PICP-Procollagen Type I C-Terminal Propeptide |Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

Procollagen type I carboxy-terminal propeptide (PICP), derived from type I procollagen, has been identified as an indicator of type I collagen synthesis in bone matrix formation and skin recovery. PICP is a heterotrimeric glycoprotein consisting of two α1 chains (PICPα1) and one α2 chain (PICPα2).PICP is delivered into the blood, where it can be measured. Correlates with bone collagen synthesis and bone formation rate. Measurement of PICP levels is commonly used in clinical practice to assess collagen synthesis. Elevated levels of PICP may indicate increased collagen synthesis, which can occur during periods of bone growth, fracture healing, or conditions involving excessive collagen production (e.g., fibrosis). Conversely, decreased levels of PICP may suggest impaired collagen synthesis, which can be indicative of bone disorders like osteoporosis or conditions affecting connective tissues. PICP levels are often measured alongside other biomarkers like N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP) and bone resorption markers (e.g., C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen, CTX) to assess bone turnover and predict fracture risk. These measurements are commonly used in conditions such as osteoporosis to guide treatment decisions and monitor response to therapy.

Protein Structure:

• Composition: PICP is a non-collagenous peptide composed of approximately 100-200 amino acids.
• Domains: It is the C-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I, which is cleaved during the conversion of procollagen to mature collagen.
• Post-Translational Modifications: PICP is cleaved from the procollagen molecule by specific proteinases before the collagen fibers are formed.

Classification and Subtypes:

• Family: PICP is part of the collagen family, specifically associated with type I collagen.
• Isoforms: There are no known significant isoforms of PICP, as it is a specific cleavage product of procollagen type I.

Function and Biological Significance:

• Collagen Synthesis Marker: PICP serves as a biomarker for the rate of type I collagen synthesis. Elevated levels of PICP indicate increased collagen synthesis, which is crucial in various physiological and pathological conditions.
• Bone Formation: PICP levels correlate with bone formation rates. It is particularly significant in monitoring conditions such as osteoporosis and the effectiveness of treatments aimed at enhancing bone formation.
• Tissue Repair: Increased PICP levels can also indicate tissue repair processes, as collagen is a major component of the extracellular matrix in healing tissues.

Interactions:

• Collagen Processing Enzymes: PICP is released upon the action of procollagen C-proteinases, which cleave the C-terminal propeptide from procollagen type I.
• Bone Remodeling Cells: Osteoblasts, the bone-forming cells, are primarily responsible for the synthesis and secretion of type I procollagen, and thus the production of PICP.

Clinical Issues:

• Osteoporosis: PICP is a useful biomarker for diagnosing and monitoring osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone mass and increased fracture risk. High levels of PICP may indicate active bone formation or turnover.
• Bone Disorders: PICP levels are also relevant in other bone disorders, such as Paget’s disease and bone metastasis, where bone remodeling is significantly altered.
• Monitoring Therapy: PICP is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases, including bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, and other bone anabolic agents.
• Fibrosis: Elevated PICP levels can be indicative of fibrotic conditions, where excessive collagen deposition occurs in organs such as the liver, lungs, and heart.

Summary:

Procollagen Type I C-Terminal Propeptide (PICP) is a vital biomarker for the synthesis of type I collagen, playing a significant role in bone formation and tissue repair. Its levels in the blood provide insights into bone remodeling and the effectiveness of treatments for bone-related diseases such as osteoporosis. Additionally, PICP can indicate fibrotic processes in various organs, making it a valuable tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of multiple clinical conditions. Understanding the role and measurement of PICP helps in the effective management of bone health and fibrotic diseases.