EuroMAbNet: European Monoclonal Antibodies Network

Step3. Assess existing validation data and decide whether further validation is necessary

Although antibodies are sold on the basis that they recognise the target antigen, the responsibility for deciding whether they are fit for purpose and whether additional validation is needed rests firmly on the researcher using the reagent. Unfortunately, there is a wealth of data in the scientific literature derived from experiments performed with sub-optimal antibodies whose reactivity or specificity for the target was insufficiently validated. These have led to incorrect conclusions reached from invalid hypotheses.

You need to assess the evidence of:

• 3.A Reactivity with the target antigen
• 3.B Its suitability for use in your intended applications
• 3.C Decide whether further validation is necessary
• Example step 3