Anti-COMP Polyclonal Antibody for WB, IF/ICC, ELISA - P49747

Core Product Specifications and Parameters

Biological Background: COMP Function and Localization

• Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), also known as Thrombospondin-5 (TSP5), is a pentameric glycoprotein belonging to the thrombospondin family. It plays a critical role in the structural integrity of cartilage by interacting with collagens and fibronectin within the extracellular matrix (ECM).
• COMP mediates chondrocyte-ECM adhesion by binding to cell surface integrin receptors, influencing cellular behavior and tissue homeostasis. This interaction has been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis. Related references: PMID:16051604 PMID:16542502
• It functions as a potent suppressor of apoptosis in primary chondrocytes and transformed cells by blocking caspase-3 activation and upregulating inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family proteins such as BIRC2, BIRC3, BIRC5, and XIAP. Related references: PMID:17993464
• In vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), COMP is essential for maintaining a contractile/differentiated phenotype through interaction with integrin α7. This function is critical under both physiological and pathological conditions.
• Subcellularly, COMP is secreted and localized to the extracellular space and ECM. It is abundantly expressed in chondrocytes, with additional presence in bone, tendon, ligament, synovium, and blood vessels. Expression increases in late-stage osteoarthritis near cartilage defects.
• The protein undergoes alternative splicing and contains EGF-like domains, a coiled-coil region, and multiple calcium-binding sites. Post-translational modifications include disulfide bond formation and glycosylation.

Experimental Guidance and Technical Tips

• The immunogen corresponds to amino acids 20–160 of human COMP, a region near the N-terminal pentamerization domain. This design typically yields antibodies recognizing both full-length COMP and any processed forms containing this epitope.
• For Western blot (WB), a band at approximately 83 kDa is expected under reducing conditions. However, due to the pentameric structure and extensive glycosylation, running appropriate molecular weight markers and reducing agents is advised.
• In immunofluorescence/immunocytochemistry (IF/ICC), COMP is predominantly extracellular, so permeabilization may not be necessary, but optimization for your specific cell type and fixation method is recommended.
• For ELISA, the polyclonal nature provides robust detection sensitivity, but pairing with a monoclonal capture antibody may improve specificity in sandwich assays. Validate in the relevant sample system (e.g., synovial fluid, chondrocyte lysates).
• Cross-reactivity with mouse and rat makes this antibody suitable for translational studies in rodent models of osteoarthritis and cardiovascular disease. Confirm tissue-specific expression patterns in your experimental model.

CamelBio: Your One-Stop Sourcing Bridge

CamelBio serves as a comprehensive sourcing partner for IVD manufacturers and research laboratories, offering validated antibody pairs, optimized monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, bulk ancillary reagents, and rare target raw materials. With a focus on cartilage biology and extracellular matrix targets like COMP, we streamline procurement—from concept to clinic—ensuring consistent quality and supply chain reliability. Whether you need diagnostic-grade antibodies or technical consultation, CamelBio bridges the gap between research discovery and clinical application.