Because of the extensive use of MAbs, millions of mice are subjected to a horrific procedure to produce and extract the antibodies from their bodies. All aspects of this procedure cause extreme suffering in the animal and the final extraction of fluid is excruciating and often results in the animal's death. In addition, MAbs are also used for the treatment of many cancers, infections and other ailments. Some laboratories manufacture large quantities of MAbs in bioreactors, however, many laboratories produce smaller quantities by using animals. The Making of an MAb Antibody production begins by the formation of cells known as hybridomas which are created by fusing two types of cells, lymphocytes and cancer cells.
Lymphocytes produce specific antibodies when exposed to antigens.
The only question now, is where to grow it. Unfortunately, many laboratories still use the outdated and painful ascites method of producing MAbs in animals. The hybridoma is first created and grown in a cell culture, then the mass of cells is injected into the abdomen of a mouse, where the tumor continues to grow rapidly. The abdomen of the mouse increases in size as the tumor grows, secreting fluid containing the desired antibodies. After 10-12 days, the mouse's abdomen is almost twice the original size and causes intense suffering.