Neomycin Monoclonal Antibody (Neo-MoAb) is a lab-engineered immune system protein designed to specifically bind to the antibiotic neomycin. These antibodies are produced via hybridoma technology, combining B cells (from immunized mice) with myeloma cells to generate clones that secrete high-affinity, neomycin-targeted antibodies . Neo-MoAbs are primarily utilized in research, diagnostics, and quality control of neomycin-containing products, enabling precise detection and quantification of the antibiotic in biological samples .
Neo-MoAbs function through competitive enzyme immunoassays (CEIAs), where they bind to neomycin in samples, competing with enzyme-conjugated neomycin for limited antibody binding sites. This reaction is quantified via colorimetric assays . Key features include:
High specificity: Cross-reactivity with other aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin, kanamycin) is <0.1%, ensuring accurate detection .
Sensitivity: Limits of detection (LOD) range from 6.25–31.25 ppb depending on the sample matrix (e.g., milk, serum, tissue) .
Cell culture monitoring: Neo-MoAbs detect residual neomycin in media, ensuring contamination-free experimental conditions .
Antibiotic resistance studies: Antibodies targeting neomycin phosphotransferase II (NPTII) identify bacterial resistance mechanisms .
Residue analysis: Used in food safety to measure neomycin levels in milk, honey, and tissues .
While Neo-MoAbs are not therapeutic agents, their development parallels advances in antiviral research. For example, neomycin’s antiviral properties (against COVID-19 and influenza) were discovered using ISG-inducing assays, a method that could inform therapeutic antibody design .
Matrix | LOD (ppb) | CCβ (ppb) | Factor |
---|---|---|---|
Milk | 6.25 | 10 | ×10 |
Tissue | 31.25 | 50 | ×50 |
Serum | 6.25 | 6.25 | ×10 |
Urine | 8.42 | 10 | ×10 |
Note: LOD = Limit of Detection; CCβ = Detection Capability .