3 ECTS credits
75 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 4014835FNR for all students in the 2nd semester of odd academic years (e.g. 2013-2014) at a (F) Master - specialised level.
We give a detailed overview of the structural aspects en specific properties of various antribody formats. Specifically, we discuss the detailed composition of immunoglobulins and their modular structure, the folding of the Ig domain en the canonical antigen binding loop structures. The various kinetic and equilibrium binding parameters and their role is discussed.
We give an overview of the methods for generation and selection of antigen-specific antibodies and smaller antigen-binding fragements and of the possibilities to improve identified antibodies in terms of affinity, stability, specificity, humanisation etc... .
We end the course by a discussion of camelid heavy chain antibodies and their derived single domain antigen binding fragments including their benefit in diagnostics, therapy and biotechnology
Powerpoint presentations shown during classes are available on the learning platform.
-The students are able to explain the most important structural properties of the variable and constant domains of immunoglobulins and the generation of an endless paratope repertoire;
-The students know the methods to generate and select antibodies and smaller antigen binding fragments and the employed techniques to generate humanised antibodies and to improve the affinity or stability of existing antibodies and are being able to explain how the techniques work, are able to assess the advantages and disadvantages of the different techniques and have insight in the parameters affecting the choice of the method.
-The students are aware what are single domain antibody fragments in camelids and what are their advantages and disadvantages.
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Oral Exam determines 100% of the final mark.
Within the Oral Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Oral examination without written preparation
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Master of Biology: Molecular and Cellular Life sciences
Master of Teaching in Science and Technology: biologie (120 ECTS, Etterbeek) (only offered in Dutch)