Veterinary sources of nonrodent monoclonal antibodies: interspecific and intraspecific hybridomas

The generation of monoclonal antibodies from species other than rats and mice has developed slowly over the last 20 years. The advent of antibody engineering and realization of the advantages of nonmurine antibodies, in terms of their superior affinities and specificities, and their potential as components of human and veterinary therapeutics has increased their relevance recently. There have been significant advances in the development of myeloma and heteromyeloma fusion partners. This is an opportune moment to consolidate experiences of MAb production across the range of species of veterinary interest and place it into context with other developments in the field of monoclonal antibodies. The background to the development of antibodies from species other than the mouse is discussed. The species and antigens used to date are reviewed, as are the methods and results reported. A suggested protocol is provided for first attempts to exploit the huge potential of this aspect of hybridoma technology and suggestions are made for its further expansion.