Commercial antibodies: the good, bad, and really ugly.

The range of antibodies available commercially grows ever larger. Perhaps as a consequence, quality control is not always what it could and should be. Investigators must be aware of potential pitfalls and take steps to assure themselves that the specificity of each antibody is as advertised. Additionally, companies should provide the necessary information about the antigen and antibody to investigators, including references, so that the appropriate controls can be included.