High-Throughput and High-Content Screening for Monoclonal Antibodies

The rapid identification of cells that exhibit a particular set of characteristics among a heterogeneous population remains a challenge for basic biomedical research, drug discovery, and bioprocess manufacturing. The preparation of a clonal line of cells producing specific antibodies (affinity-based reagents) often requires multiple rounds of selection and validation for a single target. Furthermore, the initial selection of clones is typically based on only one or two parameters (e.g., course specificity), and comprehensive characterization of the antibody is deferred to a later time when large quantities of the antibody are available. The length of time required (min. 2-6 wks) to identify and validate individual antibodies limits the development of these reagents for biochemical analyses, clinical diagnostics, and immunotherapies to “as needed.” Rapid generation of diverse libraries of monoclonal antibodies against infectious agents, such as malaria, would facilitate proteomic studies and complement genomic studies.