Hybridoma Facility

The Wistar Institute
3601 Spruce Street
Phila., PA 19104

Effective August 14 2009, the Hybridoma Facility will be ceasing operations for the Wistar Cancer Center. Current projects are being completed. No additional work will be initiated without first consulting with Dr. Andrew Caton (215-898-3871) or Dr. Van Cherington (215-495-6895). Please refer any questions to either Dr. Caton or Dr. Cherington. Thank you.

Introduction

The Hybridoma Facility at The Wistar Institute produces monoclonal antibodies to a variety of cellular proteins including transcription factors, membrane or cell surface proteins, and cell adhesion proteins. Upon receipt of an antigen, the facility performs all aspects of monoclonal antibody production. This includes immunization of mice or rats, serum titers, and fusions, as well as screening and cloning of the resultant hybridomas. The facility also provides assistance with existing cell lines. This includes expansion of the cell line, producing supernatants, cloning, and bioreactor work.

The average project takes approximately four months from the time of the first immunization. Project duration may vary depending on the responses of the animal to the antigen presented. If there is a weak response to the antigen, additional immunizations may be necessary.

The Hybridoma Facility does not perform ascites production. There has been a national movement away from using animals to produce antibodies. Therefore, the facility suggests as a substitute for this process the use of a bioreactor to produce high concentrations of antibody. A bioreactor is currently being used by the facility, and in most cases, provides good results.