B3.2. Monoclonal antibodies Flashcards
How are monoclonal antibodies made?
From a single clone of B-lymphocyte (B-cell) cell.
What do antibodies recognise?
Antigens - part of a specific chemical or cell in the body.
What name is given to the section of the antibody that does this?
The antigen binding site.
What is a hybridoma cell?
The combination of a lymphocyte and a tumour cell.
Why are hybridoma cells created?
They have the ability to create the required antibody and divide rapidly.
Once one hybridoma is made, what is then done with it?
Cloned to create many identical cells.
Name 4 possible uses of monoclonal antibodies.
“1. For pregnancy tests/diagnosis
- Measurement of hormone/chemical/pathogen levels in the blood
- Research to identify specific molecules in cells or tissues by binding with fluorescent dyes
- Treatment of some diseases like cancer”
How can antibodies be used to treat conditions such as cancer?
Bind radioactive/toxic substances that are able to stop cells growing and dividing. The antibody will bind specifically to the cancer cells and deliver the substances without harming the other body cells.
