polyclonal

[ pol-ee-klohn-l ]

adjective

1. Biology. pertaining to cells or cell products derived from several lines of clones.

noun

1. Immunology. polyclonal antibody.

Word History and Origins

Origin of polyclonal¹

1960–65; poly- + clonal ( def )

Example Sentences

While there are more possible flu virus strains, vaccination still provides broad protection against illness, hospitalization, and death from any flu viruses because of the polyclonal memory immunity we generate.

From Slate

The vaccines also produce polyclonal antibodies that work against multiple parts of the spike protein, she said.

From Salon

They trigger so-called polyclonal antibodies — a heterogeneous mix of IgGs against the whole virus.

From Seattle Times

“If the monoclonal antibody clears your nose, it’s reasonable to think that the vaccine’s polyclonal antibodies would also,” said Gandhi.

From Seattle Times

"Both vaccination against and natural infection with SARS-CoV-2 produce a 'polyclonal; response that targets several parts of the spike protein," states the CDC.

From Salon