Nanobody naïve library
The typical workflow for the discovery of nanobodies using a naïve library can be broken down into the following steps:
Nanobody selection
The naïve library is then screened against the target antigen of interest using a process called bio-panning. This involves incubating the library with the target antigen and then washing away any non-specific binders. The remaining binders are eluted and amplified, and the process is repeated for several rounds to enrich high-affinity binders.
Nanobody production and purification
Once the desired nanobodies have been identified, we produce them in large quantities using recombinant protein expression systems. This involves cloning the selected antibodies into expression vectors and transfecting them into host cells. The antibodies are then purified to high levels of purity using standard laboratory techniques.
Antibody validation
Finally, we validate the selected nanobodies for their binding specificity and functionality. We use a range of methods, including ELISA, Western blotting, and functional assays, to confirm the binding properties of the antibodies. We work closely with our clients to ensure that the selected antibodies meet their specific needs and requirements.
Overall, the discovery of nanobodies using a naïve library is a powerful technique for generating highly specific and stable binders with a wide range of potential applications.

Service highlights
- Megadiverse naïve VHH library containing 4.7 × 10^11 unique VHH clones as determined by NGS
- The library obtained from 77 healthy, non-immunized camelids (51 Alpacas, 13 Llamas, 13 camels)
- Nearly 100% VHH insert rate
Our naïve library screening service includes:
- Analysis of customer-provided antigen
- 4 rounds of screening
- ELISA testing 192 random clones
- Sequencing up to 50 positive clones
Turnaround time for discovery services
Phase no. | Items | Timeline | Deliverables |
---|---|---|---|
I | Antigen preparation | TBD | QC reports |
II | Antigen-specific binder screening | ~3 weeks | Enriched antigen-specific phage after 3~4 rounds of panning |
III | Binder identification and validation | ~3 weeks | Sequences of positive clones, purified binders, bioactivity validation |
IV | Data analysis and report writing | ~1 week | Project final report |
Total | 1.5~2 months for naïve nanobody discovery |