Antibodies against hormones of the own body

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the production of polyclonal antibodies against endogenous hormones such as cortisol and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) using animal models like hamsters, pigs, and sheep. The process involves vaccinating these animals and harvesting antibodies from their blood. To induce an immune response against hormones that the organism naturally produces, it is essential to conjugate the hormone to an immunogenic carrier protein before inoculation. This method is crucial for developing custom antibodies for research and diagnostic purposes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of immunology and antibody production
  • Knowledge of hormone function and regulation in the body
  • Familiarity with conjugation techniques in biochemistry
  • Basic principles of animal vaccination protocols
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the process of conjugating small molecules to carrier proteins
  • Explore the use of polyclonal antibodies in hormone testing
  • Learn about the ethical considerations in animal vaccination for research
  • Investigate alternative methods for producing antibodies, such as monoclonal antibodies
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for immunologists, biochemists, and researchers involved in hormone analysis and antibody development, as well as veterinary scientists interested in animal models for antibody production.

DrDu
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Recently I came upon the description of medical tests for hormones like cortisole, or tyroid hormones like T3 and T4, which use polyclonal antibodies from hamsters, pigs, sheep or thelike.
As far as I know, they are obtained by vacunating these animals and harvesting the antibodies from their blood. But how can you induce an organism to produce antibodies against hormones it uses itself and needs for its wellbeing?
 
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Thank you, that's very interesting.