EBV–hybridoma method: What are the advantages of using the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) hybridoma technique for generating human monoclonal antibodies?

Introduction / Context:
Conventional mouse hybridomas are routine, but producing fully human monoclonal antibodies historically required alternative strategies. The EBV-hybridoma approach leverages EBV to transform human B cells, supporting their proliferation and facilitating downstream fusion to create stable antibody-secreting lines.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• EBV infects human B cells and can drive their immortalization.
• Activated, antigen-experienced B cells proliferate better and are more amenable to fusion.
• Improved proliferation and survival can increase hybridization success.

Concept / Approach:
EBV transformation generates lymphoblastoid cell lines that retain antibody gene rearrangements. These lines are expanded and fused with suitable partners to stabilize secretion. The net effect is better availability of antigen-specific clones, higher fusion efficiency, and the ability to derive human monoclonal antibodies without extensive humanization steps.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Published protocols document EBV transformation followed by selection and fusion, producing human mAbs for diagnostics and research.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing EBV transformation alone with hybridoma creation; EBV helps immortalize and expand B cells, but stable monoclonality still requires fusion and cloning.

Final Answer:
All of the above.