Graphic: istockphoto/Naeblys
The modern method is extremely versatile. A phage display library, for example, contains an extensive repertoire of peptides or proteins expressed as recombinant molecules on the surface of genetically modified bacteriophages, which are viruses that target bacteria. Billions of different molecules can thus be presented and suitable binding partners identified and isolated. Antibodies produced by phage display are already widely used in various fields, including Covid-19 research and cancer immunotherapy.
The JRC's EU Reference Laboratory for Alternatives to Animal Testing (EURL ECVAM) issued a recommendation in 2020 urging end-users and other stakeholders to recognize the scientific validity of animal-free antibodies and to stop using animals for antibody development and production. However, the recommendation has been controversial in the scientific community.
For more information, see the current brochure (below)