Monoclonal Antibodies: Principles and Applications

Principles and Applications

Edited by J. R. Birch and E. S. Lennox

In recent years, the advent of PCR technology and protein engineering, with the expansion and improvement of the techniques involved in gene expression, has enabled the manufacture of monoclonal antibodies tailor-made against any selected antigen. Advances in the chemical modification of monoclonal antibodies allow the creation of reporter molecules for diagnostic purposes and effector molecules with therapeutic potential.

Monoclonal Antibodies: Principles and Applications is an applied text covering the principles of monoclonal antibody engineering, production, modification, and their wide use in immunoassays, immunoaffinity purification, and diagnostic imaging. The potential of monoclonal antibodies as therapeutic agents in the treatment of cancer, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and in the prevention of transplanted organ rejection is also explored throughout. Chapters on biosafety considerations and the patenting of monoclonal antibodies will be of particular relevance to those working within the biotechnology industry and to basic researchers interested in developing monoclonal antibodies for commercial use.

Monoclonal Antibodies: Principles and Applications

• Provides nonspecialists with a broad-based introduction to monoclonal antibodies
• Features the most up-to-date introduction to the field available
• Includes a section on safety issues when working within the biotechnology industries

This easy reference to all key aspects of monoclonal antibody applications and technology will be essential reading for biotechnologists and researchers in immunology, molecular biology, and protein chemistry.