Antibodies are extremely valuable and ubiquitous tools in life science research, but in spite of their widespread use in immunoassays over the past several decades, there is still a lack of understanding on the design, validation, and appropriate use of antibodies and controls to publish convincing science. It is generally accepted that a good antibody must be specific, selective, and should provide reproducible results in the context for which it is used. The large diversity of antibody users, their background and experience, their large range of applications, coupled with hundreds of commercial sources for antibodies and immunotechnologies, makes understanding antibody theory and use very relevant today. This presentation will discuss several key aspects of antibody design, validation, and best practices for publishing on various applications from basic immunopurifications and Western blots, to conformation specific binding and high speed imaging flow cytometry. Typical reviewer comments will be addressed and discussed in the context of antibody binding theory and practice. Further, best practices in selecting antibodies, the need for multiple validations, documentation, and commercial source partnerships will be discussed. 

Learning Objectives:

1. What are the key elements of antibody design and validation 
2. How to select the right antibody 
3. What information is helpful for reviewers