The discovery of ability to fuse specific antibody-producing B-cells with myeloma cell lines to produce immortalized cells (hybridomas) that secrete monoclonal antibodies has provided an invaluable tool for protein discovery and cellular function analyses. The procedure used to make monoclonal antibodies involves several steps, many of which are amendable to alternatives that can either replace or reduce animal use. The most controversial of these procedures is the use of cell culturing techniques to replace the ascites method, an in vivo procedure that is used to produce monoclonal antibodies at high concentrations and is believed to cause pain and distress in mice. As a result of these concerns, several countries have placed restrictions on the use of the ascites method. Although changes in policy can be effective, a acceptance of in vitro technologies can also be achieved through the development of improved alternatives. To this end, the use of genetically modified cells and animals that produce hybridoma cell lines with increased vigor has great potential to improve outcomes and reduce animal use. Results from my laboratory studies and various committee recommendations will be presented here to define the history, barriers, and progress in enhancing humane approaches to improving monoclonal antibody production.
See details at: The Evolution of Alternatives in Monoclonal Production