Efficient generation of antibodies to oncoproteins by using synthetic peptide antigens.

To examine the efficiency of generating protein-reactive antipeptide antibodies, 35 peptides encoded by retroviral or cellular oncogenes were used to immunize rabbits. Thirty-two peptides elicited antipeptide antibodies, of which 56% reacted with their respective oncoproteins. The length of the immunizing peptide was an important factor in generating antibodies reactive with native protein. Similar peptides differing in a single or a few amino acids could elicite antisera of markedly different reactivities.