Specific conjugation reactions of the oligosaccharide moieties of immunoglobulins

Methods for the specific conjugation of both polyclonal antibodies and monoclonal antibodies via their carbohydrate moieties are described. Mild oxidation of the immunoglobulin with sodium periodate produces reactive aldehydes on the carbohydrate moieties. Subsequent reaction with hydrazide derivatives of biotin, fluorescent dyes, or enzymes produces stable antibody conjugates which retain full immunological activity. In addition, immunoaffinity supports can be prepared in the same manner using solid supports containing a hydrazide function.