AnaSpec FRET-based MMP Substrates Used in Double Differential <i>In Vivo</i> Zymography

Utilizing AnaSpec’s proprietary detection technologies, AnaSpec FRET-based MMP substrates were recently used in a double differential in vivo zymography study at the University of New Brunswick.

In the study by Dr. Bryan Crawford, a mixture of QXL™ 570/5-TAMRA-labeled Peptide I incorporating a red fluorophore, and QXL™ 520/5-FAM-labeled Peptide XIII incorporating a green fluorophore were used to detect differential breakdown of the two different MMP substrates in zebrafish. Peptide I was broken down mostly in the maturing myotome boundaries, whereas Peptide XIII was broken down much more strongly in the notochord sheath.

Synthetic FRET peptide substrates provide a reliable method for monitoring enzyme activity by following substrate cleavage. Through the innovative work of researchers such as Dr. Crawford, the applications of AnaSpec’s FRET technologies continue to be expanded.