CD BioGlyco's advanced Glycoengineering Platform closely follows the development trend in science and technology. We aim to provide customers with unparalleled support services for antibody digestion.
Antibodies are powerful tools for protein and molecular detection and purification. While intact antibodies (usually IgG or IgM) are suitable for most immunoassay applications, the performance of certain steps is enhanced by the use of antibody fragments such as Fab and F(ab')2.
The discovery that the digestion of antibodies with certain proteolytic enzymes yields predictable fragments prompted earlier studies of antibody structures. For example, papain cleavage of the heavy chain CH2 domain above the disulfide bond linking the heavy chain produces three distinct fragments. These resulting fragments consist of the constant and variable regions of the heavy chains (VH and CH1) and light chains (VL and CL) linked by disulfide bonds. Each Fab binds one antigen. The remaining fragment, consisting of CH2 and CH3 heavy chain units, is easily crystallized and is called Fc (crystalline fraction). Subsequent studies showed that the Fc portion of antibodies was responsible for binding to receptors on immunocompetent cells. The IgG heavy chain is cleaved using pepsin at the site below the disulfide bond connecting the two heavy chains. The resulting fragment consists of two Fabs linked together by heavy chain disulfide bonds. The large molecular weight fragment is called F(ab')2. Each F(ab')2 can bind two antigens.
In fact, achieving antibody fragmentation is challenging and requires optimization of enzyme-mediated protein digestion. In addition, a sufficient amount of antibodies needs to be prepared to achieve the desired efficiency. Therefore, fragmentation is only performed when there is a specific need and sufficient antibody is available.
Fig.1 Pattern of protein fragments after enzymatic cleavage. (Feldkamp & Carey, 1996)
CD BioGlyco has developed a range of enzymes and related kits for antibody digestion. Our services include antibody dialysis, digestion with enzymes, and purification of proteolytic fragments. Digested antibodies generate homogeneous subunits that facilitate the development and analysis of biopharmaceuticals. In addition, we offer custom antibody fragmentation antibody development services.
CD BioGlyco aspires to become the trusted solution provider of your first choice. Our team of scientists has many years of experience in Antibody Glycoengineering. We provide customers with strong support for antibody digestion. For further details, please don't hesitate to contact us.
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