Determining the Class and Subclass of Monoclonal Antibodies Using Antibody Capture on Antigen-Coated Plates.

The class or subclass of an antibody is defined by its heavy chain. There are five main classes of antibodies: M, G, A, E, and D. By definition, a monoclonal antibody should only be of a single class or subclass. Each class of antibody is associated with specific functions. The method of antibody purification will differ based on the class. In this protocol, antigen is used to capture antibodies reactive to it. Specific class and/or subclass secondary antibodies are then used to discern which class/subclass has been captured.