Monoclonal antibodies are produced by immunizing a mouse with a particular antigen, then removing its spleen. Individual B cells producing mouse antibodies specific for the antigen are isolated from the spleen, then fused with cancer cells. Each of the resulting hybrid cells can be cloned, which means it can be cultured indefinitely in the laboratory. The resulting cell lines produce and secrete antibodies that recognize the antigen to which the mouse was immunized. These antibodies are called monoclonal antibodies. Some monoclonal antibodies are used for passive immunization. They are effective, but only in the immediate term. Antibodies that are produced by one’s own immune system can last up to about six months in the bloodstream, but those delivered in passive immunization often last for less than a week. Why the difference?

Human Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Course List)
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305251052
Author:Michael Cummings
Publisher:Michael Cummings
Chapter17: Genes And The Immune System
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 10QP: The Adaptive Immune Response Is a Specific Defense Against Infection Researchers have been having a...
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Monoclonal antibodies are produced by immunizing a mouse with a particular antigen, then removing its spleen. Individual B cells producing mouse antibodies specific for the antigen are isolated from the spleen, then fused with cancer cells. Each of the resulting hybrid cells can be cloned, which means it can be cultured indefinitely in the laboratory. The resulting cell lines produce and secrete antibodies that recognize the antigen to which the mouse was immunized. These antibodies are called monoclonal antibodies. Some monoclonal antibodies are used for passive immunization. They are effective, but only in the immediate term. Antibodies that are produced by one’s own immune system can last up to about six months in the bloodstream, but those delivered in passive immunization often last for less than a week. Why the difference? 

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