Characterisation of monoclonal antibodies to adrenocorticotrophin

We have produced 8 monoclonal antibodies to adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) derived from immunisation with ACTH (1-24) conjugated to bovine serum albumin or ACTH (1-39) linked to chicken immunoglobulin by a novel method. Antibody specificity was assessed by studying the binding of purified human ACTH, synthetic ACTH (1-24), fragments of ACTH and peptides from the ACTH precursor molecule which have sequence homology. A wide range of specificities was demonstrated. Thus antibody 3H9 recognises the extreme N-terminal sequence (ACTH 4-10), antibody 1A12 is specific for residues 10-18 including alpha MSH, antibody 1D1 is specific for the mid N-terminal sequence but not alpha MSH, and antibody 2A3 is specific for the C-terminal portion (ACTH 18-39). These monoclonal antibodies can be easily purified and labelled and their defined specificities make it possible to select antibody combinations which provide the basis for 2-site immunometric assays for ACTH.

Related Concept Videos

Affinity and Avidity01:41

Affinity and Avidity

Overview
Hybridoma Technology01:31

Hybridoma Technology

Hybridoma technology is used for the large-scale production of monoclonal antibodies. Monoclonal antibodies bind to only a single antigenic determinant or epitope. Such antibodies are used in research, diagnostics, and disease therapy. The hybridoma technology established in 1975 by Georges Köhler and Cesar Milstein was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1984 for revolutionizing research and therapy.
Hybridoma Selection
Commonly used fusion techniques — electroporation, polyethylene glycol...
Adrenergic Receptors (Adrenoceptors): Classification01:27

Adrenergic Receptors (Adrenoceptors): Classification

Adrenergic receptors, or adrenoceptors, respond to the autonomic neurotransmitter noradrenaline and other endogenous catecholamine agonists. They are classified into two main families, α and β, based on their pharmacological response and are further subdivided depending on their location, elicited response, and affinity to specific agonists or antagonists.
α-Adrenoceptors
α-Adrenoceptors are classified into two main subtypes: α1 and α2. The α1 adrenoceptors, which are found on postsynaptic...
B Cell Activation and Differentiation01:24

B Cell Activation and Differentiation

The adaptive immune response, a sophisticated defense mechanism, relies on the activation and differentiation of B lymphocytes, or B cells. These processes enable our bodies to mount a tailored response against specific pathogens such as bacteria, free virus particles, toxins, and parasites.
When naive B cells encounter a specific antigen that can bind to the B cell receptor (BCR) on their surface, they undergo sensitization to respond to the antigen's presence. Sensitization begins with...
Antibody Structure and Classes01:25

Antibody Structure and Classes

Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are produced by B cells in response to foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses. These proteins are critical for recognizing and neutralizing these substances, protecting the body from potential harm.
The basic structure of an antibody consists of four protein chains: two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains. These chains are held together by disulfide bonds and other non-covalent interactions, forming a Y-shaped structure.
Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction01:26

Cushing Syndrome I: Introduction

Cushing syndrome refers to the collection of clinical manifestations that arise when tissues are exposed to excessive amounts of cortisol or cortisol-like medications over an extended period. Cortisol, a glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal cortex, regulates metabolism, immune responses, and the body’s adaptation to stress. When its concentration remains chronically elevated, these physiological pathways become dysregulated, resulting in the characteristic features of the syndrome.Exogenous...