The rockefeller university

ABCF launches a free pilot comparing mRNA and traditional immunization approaches

The Antibody and Bioresource Core Facility (ABCF) is seeking researchers from the Rockefeller University and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to participate in a pilot study comparing mRNA-lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNPs) and traditional immunization approaches for monoclonal antibody generation.

For a limited time, the ABCF will provide free immunizations for up to five laboratories. Each participating lab providing immunogens will receive two cohorts of mice directed against the same target: five animals immunized with mRNA-LNPs and another five immunized using a purified protein- or cells overexpressing the target.

The study offers more than a side-by-side comparison. Participants will have access to two distinct immunization approaches that may generate different epitope coverage, potentially increasing the likelihood of obtaining antibodies that meet their scientific needs. Once immunization is complete, investigators may collect any tissues needed for their research or work with the ABCF to generate monoclonal antibodies custom-made to their scientific needs.

Traditional monoclonal antibody generation often requires milligrams of purified, stable, properly folded protein or cells overexpressing the target protein, an investment that can require substantial time and resources before immunization can even begin.

mRNA-LNP technology offers a different approach by allowing the host animal to produce the target protein itself. Recent advances have also made the technology increasingly accessible to academic researchers. For example, mRNA-LNPs can currently be produced at a reasonable cost through a core facility at Mount Sinai while allowing investigators to retain their intellectual property rights.

The ABCF hopes to determine whether mRNA immunization can generate antibody responses comparable to—or in some cases better than—traditional methods while reducing one of the major barriers to antibody development.

Researchers interested in participating or learning more are encouraged to contact Frances Weis-Garcia at weisgar@rockefeller.edu or 646-888-2354.

To learn more about the services offered by the ABCF, visit rockefeller.edu/monoclonal

To read more news about the Scientific Resource Centers, visit the Resource Center News page.