Introduction
Biosensors and bioanalytics rely heavily on the use of antibodies as biorecognition elements. The development of antibody technologies has revolutionized the field, enabling the creation of highly specific and sensitive biosensors. This chapter provides an overview of the current state of antibody technologies, including their design, production, and application in biosensors and bioanalytics.
Antibody Structure and Function
Antibodies are members of the immunoglobulin superfamily and consist of two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains. The antigen-binding site is localized at the N-terminal moiety of the variable regions, and the composition and conformation of the six complementarity-determining regions (CDRs) determine the topography of the antigen-binding site.
Antibody Production Techniques
Antibody production techniques have evolved significantly over the years. Traditional methods involve the use of animals, such as mice, to produce antibodies. However, this approach has several limitations, including the need for large amounts of antigen, the potential for animal welfare concerns, and the difficulty in obtaining high-affinity antibodies.
Recombinant Antibody Technologies
Recombinant antibody technologies have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional methods. These technologies involve the use of genetic engineering to produce antibodies in vitro. The most common approach is to use phage display, which involves the display of antibody fragments on the surface of bacteriophages.
Directed Evolution
Directed evolution is a powerful tool for optimizing antibody affinity and specificity. This approach involves the use of iterative cycles of mutation and selection to identify antibodies with improved properties.
Primary Antibody Repertoires
Primary antibody repertoires are collections of antibodies that have not been optimized for a specific target. These repertoires can be used as a starting point for directed evolution.
Secondary Antibody Repertoires
Secondary antibody repertoires are collections of antibodies that have been optimized for a specific target. These repertoires can be used for a variety of applications, including biosensors and bioanalytics.
Applications in Biosensors and Bioanalytics
Antibodies have a wide range of applications in biosensors and bioanalytics, including the detection of biomarkers, pathogens, and environmental pollutants.
