Monoclonal Antibody Production and Applications

This topic provides an in-depth exploration of monoclonal antibody (mAb) technology, a cornerstone of contemporary immunology and biotechnology taught at the university level. It details the historical hybridoma technique developed by Köhler and Milstein, explaining the fusion of B-lymphocytes with myeloma cells and subsequent selection in HAT medium. The curriculum covers both in vitro and in vivo (ascites) production methods, comparing their yields and purity. Furthermore, the topic extensively reviews the vast applications of monoclonal antibodies in tertiary-level practice, including protein purification, diagnostic reagents, tumour imaging and therapy, flow cytometry, and the development of catalytic antibodies and single-chain Fv fragments. For Zambian students pursuing degrees in biomedical sciences, this knowledge is pivotal for engaging with cutting-edge diagnostics, therapeutics, and research, enhancing their employability in the health sector and biotechnology industry.