MHC Tetramer technology leverages the ability of MHC-peptide complexes to recognize antigen-specific T cells at the single-cell level. This innovative approach enables precise measurement of targeted T-cell responses in infectious diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.
MBL has been developing and manufacturing MHC tetramer reagents in Japan since 2002. In 2013, MBL obtained an exclusive sublicense from Beckman Coulter, allowing us to expand our portfolio with the complete MHC tetramer product line. Since the inception of our tetramer program, we have built a deep knowledge base and accumulated extensive experience, enabling us to deliver high-quality products and expert support to our customers.
MBL offers custom synthesis of MHC class I and class II tetramers and monomers to meet the specific requirements of researchers. Peptide–MHC binding feasibility is assessed using a consensus-driven approach based on multiple bioinformatic prediction tools (e.g., NetMHC, SYFPEITHI, IEDB tools). Combinations lacking predictive consensus are categorized as potentially low-affinity or non-binders. Literature evidence is also incorporated to support peptide selection and binding confidence.
All peptides used in tetramer production are of high purity, exceeding 95% at the expected molecular weight, with typical purity levels approaching 99%. Throughout the MHC monomer folding and purification process, in-process quality control is performed using SEC-HPLC to assess complex integrity and stability. Final tetramer constructs are similarly analyzed via SEC-HPLC to ensure quality.