A comprehensive guide to western blotting for tendon research.

ABSTRACT

Tendons are classified as dense fibrous connective tissue. This fibrous composition poses challenges in protein extraction, particularly hindering the application of Western blotting techniques. Because of these challenges, it becomes necessary to implement additional steps and specific solutions to attain success in this methodology with the tissue in question. The objective of this article is to provide a detailed protocol, elucidating each step, and making it easily replicable for researchers. The study focused on the Achilles tendons of Sprague-Dawley rats, emphasizing the need for a tailored approach in working with this tissue. By addressing the nuances of protein extraction from the dense and fibrous tendons, our protocol aims to facilitate the reproducibility of Western blotting experiments, contributing to a better understanding of this tissue.