Select the immunogen

Living higher organisms have the ability to defend themselves against foreign molecular bodies through their immune system. One of these defense mechanisms involve the production of antibodies that are able to bind specifically to these bodies.

The molecules that are able to trigger an immune response are then called immunogens.

The choice of the immunogen against which the antibody you expect will be directed is one of the most critical. Whatever the conditions in which you plan to use your antibody and the properties of the target, the success rate of an antibody development project relies greatly on the characteristics of the immunogen.

Select the host species

The choice of the most adapted host depends upon several parameters, among others:

• the nature and properties (e.g. inter-species homology) of the immunogen,
• the application for which you expect to use the antibody and its particular conditions (e.g. double staining),
• the final amount of antibody you require.

Each host has its own advantages and disadvantages and must be carefully considered before starting an immunisation protocol. Feel free to contact our to get advice for your project. Our 20-year experience in antibody development will help you make the right decision!

Select the clonality

Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies have their own advantages and drawbacks. Depending on the characteristics of your project, only one of them is adapted to your needs. Numerous criteria such as final use or expected specificity must be carefully studied before making your choice.

Read the comparison between polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to help you decide which of them you need for your project.