Anti-phytochelatin monoclonal antibody

Phytochelatins (PCs, (gamma Glu-Cys)(n)-Gly, n = 2-11) are metal ions-bindi ng peptides produced by plant, algae and fungi. Antibodies that recognize P Cs were induced by the injection of Balb/c mice with a multiple antigen pep tide consisting of PC6 (MAP-PC6). One stable hybridoma producing a monoclon al antibody (mAb), designated as 4-9C, was established. The DNA sequences o f the heavy and light chain variable regions of the 4-9C mAb were determine d. The 4-9C mAb had a smaller equilibrium dissociation constant (K-d) towar ds Cu-, Zn- and Ni-PC7 complexes than those towards other metal-PC7 complex es and free PCs.