Bio-Rad Human MMP and TIMP Assays - Manual (Page 3)

Introduction
Bio-Plex Pro ™ Human TIMP Assays
The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc proteases
with essential roles in breaking down components of the extracellular
matrix (ECM). The MMPs are inhibited by specific endogenous tissue
inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), which are a family of four protease
inhibitors: TIMP-1, TIMP-2, TIMP-3, and TIMP-4. The balance between
MMP and TIMP levels is crucial for the timely degradation of ECM.
MMPs and TIMPs play important roles in tissue remodeling associated
with various physiological and pathological processes such as
inflammation, apoptosis, morphogenesis, angiogenesis, tumor invasion,
and metastasis. The new MMP and TIMP panels will expand the
Bio-Plex Pro assay menu in research areas including cancer, autoimmune
disease, wound healing, and cardiovascular disease.
Advantages of Magnetic Bead-Based Assays
Products in the Bio-Plex Pro family of assays are on magnetic polystyrene
beads. These beads provide a choice in the method of assay preparation —
standard or magnet-based. The standard workflow for Bio-Plex assay
preparation requires multiple wash steps in which the 96-well filter plate
is placed on a vacuum manifold to draw the liquid through the bottom of
the filter plate. In contrast, magnet-based assay preparation permits
liquid removal from the top of the well and thus does not require a filter
plate or vacuum manifold. As a result, either an automated or manual
washer can be used. Bio-Rad offers both solutions with the automated
Bio-Plex Pro wash station and the manual Bio-Plex handheld magnetic
washer. Magnetic separation offers greater convenience and reproducibility
compared to vacuum filtration.
For a current listing of Bio-Plex assays, panels, and reagents, please visit
www.bio-rad.com/bio-plex.
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