A simple protein of about 55 kDa size can have several epitopes. If an epitope is repeated on its structure, a specific (bivalent) monoclonal antibody can interact with these epitopes to result in precipitation reaction. But, the probability of the repeating epitopes is dependent on the primary structure of the antigen. I am interested in knowing whether it is a common occurrence or a rare phenomenon. Has someone that kind of experience on precipitation reactions?
Yes, it is possible to precipitate your protein with a monoclonal antibody even if this protein has only one epitope. You just need to make sure that your Ab can recognize the epitope in solution. Then, after incubation of the protein with antibody you can use a second Ab against your first Ab (or just PEG) for the precipitation of the Ag-Ab complex.
Thanks Viktor for the answer. I think 2-3% PEG, instead of 8-10% will work for the precipitation of Ag-Ab complexes. I was rather thinking whether single epitope protein after binding with specific monoclonal Ab in solution can promote protein-protein non-specific interactions over time, resulting in precipitation in the absence of a secondary Ab or PEG as precipitant.
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