Types of Antibodies

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Types of Antibodies

Each primary antibody identifies and attaches to a specific target (antigen).
The epitope is the region of the antigen that is the “landing site” for the antibody.
Antibodies are categorized as monoclonal or polyclonal. Antibodies used in histology clinical testing are most commonly monoclonal, raised in mice or polyclonal, raised in rabbits. Monoclonal rabbit antibodies are a relatively new variation now available for use in clinical applications. Both monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies are produced by exposing the host animal to an antigen and then harvesting and purifying the antibody. Mice and rabbits are the typical host animals for production of antibodies; however, sheep, guinea pigs, or other animal species may also be used as hosts.
Image: Adenovirus infected liver demonstrated with mouse IgG1 monoclonal antibody cocktail of clones 2/6 and 20/11. DAB chromogen.