Production of monoclonal antibody supernatant and ascites fluid.

This unit details methods for production of monoclonal antibodies. Two methods are given for production of hybridoma supernatants, including one for large-scale production. A protocol for large-scale production of hybridomas or cell lines is presented for use in isolation of cellular proteins. Finally, a method is given for producing and obtaining mouse ascites fluid containing monoclonal antibody. Recommendations developed by the Committee on Methods of Producing Monoclonal Antibodies (Institute of Laboratory Animal Research, National Research Council) on the use of animals for producing monoclonal antibodies are also discussed. These recommendations are designed to foster the judicious use of animals and to strongly encourage the use of in vitro methods whenever possible.