Monoclonal Antibodies

What is a clone of cells?

A group of identical cells that have formed from a single cell dividing over and over again.

What is a hybridoma?

A hybrid of a lymphocyte and tumour cell that can divide and grow endlessly, and produce antibodies.

How are monoclonal antibodies used in research?

For locating and identifying specific molecules in cells and tissues.

How are monoclonal antibodies used in diagnostic testing?

For measuring levels of specific hormones or chemicals in the blood or urine, such as pregnancy tests detecting HCG hormone.

How are monoclonal antibodies used to treat cancer?

For delivering toxic chemicals and drugs directly to cancer cells, limiting harm to other cells in the body.

Why are monoclonal antibodies not yet as widely used as was hoped?

They have more side effects than were initially expected.

Name the process by which bacteria divide.

Binary fission.

Why should an inoculating loop be passed through a blue Bunsen flame before and after use?

To sterilise it and kill any bacteria.

Name two culture media that microorganisms can be grown in.

Nutrient broth solution and agar gel plates.

Why should the lids of agar gel plates and culture bottles be opened as little as possible?

To prevent contamination with microorganisms from the air.

Why should you not incubate at temperatures higher than 25°C?

To reduce the chance of human pathogens growing.

Why should agar gel plates be incubated upside down?

To prevent contamination from condensation collecting on the surface of the agar.

How quickly can bacteria multiply?

The number of bacteria can double every 20 minutes in optimum conditions.

Why is good aseptic technique important?

To grow bacterial cultures without contamination.