FAQ Custom Antibody Services
Why is the IMG-AbS™ technology better than currently available options?
IMG-AbS™ uses a unique proprietary technology – our mice overexpress the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) which results in: 1) better IgG protection; 2) more efficient antigen presentation; 3) increased antibody diversity; 4) higher antigen specific immunoglobulin titers and more antigen-specific B-cells; 5) more antigen-specific hybridomas; 6) efficient humoral immune response against weakly immunogenic targets; and 7) allow production of antibodies against of highly conserved antigens (breaking immune tolerance).
Our technology is backed by a significant number of peer reviewed journal articles that can be found in the Publication section of this website.
How does the custom program work?
The ImmunoGenes CAS program is a truly customized experience. We specialize in "difficult" antigens and therefore each protocol is different.
The process begins with our customers contacting us: either through the website's Request Quote button or by emailing us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Our team of scientists will then work with you to design a protocol that is best suited for your needs.
What targets can you develop antibodies for?
Our IMG-AbS™ technology is well suited for difficult targets but it can also be applied to conventional targets with outstanding results. We can generate antibodies for proteins, peptides, anti-idiotypes, GPCRs, etc. Please emails us with your questions and we would be glad to help.
What kind of screenings do you conduct?
We have the ability to conduct a variety of screenings, including different varieties of ELISA, Western Blot, IHC, ICC and Flow Cytometry. If you have a specific screen you would like, you can state that in the request form.
How many animals do you use?
Since there may be variability in immune responses, we recommend using an average of eight (8) mice for each antigen.
How much antigen do you need?
If the antigen is a cell or a transfected cell, please contact our scientists to discuss possibilities. For a protein, approximately 3mg of protein in soluble form (2 mg for immunization and 1 mg for ELISA and other EIA-screening) is required. For a peptide, 3mg of conjugated peptide or 3mg unconjugated peptide for conjugation (with terminal cysteine), and 3mg of unconjugated peptide for ELISA screening; peptide purity of > 90% is recommended for hybridoma development. We can also synthesize your peptide.
Can you conjugate peptides?
Yes. We will conjugate peptides to a carrier protein to increase the immune response. Our scientists will work with you to design the appropriate peptide sequence.
What happens if my antigen is not pure? How much is required?
Our mice can potentially make antibodies to anything that is injected. This includes contamination. You may need to look at alternated methods of purification.
For peptides we suggest to use preparations with >90% purity. For protein antigens, please provide as high purity as possible. For screening purposes, we require the highest possible purity (>90%). For immunization, as long as the target is at a suitable level, it may be possible with lower purity levels.
How much titer is needed prior to fusion?
A titer greater than 1:10,000 is required before fusion.
How are the clones screened?
In case of peptides and soluble proteins our initial hybridoma screening is typically done by ELISA. Other screenings are available upon request.
Do you test for mycoplasma?
Mycoplasma test of our clones are performed routinely.
How do you produce antibodies?
We have the ability to produce antibodies by ascites or in vitro. We would prefer in vitro production in accord with the animal care regulations, but we will produce them as per our customer's request.
Who retains the rights of the clones and antibodies?
Antibodies and clones generated under the ImmunoGenes CAS program are for the exclusive internal research use of the customer and may not be used for any external commercial purpose, including the sale or license of the antibodies or clones to third parties. ImmunoGenes does license its technology to researchers and companies that are interested in using the unique IMG-AbS™ proprietary technology for the development of therapeutic and diagnostic antibodies under collaboration agreements. Please contact us if you are interested in working out such an agreement.
Can ImmunoGenes provide mass quantities?
Yes, ImmunoGenes can provide larger quantities of antibodies as well.
How should the antigen be shipped? What kind of buffer should be used?
We prefer to receive the antigen in a soluble form if possible. If necessary, the antigen may be shipped frozen or on ice packs.
The best buffer for the animals is PBS. Please let us know of alternate buffers are needed.
What is your confidentiality policy?
All our projects and data associated with them are held in strict confidence.
Do you provide cost control procedures?
Yes we do. At the beginning of each project we provide a quote for the entire project which is structured in phases. Each phase is a decision point at the end of which you can decide whether you would like to proceed to the next phase. This allows you to stop the project at the end of each phase without incurring the cost of the entire project.
How do you ship your products?
We use care to ship products and use the fastest possible method available. ImmunoGenes is shipping products (in dry ice). We can work with you for specific needs.
If you have a shipping account you'd like us to use (either UPS or FedEx), please inform us when you place your order. Contact us and one of our representatives will be happy to assist you.
