What is a Nanobody?
With the emergence of recombinant DNA technology, many antibody fragments have been developed devoid of undesired properties of natural immunoglobulins. Among them, camelid heavy-chain variable domains or nanobodies. By definition, nanobodies are single-domain antibodies derived from the variable regions of Camelidae (e.g., camels and llamas) atypical immunoglobulins. Camelidae possess fully functional antibodies that consist of only heavy chains. These single variable domains have full antigen binding capacity and are very stable.
Featured Nanobody Products
Advantages of using an Alpaca Recombinant Secondary
Smaller size
Nanobodies are 1/10 the size of a traditional antibody (~15 kDa unconjugated). This means that the nanobody can penetrate tissue faster and deeper than other antibodies.
Easier to use
Due to their simple structure, nanobodies also have the advantage of increased stability and ease of use.
Easier production
When compared to a more traditional antibody, nanobodies are easier to develop and produce in the lab than monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies.
More consistent
Since nanobodies are recombinantly produced from clonal DNA, you are guaranteed the same product every time. Comparatively, polyclonal antibodies are produced in live animals and have a very low lot-to-lot consistency while monoclonal antibodies can suffer from drift.
Higher Affinity
Nanobodies benefit from consistently high binding affinity values.
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