quantum dots for photostable, narrow-emission detection

  • Combine with other biomarkers to study co-localization or expression patterns

  • Particularly valuable for studying OPTC's role in extracellular matrix organization

• Protein Array Systems:

  • Include OPTC antibody in antibody arrays for proteome profiling

  • Detect captured proteins using biotin-conjugated detection antibodies

  • Process with streptavidin-conjugated reporter molecules

  • Enable high-throughput screening of OPTC expression across multiple samples

• Biosensor Integration:

  • Incorporate biotin-conjugated OPTC antibody into multiplexed biosensor platforms

  • Utilize the exceptional binding affinity of the biotin-streptavidin system for stable sensor functionalization

  • Implement in bio-layer interferometry (BLI) systems for real-time, label-free detection

  • Combine with other biomarker measurements for comprehensive sample analysis

These multiplexed approaches maximize information yield while minimizing sample consumption, particularly valuable for precious or limited samples.

What novel applications of OPTC antibodies are emerging in current research?

Emerging applications of OPTC antibodies span multiple research domains:

• Angiogenesis Research:

  • Investigation of OPTC's role in inhibiting endothelial cell interactions with collagen

  • Studying how OPTC competitively inhibits interactions via alpha(1)beta(1) and alpha(2)beta(1) integrins

  • Exploring potential therapeutic applications in pathological angiogenesis

  • Development of anti-angiogenic therapies based on OPTC's biological functions

• Extracellular Matrix Biology:

  • Mapping OPTC distribution and interactions in various tissues

  • Investigating OPTC's role in extracellular matrix organization and stability

  • Studying interactions with other matrix components, particularly collagens

  • Understanding matrix remodeling in development and disease

• Ophthalmological Research:

  • Characterizing OPTC expression patterns in normal and diseased ocular tissues

  • Investigating OPTC's role in vitreous gel structure maintenance

  • Studying potential involvement in eye diseases like glaucoma and vitreoretinopathies

  • Development of diagnostic markers for ophthalmic conditions

• Biomarker Development:

  • Evaluating OPTC as a potential biomarker for specific diseases

  • Developing standardized assays for clinical research applications

  • Investigating correlations between OPTC levels and disease progression

  • Integration into multiplexed biomarker panels

• Tissue Engineering:

  • Utilizing OPTC's properties in designing biomaterials

  • Monitoring OPTC expression as a marker for successful matrix organization

  • Incorporating OPTC in engineered tissues to recapitulate native extracellular matrix

  • Studying OPTC's contribution to biomechanical properties of engineered tissues

These emerging applications highlight the expanding role of OPTC research beyond traditional areas, opening new avenues for investigation and potential therapeutic interventions.