The P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated, is a fluorescently labeled polyclonal antibody designed for detecting prolyl 3-hydroxylase 2 (P3H2), a collagen-modifying enzyme critical for post-translational 3-hydroxylation of proline residues in collagen IV. This antibody is widely used in research to study angiogenesis, collagen dynamics, and diseases like myopia and cancer .
Function: Catalyzes 3-hydroxyproline formation in collagen IV, essential for collagen stability and angiogenesis .
Immunofluorescence (IF): Visualizes P3H2 localization in cellular models (e.g., A549 lung carcinoma cells) .
Flow Cytometry: Quantifies P3H2 expression in permeabilized cells (e.g., RT4 bladder carcinoma cells) .
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA): Detects soluble P3H2 in biological samples .
Angiogenesis Studies:
Collagenopathies:
Controls: Include isotype-matched antibodies and secondary-only controls to minimize background .
Limitations: Not validated for formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues in some commercial products .
P3H2 (Prolyl 3-hydroxylase 2), also known as LEPREL1 or Leprecan-like protein 1, is an enzyme that catalyzes the post-translational formation of 3-hydroxyproline in -Xaa-Pro-Gly- sequences in collagens. It is particularly active on collagen types II, IV, and V . The protein belongs to the leprecan family, which includes P3H1, P3H3, CRTAP, and SC proteins . P3H2 plays a critical role in collagen biosynthesis and stability, affecting the structural integrity of various tissues where these collagen types are predominant. The calculated molecular weight of P3H2 is approximately 60-81 kDa, with observed molecular weight in experimental conditions at approximately 80 kDa . The enzyme has been identified as myxoid liposarcoma-associated protein 4 (MLAT4) in some contexts, suggesting a potential role in certain pathological conditions .
The P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated has been primarily tested and validated for ELISA applications . While the FITC-conjugated version has limited documented applications, related non-conjugated P3H2 antibodies have demonstrated utility in Western blotting (WB), immunoprecipitation (IP), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and ELISA .
The fluorescent properties of the FITC conjugate make it potentially suitable for applications requiring fluorescence detection, including:
Immunofluorescence microscopy
Flow cytometry
Confocal microscopy
High-content imaging
FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate) conjugation provides several advantages for P3H2 antibody applications:
Direct detection without secondary antibodies, simplifying experimental protocols and reducing potential cross-reactivity issues .
High fluorescence with excitation and emission peak wavelengths at approximately 495nm and 525nm, allowing for sensitive detection of P3H2 .
Compatibility with standard fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry equipment, as FITC is a widely-used fluorochrome .
FITC conjugation to proteins is relatively simple and usually does not alter the biological activity of the labeled antibody, preserving the specificity and affinity of the P3H2 antibody .
Enables multiplexing capabilities when combined with antibodies conjugated to other fluorophores with non-overlapping spectra .
The FITC-conjugated format is particularly advantageous for applications where signal amplification is not necessary or where direct visualization of P3H2 localization is desired.
The P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated shows reactivity with human samples . The antibody was developed using a recombinant human Prolyl 3-hydroxylase 2 protein (amino acids 301-528) as the immunogen, which explains its specificity for human P3H2 .
In comparison, non-conjugated versions of P3H2 antibodies have been reported to react with both human and mouse samples . Experimental evidence demonstrates successful detection of P3H2 in:
Researchers working with non-human samples should exercise caution when using the FITC-conjugated version and consider performing cross-reactivity tests to confirm antibody functionality in their specific experimental system.
For maximum stability and activity retention of P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated, the following storage conditions are recommended:
Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles which can compromise antibody integrity and fluorophore activity .
For shipping, the antibody is typically shipped at 4°C, but should be transferred to recommended storage conditions immediately upon arrival .
The antibody is provided in a storage buffer containing 0.03% Proclin 300 as a preservative, 50% Glycerol, and 0.01M PBS at pH 7.4, which helps maintain stability during storage .
For optimal performance, it is advisable to aliquot the antibody upon receipt to minimize freeze-thaw cycles. When working with the antibody, maintain cold conditions (4°C) and protect from extended light exposure to preserve FITC fluorescence intensity.
Validating antibody specificity is crucial for ensuring reliable experimental results. For P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated, consider implementing these validation strategies:
Positive and negative control samples:
Peptide competition assay:
Correlation with orthogonal methods:
Compare P3H2 detection using different antibody clones or detection methods.
Correlate protein expression with mRNA levels using RT-PCR or RNA-seq.
Flow cytometry validation:
Western blot correlation:
Implementing multiple validation methods provides the strongest evidence for antibody specificity in your particular experimental system.
While specific protocols for P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated in immunofluorescence have not been directly documented, a recommended workflow can be adapted from protocols used with other P3H2 antibodies and standard practices for FITC-conjugated antibodies:
Sample preparation:
Blocking:
Primary antibody incubation:
Washing:
Wash 3 times with PBS for 5 minutes each.
Counter-staining (optional):
For co-localization studies, stain with other markers using antibodies with non-overlapping fluorophores.
Include nuclear stain (e.g., DAPI) for reference.
Mounting and imaging:
Controls:
Based on successful immunofluorescence with other P3H2 antibodies in A549 cells, this cell line could serve as a good positive control for protocol optimization .
P3H2 shows differential expression across various tissues, which has important implications for experimental design:
Tissue Expression Profile:
Based on immunohistochemistry data from non-conjugated P3H2 antibodies, positive detection has been reported in:
Human tissues:
Mouse tissues:
Cell lines:
Experimental Design Implications:
Control selection: Choose appropriate positive control tissues based on known high expression (kidney or placenta tissues are good candidates) .
Antibody dilution optimization: Different tissues may require different antibody concentrations. For immunohistochemistry applications, a recommended dilution range of 1:50-1:500 has been suggested for non-conjugated versions, but this should be optimized for the FITC-conjugated antibody .
Antigen retrieval considerations: For fixed tissue samples, heat-mediated antigen retrieval has been successful with EDTA buffer (pH 8.0) . For some human tissues, TE buffer pH 9.0 is recommended, with citrate buffer pH 6.0 as an alternative .
Signal quantification strategy: Account for tissue-specific baseline expression when comparing P3H2 levels across different tissue types.
Experimental validation: Since the FITC-conjugated version has limited documented tissue application data, preliminary validation in your tissue of interest is strongly recommended.
Understanding tissue-specific expression patterns will help in designing more targeted experiments and in correctly interpreting results from studies using P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated.
When using P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated for flow cytometry analysis, several important considerations should be addressed:
Cell preparation and fixation:
Antibody concentration optimization:
Controls:
Include an isotype control (rabbit IgG, FITC conjugated) at the same concentration as the P3H2 antibody to assess non-specific binding .
Unstained cells should be analyzed to establish autofluorescence baseline.
If possible, include a positive control cell line known to express P3H2 (e.g., RT4 cells) and a negative control with reduced P3H2 expression .
Instrument settings:
Use appropriate laser (488 nm) and filter settings for FITC detection (typically 530/30 nm bandpass filter).
Perform compensation if using multiple fluorophores to correct for spectral overlap.
Data analysis considerations:
When analyzing results, compare the overlay histogram showing cells stained with P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated versus isotype control to identify positive populations .
Consider using median fluorescence intensity (MFI) for quantitative comparisons rather than percent positive cells, especially for proteins with variable expression levels.
Special considerations for FITC:
A sample flow cytometry protocol based on successful experiments with other P3H2 antibodies includes cell fixation, permeabilization, blocking, antibody incubation (30 min at 20°C), and analysis with appropriate controls .
When encountering issues with weak signal or high background using P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated, implement the following troubleshooting strategies:
For Weak Signal:
Antibody concentration:
Antigen accessibility:
Incubation conditions:
Extend primary antibody incubation time (e.g., overnight at 4°C instead of 1-2 hours at room temperature).
Ensure all incubations are performed with gentle agitation to promote antibody binding.
Detection system:
Sample handling:
For High Background:
Blocking optimization:
Washing protocol:
Increase number or duration of wash steps.
Add 0.05-0.1% Tween-20 to wash buffer to reduce non-specific interactions.
Antibody dilution:
If background is high despite weak specific signal, try a more dilute antibody solution with longer incubation time.
Remove any antibody aggregates by centrifuging the diluted antibody before application.
Autofluorescence reduction:
For tissues with high autofluorescence, pre-treat with solutions like Sudan Black B (0.1-0.3%) or commercial autofluorescence quenchers.
For flow cytometry, use appropriate gating strategies and controls to distinguish specific signal from autofluorescence.
Cross-reactivity assessment:
Systematic adjustment of these parameters while keeping careful records of modifications will help identify the optimal conditions for your specific experimental system.
When conducting collagen research involving P3H2, researchers must consider the relative advantages of FITC-conjugated versus unconjugated P3H2 antibodies:
Advantages of FITC-conjugated P3H2 antibodies:
Direct detection:
Quantitative applications:
Spatial resolution:
Direct labeling can provide better spatial resolution for high-resolution microscopy applications examining P3H2 co-localization with collagen structures.
Flow cytometry:
Advantages of unconjugated P3H2 antibodies:
Versatility:
Signal amplification:
Secondary antibody binding allows for signal amplification, which may be critical for detecting low levels of P3H2 in certain tissues or experimental conditions.
Particularly important for tissues with lower P3H2 expression or when studying subtle changes in expression levels.
Greater application data:
Stability:
Application-specific recommendations:
For co-localization studies with collagen: FITC-conjugated antibody may be preferable for direct visualization of P3H2 in relation to collagen structures, especially when using multiple markers.
For expression level analysis: Unconjugated antibody with signal amplification may be better for detecting subtle differences in P3H2 expression across different collagen disease models.
For high-throughput screening: FITC-conjugated antibody offers streamlined protocols for screening multiple samples or conditions.
For novel tissue/sample types: Begin with unconjugated antibody due to broader validation data, then transition to FITC-conjugated for specific applications after initial characterization.
Selection should be guided by the specific research question, required sensitivity, and experimental design considerations in your collagen research program.
Detecting P3H2 in tissues with low expression levels requires specialized methodological approaches to enhance sensitivity while maintaining specificity:
Optimized sample preparation:
Fresh samples are preferred when possible, as P3H2 epitopes may be sensitive to prolonged fixation.
For fixed tissues, optimize fixation time (typically 24-48 hours in 10% neutral buffered formalin) to prevent overfixation.
Section thickness of 4-5 μm provides optimal balance between signal intensity and resolution.
Enhanced antigen retrieval:
Heat-mediated antigen retrieval using EDTA buffer (pH 8.0) has shown success with P3H2 antibodies .
For challenging samples, consider extending antigen retrieval time (20-30 minutes) or using pressure-based systems.
Alternative methods include TE buffer pH 9.0 or citrate buffer pH 6.0 as recommended for some human tissues .
Signal amplification systems:
For tissues with very low P3H2 expression, consider using a two-step approach:
Tyramide signal amplification (TSA) can enhance fluorescence signal 10-100 fold.
Advanced microscopy techniques:
Confocal microscopy can improve signal-to-noise ratio by eliminating out-of-focus light.
Super-resolution microscopy techniques may help distinguish genuine low-level P3H2 signal from background.
Deconvolution algorithms can enhance signal detection in standard fluorescence microscopy.
Extended antibody incubation:
Longer primary antibody incubation times (overnight at 4°C rather than 1-2 hours at room temperature) may enhance binding to low-abundance targets.
Higher antibody concentration with longer incubation at colder temperatures can improve sensitivity without increasing background.
Specialized detection systems:
For extremely low expression, consider indirect immunofluorescence with amplification steps rather than direct FITC detection.
Quantum dots or other photostable, bright fluorophores may provide better detection limits than FITC.
Complementary validation approaches:
Confirm low-level P3H2 expression using orthogonal methods (RT-PCR, Western blot) to validate immunostaining results.
Use bioinformatic data from expression databases to select positive control tissues with known expression levels.
These methodological refinements should be systematically tested and optimized for your specific tissue type and research question to achieve maximum sensitivity for P3H2 detection.
Designing experiments to investigate the relationship between P3H2 activity and collagen disorders requires a multifaceted approach that combines molecular, cellular, and tissue-level analyses:
Expression analysis in pathological samples:
Compare P3H2 expression using FITC-conjugated antibodies in normal versus diseased tissues (e.g., fibrotic tissues, myxoid liposarcoma).
Quantify expression differences using standardized image analysis tools.
Experimental design:
Collect matched normal and diseased tissues
Perform immunofluorescence with P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated
Counter-stain with collagen markers
Quantify co-localization and expression levels
Functional studies in cellular models:
Knockdown/Knockout approaches:
Use siRNA, shRNA, or CRISPR-Cas9 to reduce or eliminate P3H2 expression
Analyze effects on collagen synthesis, modification, and secretion
Assess 3-hydroxyproline content in secreted collagens
Overexpression studies:
Transfect cells with P3H2 expression constructs
Evaluate impact on collagen hydroxylation and fibril formation
Assess extracellular matrix organization
Biochemical analysis of enzymatic activity:
Develop assays to measure P3H2 hydroxylation activity on different collagen substrates.
Compare enzyme kinetics between wild-type and mutant forms associated with collagen disorders.
Experimental approach:
Express and purify recombinant P3H2 (wild-type and mutants)
Incubate with collagen peptide substrates
Measure 3-hydroxyproline formation using mass spectrometry
Co-localization and interaction studies:
Use P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated in combination with antibodies against other collagen-modifying enzymes.
Perform proximity ligation assays to detect protein-protein interactions.
Immunoprecipitation (IP) followed by mass spectrometry to identify P3H2 binding partners in normal versus diseased states.
In vivo models:
Develop or utilize existing P3H2-deficient animal models.
Characterize collagen structure and tissue mechanical properties.
Induce collagen-related challenges (wound healing, fibrosis induction) and observe responses.
Translational approaches:
Correlate P3H2
expression/activity with clinical parameters in collagen-related disorders.
Screen for compounds that modulate P3H2 activity as potential therapeutic candidates.
Develop biomarkers based on P3H2 activity or modified collagen products.
Experimental workflow example:
For investigating P3H2 in a fibrotic disorder model:
Establish baseline P3H2 expression in normal tissues using P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated
Induce fibrosis in animal model or cell culture
Monitor temporal changes in P3H2 expression and localization
Manipulate P3H2 levels (up or down) during fibrosis progression
Analyze outcomes on collagen deposition, cross-linking, and tissue function
Correlate findings with human pathological samples
This comprehensive approach enables researchers to establish both correlative and causal relationships between P3H2 activity and collagen disorders while leveraging the specificity and detection capabilities of P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated.
Accurate quantification of P3H2 expression using FITC-conjugated antibodies requires rigorous methodology and appropriate controls. Here are the best practices for different experimental platforms:
Fluorescence Microscopy Quantification:
Sample preparation standardization:
Process all samples (control and experimental) simultaneously with identical fixation, permeabilization, and staining protocols.
Prepare sections of uniform thickness (typically 4-5 μm for tissue sections).
Image acquisition parameters:
Use identical acquisition settings (exposure time, gain, offset) for all samples within an experiment.
Avoid saturated pixels which prevent accurate quantification.
Include fluorescence calibration standards in each imaging session.
Analysis approach:
Define consistent regions of interest (ROIs) based on morphological markers.
Measure both mean fluorescence intensity and integrated density (area × mean intensity).
Subtract background fluorescence from neighboring negative areas.
Controls and normalization:
Include unstained controls to measure autofluorescence.
Normalize P3H2 signal to a housekeeping protein or DAPI for nuclear density normalization.
Include positive control samples with known P3H2 expression in each experiment.
Flow Cytometry Quantification:
Instrument calibration:
Use calibration beads to standardize PMT voltages and fluorescence intensity scales.
Establish a fluorescence quantification standard curve using beads with defined molecules of equivalent soluble fluorochrome (MESF).
Gating strategy:
Quantification metrics:
Report median fluorescence intensity (MFI) rather than mean (less sensitive to outliers).
Calculate relative expression using stimulation index (sample MFI ÷ control MFI).
For heterogeneous populations, report both percentage of positive cells and MFI of positive fraction.
Quality control:
Run single-stained controls for compensation settings.
Include fluorescence-minus-one (FMO) controls to set gates accurately.
Monitor coefficient of variation (CV) of positive populations.
ELISA-based Quantification:
Standard curve generation:
Prepare a standard curve using recombinant P3H2 protein.
Ensure standard curve encompasses the expected range of sample concentrations.
Assay optimization:
Determine optimal antibody concentration through checkerboard titration.
Validate assay linearity, precision, accuracy, and detection limits.
Sample preparation:
Process all samples identically with consistent protein extraction protocols.
Measure total protein concentration and normalize loading amounts.
Data Analysis and Reporting Best Practices:
Statistical considerations:
Report biological and technical replicates separately.
Use appropriate statistical tests based on data distribution.
Report effect sizes along with p-values.
Visualization standards:
Present quantitative data with individual data points rather than just averages.
Include representative images showing the range of expression patterns.
Use consistent color scales for fluorescence intensity representation.
Methodology reporting:
Document detailed antibody information (catalog number, lot number, concentration used).
Specify image acquisition parameters and analysis software details.
Describe normalization methodology and justification.
Following these best practices ensures reliable and reproducible quantification of P3H2 expression across different experimental systems and enables meaningful comparisons between studies.
The field of P3H2 research using fluorescently-labeled antibodies, including FITC-conjugated versions, is poised for several promising future directions that leverage technological advances and expanding biological understanding:
Single-cell analysis applications:
Integration of P3H2 detection in single-cell proteomics workflows to characterize heterogeneity in collagen-producing cell populations.
Combining P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated with single-cell RNA sequencing technologies to correlate protein expression with transcriptional profiles at individual cell resolution.
Advanced imaging applications:
Implementation of super-resolution microscopy techniques (STORM, PALM, STED) to visualize P3H2 localization with nanometer precision relative to collagen processing machinery.
Live-cell imaging using membrane-permeable P3H2 antibody fragments to track dynamic changes in P3H2 distribution during collagen synthesis and secretion.
High-throughput screening platforms:
Development of automated imaging pipelines using P3H2 Antibody, FITC conjugated for drug discovery screens targeting collagen disorders.
Creating biosensor systems that monitor P3H2 activity in real-time based on antibody binding characteristics and FRET technologies.
Clinical diagnostic applications:
Standardization of P3H2 immunofluorescence protocols for diagnostic evaluation of collagen disorders.
Development of quantitative image analysis algorithms specific for P3H2 detection that could assist in classification of collagen-related pathologies.
Multi-omics integration:
Correlation of P3H2 protein localization data with genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic datasets to build comprehensive models of collagen regulation in health and disease.
Integration with extracellular matrix proteomics to understand the relationship between P3H2 activity and the composition of tissue-specific matrisomes.
Technological improvements:
Development of P3H2 antibodies conjugated to next-generation fluorophores with superior brightness, photostability, and spectral characteristics compared to FITC.
Creation of switchable or environmentally-sensitive fluorescent P3H2 antibodies that can report on enzyme activation or microenvironment conditions.
Comparative and evolutionary studies:
Investigation of P3H2 conservation and specialization across species using cross-reactive fluorescent antibodies.
Understanding the evolutionary adaptation of P3H2 function in diverse tissue contexts and species with varying collagen requirements.
These emerging research directions promise to expand our understanding of P3H2 biology and its role in collagen-related processes, potentially leading to new diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies for disorders involving aberrant collagen modification and assembly.
Standardizing P3H2 antibody validation, including FITC-conjugated versions, represents an important goal for ensuring reproducible and comparable research outcomes. Researchers can contribute to this standardization through several approaches:
Comprehensive validation reporting:
Document and publish detailed antibody validation data, including:
Specificity tests (Western blot, peptide competition, KO/KD controls)
Sensitivity assessments across concentration ranges
Cross-reactivity evaluations with related proteins (P3H1, P3H3)
Lot-to-lot variation analysis
Share validation data in antibody validation repositories and databases.
Method standardization:
Develop and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for P3H2 detection across applications.
Clearly report key methodological parameters, including:
Sample preparation details (fixation type/duration, permeabilization method)
Antibody concentration and incubation conditions
Detection systems and imaging parameters
Analysis workflows and software tools
Reference material development:
Establish common positive and negative control samples for P3H2 detection.
Create standard recombinant P3H2 proteins with defined modifications for calibration.
Develop reference cell lines with controlled P3H2 expression levels.
Cross-laboratory validation initiatives:
Participate in multi-center antibody validation studies.
Contribute to ring trials where identical samples are analyzed across different laboratories.
Support efforts to create consensus guidelines for P3H2 antibody validation.
Integration with existing standards organizations:
Align P3H2 antibody validation with guidelines from organizations such as:
The International Working Group for Antibody Validation (IWGAV)
The Global Biological Standards Institute (GBSI)
The Human Protein Atlas Antibody Validation Initiative
Technology development:
Develop orthogonal validation technologies for P3H2 detection.
Create multiplexed approaches that simultaneously validate multiple aspects of antibody performance.
Support open-source tools for antibody validation data analysis and sharing.
Educational and training initiatives:
Develop educational resources on best practices for P3H2 antibody validation.
Conduct workshops and training sessions on standardized validation protocols.
Mentor early-career researchers in rigorous antibody validation practices.
Publication and review practices:
As authors: Include comprehensive validation data in manuscripts and supplementary materials.
As reviewers: Require adequate validation data for P3H2 antibodies used in submitted manuscripts.
Support journals implementing antibody validation reporting requirements.