Antibodies For In Vivo Research

The use of antibodies for in vivo research and the development of functional studies considerably expand the scope of immunoglobulins beyond in vitro immunoassays .

In in vivo studies , the antibodies can be used on living cells or in whole animals by injection, with the aim of depleting a certain cell type, blocking receptors or inducing cellular activation to carry out functional studies.

Antibodies for in vivo research are generally monoclonal in type, are produced in bulk (bulk) quantities from hybridomas, and are thoroughly purified to remove potential remains of cell culture reagents and other potential contaminants that may interfere with preclinical assays.

Characteristics Of Antibodies For In Vivo Research

As we have said, in vivo research requires the application of antibodies directly to living organisms. For this reason, these reagents must meet certain specifications that are not usually common in antibodies for in vitro immunoassays such as ELISA , Western Blot , Immunohistochemistry or flow cytometry, among others.

The specifications to be met by antibodies for in vivo research include:

  • Very low endotoxin level (<2 EU / mg)
  • High purity (> 95%)
  • Be free of murine pathogens
  • Azide free
  • Free of compounds that can interfere in in vivo tests , such as preservatives, stabilizers, etc.
  • Presented in high concentrations (˃1mg / ml)

In conclusion, antibodies are fundamental reagents for biomedical research, not only in in vitro immunoassays , but also for conducting in vivo studies and functional assays. Their high sensitivity and specificity, their relatively easy production and the flexibility in the applications in which they can be used, make these reagents invaluable tools.