Purchasing Antibodies

Find resources to help your company purchase antibodies
By Mary Spencer-Huber Obtaining a quality supply of biotech antibodies requires advance research into the various companies that are selling antibodies. The two types of antibodies, most commonly used in biotech research, include polyclonal antibodies and monoclonal antibodies.

Many companies are in the business of selling antibodies. Before selecting one of these companies, consider the following.

1. Choose monoclonal antibody producers or a producer of polyclonal antibodies.

2. Identify the host species in which you want the antibody generated, as well as the species with which you want the antibody to react.

3. Decide if you'll need custom antibodies or "off-the-shelf" antibodies.

4. Determine if your company has adequate facilities necessary for antigen production.

Search for companies that are selling antibodies

You don't want to sign on with the first company you come across. Instead, you want to identify, as many companies as possible, that make the antibody you need.
Try:  Start your search at Biocompare. This site allows you to search multiple antibody supply companies at once. Enter information about the antibody, such as the species the antibody reacts with, the host species in which the antibody was produced, antibody applications, and the type of conjugate. You'll receive a list of companies that match your needs. Linscott's Directory also offers a similar online searchable database for antibodies.

Learn more about how a supplier of antibodies functions

As you gain more knowledge about the production of antibodies, you'll become a more skilled and discriminating buyer. Educate yourself on various aspects of antibody production ranging from antibody equipment used to production techniques.
Try:  The AnaSpec website offers an overview of antibody production. The site also provides tips on various aspects of production. Antibody production protocols are available at Molecular Station.

Review the types of service each antibody supply company offers

A manufacturer of custom monoclonal antibodies or polyclonal antibodies frequently offers a wide array of services. A simple service package may require that your company supply the antigen, while more complex service packages include peptide synthesis.
Try:  For multiple levels of service contact ProSci. Their basic service includes antibody production using a client-approved antigen, followed by an immunization protocol. More advanced services include antigen design accompanied by peptide synthesis, immunization, conjugation, an ELISA and much more. Charles River Laboratories offers three levels of service, with Package III being the most complex.

• Check with the company selling the antibodies to determine if they subcontract out their antibody production. This may present a quality control issue, depending on the subcontractor that is used.
• If you find producers of monoclonal antibodies or polyclonal antibodies, that offer extremely low prices, then you should beware. Often, low initial quotes are accompanied by numerous additional hidden costs.