Physiological responses of hybridoma cells in a protein-free medium to soluble and immobilized antigen

G Dandulakis1, J C Herr, D J Kirwan

  • 1Department of Chemical Engineering, Center for Bioprocess Development, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903-2442, USA.

This study examined the effect of antigen in a protein free medium on cell growth and monoclonal antibody production by a hybridoma line. Antigen immobilized on a Sepharose gel matrix via a bovine gamma-globulin carrier protein was used to stimulate the cell cultures in T-flasks. In comparison to antigen-free culture, total antibody production during was increased up to 40%, while slower cell growth rates were observed. The specific antibody production during the stationary culture phase was 40% to 80% higher in the presence of immobilized antigen. The surface density of antigen on the Sepharose beads had a strong influence on the physiological response of the hybridomas.

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