I started using my first IgM based Ab (FMC-7) a couple of weeks ago, and have
noticed that it has more non-specific bind than typical IgG based Ab's. I
assume this is because it is a pentamer instead of a dimer....
But anyway, although residual normal cells appear to offer an adequate cutoff
for our positive staining cells, I wanted to verify that everything was
reacting properly, so I purchased the IgM negative control.
This negative control does not show as much non-specific binding as negative
(residual T-cells) do in the FMC-7 tube. Is this simply along the lines of not
being able to verify that Ab concentrations are equal in my negative control
and the FMC-7 reagent?? Or is something else at work here??
question 2: Is FMC-7 only available in IgM form, and if so, why??
Thanks for any input and all input and comments.
Keith Bahjat
South Bend Medical Foundation
South Bend, Indiana
Kbahjat@MSN.com