Optimizing Western blotting immunodetection: Streamlining antibody cocktails for reduced protocol time and enhanced multiplexing applications

Abstract

Adaptive, rather than innate, immunity relies mainly on antigen-antibody recognition. This recognition is driven by the binding of specific antibody paratopes to distinct epitopes found on antigens. This interaction is pivotal for immune responses that have been re-purposed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. This article focuses on Western blotting, an in vitro technique performed for protein immunodetection. Traditionally, this technique requires separate incubations of both primary and secondary antibodies, for which these antibodies recognize different antigen epitopes (conventional method). We propose a modified protocol combining both antibodies, involving a single incubation step that reduces time and conserves reagents (non-conventional/improved method). This improved protocol will enhance efficiency without compromising detection accuracy. It will support multiplexing, enabling the simultaneous detection of multiple proteins. Despite the positive results found by applying available antibodies, further optimization is required for a more thorough evaluation, to ensure that all antibodies consistently yield successful results in every detection attempt for broader use. Our findings indicate that the tested antibody cocktails remained stable over time, which suggests potential for commercialization of this modified Western blot protocol with a wide scope towards multiplex diagnostic application.