In hybridoma technology, which cell type is considered the desirable fusion partner for producing monoclonal antibodies?

In hybridoma technology, myeloma cells are the desirable fusion partner for producing monoclonal antibodies due to their specific characteristics that make them ideal for this purpose. Myeloma cells are derived from malignant plasma cells and possess the capability to grow indefinitely in culture. This property allows the hybrid cells, or hybridomas, to be selected and expanded for the production of antibodies.

When myeloma cells are fused with normal B lymphocytes, the resulting hybridomas can produce large quantities of a single type of antibody, which is known as a monoclonal antibody. The B lymphocytes bring the ability to produce specific antibodies, while the myeloma cells contribute immortalization, ensuring continuous growth and sustained antibody production. This synergy is crucial in generating a reliable and consistent supply of antibodies for research, diagnostic, and therapeutic applications.

The other potential fusion partners listed—normal B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and macrophages—do not share the same advantageous properties for hybridoma formation as myeloma cells. Normal B lymphocytes, although capable of producing antibodies, do not have the immortality that myeloma cells provide, meaning they would not be able to sustain long-term growth in culture. T lymphocytes and macrophages, while important cells