Biotin-labeled proteins in U937 and BHK cell lysates were analyzed by western blot using HRP-conjugated goat anti-biotin.
Anti-Biotin antibody produced in goat has been used in multi-well plate assay, to identify desthiobiotinylating (analog of biotin) proteins. It has also been used in Colourimetric enzyme immunoassay.
Biotin is considered as an essential nutrient, though it is know to be secreted by some of the intestinal bacteria. It is found in liver and brain tissues in minute quantities.
Biotin serves as a cofactor for carboxylases, necessary for oxidative metabolism. Biotin absorption in small intestine is reduced on consumption of avidin rich food such as egg white. Thus, greatly decreasing its bioavailability, leading to egg white injury. Reduced levels of biotin is normally observed during pregnancy. Biotin deficiency might be congenital, with defective proteins involved in biotin homeostasis.
