Serum Type IV Collagen Assay
Serum type IV collagen is a distinct collagen located primarily within the basement membranes of the human body, serving as a vital component of the extracellular matrix. Its measurement is principally applied in the evaluation of renal diseases such as chronic kidney disease and diabetic nephropathy, as well as other conditions associated with basement membrane impairment, including liver cirrhosis and heart failure.
Detection Method
The evaluation of serum type IV collagen predominantly utilizes the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The procedural steps are detailed as follows:
1. The serum sample is introduced into a plate pre-coated with anti-human collagen antibodies.
2. A secondary antibody conjugated with an enzyme label, typically horseradish peroxidase (HRP), binds to the collagen present in the sample.
3. An enzymatic reaction ensues, producing a color whose intensity is directly proportional to the collagen concentration in the sample.
4. A spectrophotometer measures the color intensity of each well, calculating the collagen concentration present in the sample.
Clinical Significance
Elevated serum type IV collagen concentrations generally denote increased basement membrane damage. In the context of renal pathology, it assists in evaluating the extent of kidney injury, directing therapeutic interventions, and forecasting disease progression. Furthermore, in conditions like liver cirrhosis and heart failure, it serves as a crucial biomarker for assessing disease severity and prognosis.
Precautions
The assessment of serum type IV collagen is intended for informational use and should not substitute for a clinical diagnosis. Patients are advised to adhere to medical guidance and undergo supplementary diagnostic procedures to enable precise diagnosis and management by healthcare providers.
Reference Values
Normal serum type IV collagen concentrations in healthy individuals range from 20 to 200 ng/ml. However, reference values may vary slightly depending on laboratory practices and detection methodologies, thus it is imperative to adhere to the reference values provided by the testing laboratory.
MtoZ Biolabs, an integrated chromatography and mass spectrometry (MS) services provider.
Related Services
How to order?