Complementarity-determining region (CDR) implantation: a theme of recombination

Abstract

A novel technology in the area of antibody engineering has been developed which allows for the creation of new types of antibody molecules. It is called complementarity-determining region (CDR) implantation and permits the random combination of CDR sequences formed in vivo into a single master framework. Thus, totally new gene combinations can be produced and used in selection processes. The result is a genetic variability which is extremely large, even exceeding the natural variability found in the immune system. In this commentary, CDR implantation is presented and the technology is discussed.