Selection of specific phage from display libraries: Monoclonal antibody against VCS M13 helper phage coat protein III (gIIIp)

Screening of specific phage is often hampered by nonspecific binding either of the VCS M13 helper phage to the solid phase absorbent or to the polyclo nal antibodies used for selection. The former is improved by increasing the stringency for selection. However, the available polyclonal anti-VCS M13 a ntibodies often react with immobilized antigen nonspecifically, making it d ifficult to distinguish between positive and negative clones. To improve th is selection process, a monoclonal antibody (MAb) was produced which recogn izes ligand-coat protein three (gIIIp) on the helper phage VCS M13. This MA b is highly sensitive and specific, and it is useful for selecting relevant clones. This reagent should find widespread application in identifying int eractive clones from a variety of phage display libraries.