FURI | Spring 2019

Cloning Antibodies to Understand Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases are still widely misunderstood, but are believed to be caused by the production of β-amyloid peptides (Aβ). Single Chain Fragment Variables (scFv) antibodies can be used to eliminate Aβ, but are difficult to work with. These scFv antibodies can be transformed into Fragment Antigen Binding antibodies (Fab), which are more stable thus easier to work with. A form of scFv called E1 is known to recognize a particular form of Aβ. Genetically cloning E1 scFv to Fab antibody, crystallizing the product and studying its structure will be used to study how E1 interacts with Aβ, thus providing more information on how these diseases operate.