Monoclonal antibodies

Question 1

What are monoclonal antibodies?

Answer 1

Identical copies of one type of antibody.

Question 2

How are monoclonal antibodies made?

Answer 2

1. A mouse is injected with a chosen antigen.
2. B-lymphocytes are taken from the mouse and fused with tumour cells to make a hybridoma.
3. The hybridoma divides to produce clones that produce the monoclonal antibodies.
4. The antibodies are collected and purified.

Question 3

Where can monoclonal antibodies be used?

Answer 3

In pregnancy tests.

Question 4

What colour does the strip go on a positive pregnancy test?

Answer 4

Blue.