Passive immunization involves the production of antibodies in one animal by active immunization. These antibodies can be stored (as immune globulins) and then administered to susceptible animals to confer immediate but short-lived protection. The transfer of maternal antibody to offspring via the placenta or colostrum is the natural (and very important) form of passive immunization. Immune globulins may be produced in cattle against anthrax, in dogs against distemper, and in cats against panleukopenia. Their most important role is in protection against toxigenic organisms, eg, Clostridium tetani or C perfringens. These immune globulins are generally produced in young horses by a series of immunizing inoculations.

To check the potency of preparations of immune globulin, comparison is made with an international biological standard and expressed in international units (IU). Tetanus immune globulin is given to animals to confer immediate protection against tetanus. At least 1,500–3,000 IU of immune globulin should be given to horses and cattle; at least 500 IU to calves, sheep, goats, and pigs; and at least 250 IU to dogs. The exact amount varies with the amount of tissue damage, degree of wound contamination, and time elapsed since injury. Tetanus immune globulin is of little use once clinical signs appear, although massive doses of up to 300,000 IU may help.

Monoclonal Antibodies

In a normal immune response, antibodies are produced by many different plasma cell populations and are thus said to be polyclonal. Although these antibodies all combine with a specific antigen, they are a heterogeneous mixture of proteins. Homogeneous antibodies can be generated through the use of cloned cell lines called hybridomas; these monoclonal antibodies, represent an alternative source of passive immunization. Currently, however, these are mainly made by mouse hybridomas (and thus consist of mouse antibodies) and may sensitize other animal species.

Monoclonal antibodies are commonly used for diagnostic purposes. Because they are homogeneous and specific, they have the ability to differentiate between closely related infectious agents in a manner that is impossible with conventional antibodies. For example, they can differentiate between the rabies viruses obtained from skunks, bats, or dogs.

Last full review/revision March 2012 by Ian Tizard, BVMS, PhD, DACVM