Animal-Free Blockers
Immunoassay interference blockers are reagents used in Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assays (ELISA) and Lateral Flow (LF) assays to reduce interference from proteins in patient samples that could produce false results and an incorrect diagnosis. Non-specific interactions occur between antibodies within the assay itself and endogenous antibodies from the patient’s sample such as heterophilic antibodies and autoantibodies. HAMA (Human anti-mouse antibodies), heterophilic antibodies (HA) and rheumatic factor (RF) and can cause significant interferences in immunoassays leading to false-positive or false-negative results.
Immunoassay interference blockers are usually produced using animal sources which can lead to batch-to-batch variation, low specificity and interference from cross-reactive proteins — all of which can compromise assay performance. Recombinant technologies have enabled animal-free alternatives that offer greater reproducibility, scale-up and overall alleviate ethical concerns. Since 2019, the European Union Directive 2010/63/EU encourages the use of animal-free reagents. Companies that truly care about sustainability and the environment are encouraging scientists to minimize the use of animal-derived products in their work.
Meridian’s new blockers, Mouse-Free IgG and K-Block ™ are 100% animal-free.
WHY GO ANIMAL FREE?
Enhanced specificity: Due to their higher purity and homogeneity, animal-free blockers offer improved specificity over traditional blockers, as they will not cross-react with animal-sourced antigens and antibodies in the assay. The potential for non-specific binding is reduced and the signal-to-background ratio is improved. Consistent performance: Animal-derived reagents can have batch-to-batch variability, impacting assay consistency. In contrast, animal-free reagents are more chemically well-defined, resulting in regulatory advantages and quicker time-to-market.
Ethical considerations: Using an animal protein-free blocker aligns with the global ethical concerns on animal welfare and the reduction of animal usage in science. Regulatory compliance: Regulations such as the European Union (EU) Directive 2010/63/EU, are encouraging the use of animal-free reagents. Reduced risk of contamination: Animal-derived components used in traditional blockers can contain carry-over contaminants, such as viruses, prions, and endotoxins, directly affecting the accuracy of an assay. Animal-free blocker eliminates this risk.
Cruelty free Animal free
Same HAMA blocking potency as native version
Sustainable commercial-scale manufacturing
Economically Feasible
Supply continuity
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