Single chain variable fragment

    Single Chain Variable Fragment (scFv) is a fusion of the variable regions of the heavy and light chains of immunoglobulins, linked together with a short (usually serine, glycine) linker. This chimeric molecule retains the specificity of the original immunoglobulin, despite removal of the constant regions and the introduction of a linker peptide. If one inspects the structure of immunoglobulin (image to the right) and appreciates its modular structure, one can visualize how this modification usually leaves the specificity unaltered. These molecules were created historically to facilitate phage display where it is highly convenient to express the antigen binding domain as a single peptide. Alternatively, scFv can be created directly from subcloned heavy and light chains derived from a hybridoma. scFvs have many uses - e.g. flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry and as antigen binding domains of artificial T cell receptors.

Additional recommended knowledge

Daily Sensitivity Test

How to quickly check pipettes?

Essential Laboratory Skills Guide

scFv Purification

Single chain variable fragments lack the constant Fc region found in complete antibody molecules, and thus, the common binding sites (e.g. Protein A/G) used to purify antibodies. These fragments can often be purified/immobilized using Protein L since Protein L interacts with the variable region of kappa light chains.