This definitions covers Key Definitions within Monoclonal Antibodies for GCSE Biology. Production and medical applications of identical antibodies, hybridoma cells, diagnostics It is section 11 of 17 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 11 of 17
Practice
15 questions
Recall
18 flashcards
Key Definitions
Monoclonal antibody: An antibody produced by a single clone of hybridoma cells. All monoclonal antibodies are identical and bind to the same specific antigen. They can be produced in unlimited quantities.
Hybridoma cell: A cell formed by the fusion of a B lymphocyte (which produces specific antibodies) with a myeloma (cancer) cell (which divides indefinitely). Hybridoma cells can produce specific antibodies in unlimited quantities.
Myeloma cell: A cancerous plasma cell that divides indefinitely in culture. Fused with B cells to create hybridoma cells for monoclonal antibody production.
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin): A hormone produced by the developing embryo and placenta only during pregnancy. The specific antigen detected by monoclonal antibodies in pregnancy tests.
Polyclonal antibody: A mixture of antibodies produced by different B cell clones, each recognising a different epitope on the same antigen. Less specific and less consistent than monoclonal antibodies.
ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): A diagnostic test using monoclonal antibodies linked to enzymes to detect the presence of specific antigens or antibodies in a sample (e.g., detecting HIV antibodies in blood).
Immunoconjugate: A monoclonal antibody linked to a toxic drug, radioactive particle, or other therapeutic agent, used to deliver treatment specifically to target cells (e.g., cancer cells) while sparing healthy tissue.