Production of nanobodies in Andean camelids and their most common applications: A general review in the medical field.

Abstract

The heavy chain fraction present in Camelidae antibodies is so-called nanobodies. They have different characteristics when compared to immunoglobulin G, like more diminutive size, higher affinity, shorter half-life in serum, etc. These proteins are codified by B lymphocytes cDNAs and can be produced in different hosts like Escherichia Coli, Pichia Pastoris, plant cells and even insect cells. Andean camelids have been mainly used in the Andean region of South America as transport means and source of raw materials like fibers and meat, then being of great economic importance. However, in Ecuador, the potential of these animals as a source of biomedical products has not been investigated or exploited yet. Due to the scarce information related to these molecules and their industrial production in the country, this review aims to remark on the most common medical application of nanobodies produced from Andean camelids; also, industrial applications are described. Keywords: Cancer, Coronavirus, VHH, production, treatment, diagnosis.