monoclonal antibodies

• how to make monoclonal antibodies?

  • lymphocytes that make specific antibodies but can't divide are combined with tumour cells that divide
  • this creates a hybridoma cell - produces antibodies and divides. these are cloned
  • monoclonal antibodies are separated, purified and then used
• how are monoclonal antibodies used in pregnancy test?

  • HCG is produced in early stages of pregnancy and are passed out in urine
  • if present, the monoclonal antibodies bind to the hormone and give a positive result
• how can monoclonal antibodies treat disease?

  • triggers the immune system to recognise, attack and destroy cancer cells
  • monoclonal antibodies can block receptors on the surface of cancer cells to stop them from growing and dividing
  • monoclonal antibodies can carry toxic drugs or radioactive substances to the cancer cell without harming other bodily cells
• how can monoclonal antibodies diagnose disease?

  • they have markers so that doctors can see where they have built up
  • used in hospitals and labs to measure levels of hormones and chemicals in the blood
  • scientists can use monoclonal antibodies to locate or identify specific molecules in a cell or tissue