Monoclonal Antibodies

• What is the first step in producing monoclonal antibodies?

  A mouse is injected with a specific antigen to stimulate lymphocytes
• What happens to the lymphocytes after they are stimulated by the antigen?

  The lymphocytes are combined with tumor cells, which divide
• What are hybridoma cells?

  Cells made by combining lymphocytes with tumor cells
• What do hybridoma cells produce?

  Specific antibodies and they also divide
• What is done with single hybridoma cells after they are created?

  They are cloned to produce the same antibody
• What is the final step in the production of monoclonal antibodies?

  Monoclonal antibodies are purified and ready to use
• What are the steps involved in the production of monoclonal antibodies?

  1. Inject a mouse with a specific antigen
  2. Combine stimulated lymphocytes with tumor cells
  3. Create hybridoma cells that produce specific antibodies
  4. Clone single hybridoma cells
  5. Purify monoclonal antibodies for use