MHC Tetramers

High-Performance MHC Tetramers for
Accurate T Cell Detection

High Specificity
Validated
Research Ready

Achieve Precise T Cell identification with
High-Sensitivity MHC Tetramers

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 Reliable, Reproducible Results for Every Application

The CosmoSonic II supports a wide range of cell disruption and lysis workflows, giving researchers a single, reliable platform for consistent processing across multiple sample types and assays.

High-Parallel Throughput

Process up to 12 × 50 mL or 48 × 0.5 mL tubes at once.

Consistent Temperature Control

Synchronized cooling prevents overheating and protects sample integrity.

Contamination-Controlled Workflow

Hermetically sealed chamber, testable as biohazard-, contamination-, and radioisotope-free.

Safe, Quiet Operation

Sound-absorbing enclosure and anti-tip straps ensure safe daily use.

Easy Setup & Training

Intuitive control panel and automatic water-surface stabilization.

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Empowering Innovation Across T Cell Research

MBL Tetramers support T cell research across multiple areas:

Cancer Immunology: Quantify tumor-antigen-specific CD8⁺ T cellsInfectious Disease: Track responses to CMV, EBV, Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and moreAutoimmunity: Study self-reactive T cells in EAE, type 1 diabetes, and allergy modelsVaccine Development: Monitor antigen-specific T cell expansion post-immunizationTransplantation & 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.

Have questions or need guidance
selecting the right tetramer?

Our scientific support team is here to help.