protein

Protein protein interactions in vivo are a tough phenomenon to capture. However, there are special ways to identify proteins that are capable of interacting in vivo. One approach is a method called co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP). This is an extension off of the simplistic approach of western blotting, or, immunoblotting. This technique takes advantage of biology at its core. Scientist have developed a method to engineer antibodies that are capable to bind to whatever target, or antigen that is desired. The process begins by injecting the target protein into a host (rabbit, goat, donkey, etc…), which then generates antibodies that bind to the “foreign” protein. The animal is then bled, and syrum is isolated, and the specific protein (primary antibody) is purified. The secondary antibody is synthesized in a specific manner, where it targets the “species-specific” portion of the primary antibody (anti-rat, goat secondary). Once the appropriate / specific antibodies have been made, immunoblotting can ensue.