High-Performance MHC Tetramers for Accurate T Cell Detection

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Achieve Precise T Cell identification with High-Sensitivity MHC Tetramers

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For more than 50 years, MBL (Medical & Biological Laboratories Co., Ltd.) has pioneered immunological reagents that empower immunologists and translational researchers. Their MHC Tetramers enable direct, quantitative detection of antigen-specific T cells by flow cytometry—offering the sensitivity and stability required for today’s most demanding research in cancer, autoimmunity, infection, and vaccine development.

Through exclusive U.S. distribution by Cosmo Bio USA, researchers gain streamlined access to a diverse catalog of peptide-loaded MHC tetramers and customizable QuickSwitch™ kits for novel antigen discovery.

Download the brochure to explore MBL’s rigorously validated peptide-loaded tetramers for accurate, reproducible detection of antigen-specific T cells.

Proven Tetramer Technology for Comprehensive T Cell Characterization

MBL’s tetramers consist of four fluorescently labeled peptide-MHC complexes joined by streptavidin, increasing binding avidity to reveal antigen-specific T cells that monomeric MHC cannot detect. Each reagent undergoes rigorous quality control, HPLC validation, and precision peptide loading to ensure lot-to-lot consistency and low background noise.

Key features:

  • Available for human, mouse, macaque, and chicken MHC alleles
  • Broad peptide library: pathogens, tumor antigens, model systems
  • Multiple fluorochromes: FITC, PE, APC, and BV421
  • Patented α3-domain mutation (Ala245Val) minimizes nonspecific CD8 binding (Only human and macaque HLA Class I Tetramers contain the alpha 3 mutation).
  • QuickSwitch™ Kits allow rapid exchange of user-defined peptides in ≈ 4 hours

Gain Consistent Results for Reliable T Cell Analysis

Engineered for precision and stability, MBL Tetramers deliver dependable results you can trust, reducing variability and improving data reliability in every assay.

Exceptional Specificity

Patented α3-domain mutation reduces nonspecific binding, improving signal clarity.

Reproducible Accuracy

Stringent QC ensures lot-to-lot reliability for consistent cytometry results.

Broad Compatibility

Available in multiple alleles and fluorochromes for nearly any experimental system.

Flexible Customization

QuickSwitch™ Kits enable peptide screening and neoepitope validation.

Trusted Worldwide

Used in top research institutions for immunotherapy, infectious disease, and autoimmune studies.

Empowering Innovation Across T Cell Research

MBL Tetramers support T cell research across multiple areas:

  • Cancer Immunology: Quantify tumor-antigen-specific CD8⁺ T cells
  • Infectious Disease: Track responses to CMV, EBV, Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and more
  • Autoimmunity: Study self-reactive T cells in EAE, type 1 diabetes, and allergy models
  • Vaccine Development: Monitor antigen-specific T cell expansion post-immunization
  • Transplantation & Tolerance: Profile regulatory or allo-reactive T cell subsets

Tailored Tetramer & Monomer Solutions to Fit Your Research Needs

MBL’s MHC service provides a precision-engineered solution for the development of custom MHC class I and class II tetramers and monomers.

To ensure accuracy and performance, the MBL’s team applies a rigorous QC workflow that includes:

  • Peptide–MHC binding evaluation through a consensus-driven bioinformatic approach.
  • Peptide synthesis at >95% purity (typically ~99%) and verified for the expected molecular weight.
  • In-process and final SEC-HPLC quality control to ensure structural integrity, stability, and reliable performance.

Researchers can benefit from this personalized service by tapping into a portfolio of over 60 available alleles and streamlined ordering via Cosmo Bio USA.

Tailored Tetramer & Monomer Solutions to Fit Your Research Needs

Have questions or need guidance selecting the right tetramer?

Our scientific support team is here to help.