Outline the immune response that leads to the formation of these anti-nicotine antibodies.
Mice given NicVAX produce B-lymphocytes that differentiate into cells responsible for antibody production (plasma cells). Outline how these B-lymphocytes can be used to produce monoclonal antibody.
Tobacco smoking during pregnancy has harmful side-effects on the developing fetus. An investigation was carried out to determine whether vaccinating pregnant women with NicVAX might provide some protection for the developing fetus. Two different monoclonal antibodies, produced in response to NicVAX, were used in this investigation: Nic-IgG and Nic311. Nicotine, or nicotine plus one of the monoclonal antibodies, was injected into the maternal circulation. The concentrations of nicotine in the fetal circulation were measured at intervals. The results of the investigation are shown in Fig. 2.1.
With reference to Fig. 2.1, describe the findings for nicotine only.
Discuss the extent to which these results support the idea that vaccination with NicVAX could protect the developing fetus of a woman who smokes tobacco.
State one medical use of monoclonal antibodies, apart from their use in producing vaccines.