Collagens (types I, II, III, IV and V) are synthesized as precursor molecules called procollagens. These contain propeptide sequences, at both the amino-terminal and the carboxy-terminal ends. The function of these propeptides is to facilitate the winding of procollagen molecules into a triple-helical conformation within the endoplasmic reticulum. The propeptides are cleaved off from the collagen triple helix moleculeduring its secretion. The triple helix collagens then polymerize into extracellular collagen fibrils.Clones PC5-5 and PC8-7 recognize procollagen type I C-peptide. They are suitable for the detection of non-denatured antigen released in tissue culture media and for monitoring of collagen synthesis.
