When Connectomics scientists set out to find a better way map neural connections with nanoscale precision, they faced an obstacle: no existing antibodies for some of their protein tags

So they turned to ProSci.

In a groundbreaking preprint on bioRxiv—“Combinatorial protein barcodes enable self-correcting neuron tracing with nanoscale molecular context”—researchers from E11 Bio unveiled PRISM, a new platform that combines protein barcodes, tissue expansion, and iterative immunostaining to reconstruct neurons with extraordinary accuracy.

To make it possible, they needed custom antibodies that didn’t yet exist.

ProSci was honored to be able to create them.

Enabling Discovery When No Antibody Exists

The PRISM method uses engineered “barcode” proteins to label individual neurons, allowing computers to trace entire networks with molecular context. Each barcode must be detectable with an antibody that’s:

• Highly specific to its target
• Stable through multiple rounds of staining and stripping
• Free from cross-reactivity with dozens of other epitopes

For the PRISM team, three key tags for the protein bits—MOON, SUN, and TAG-100—had no commercially available antibodies.

“Custom antibodies were produced by ProSci against MOON, SUN, and TAG-100, as there were no commercially available antibodies suitable for PRISM multiplexing.”
— Excerpt from the PRISM methods section

Using our custom polyclonal development workflow, ProSci synthesized peptides, conjugated them for immunization, validated them by ELISA, and affinity-purified each antibody for integration into the PRISM imaging pipeline. The result: three new, high-performance antibodies that helped researchers map the brain in ways never before possible.

What Makes PRISM Revolutionary

PRISM (Protein-barcode Reconstruction via Iterative Staining with Molecular annotations) breaks through the limits of traditional fluorescent labeling. Instead of being confined to a handful of colors, PRISM’s combinatorial protein barcodes expand labeling diversity by more than 750-fold.

By pairing barcode-specific antibodies with expansion microscopy and machine-learning-based segmentation, PRISM enables:

• Self-correcting neuron tracing that reconnects discontinuous neurites
• Molecular annotation of synaptic markers (Bassoon, PSD95)
• 8× higher tracing accuracy than previous automated methods

It’s a new era for connectomics—and custom antibody services for new technologies like the PRISM platform helps to resolve lab reagent limitations.

ProSci’s Role in Pioneering Science

At ProSci, we exist to support innovation wherever it happens.
From research-use antibody products to fully custom polyclonal, monoclonal, and recombinant antibody services, our scientists collaborate with investigators to solve complex challenges—especially when the required reagent doesn’t yet exist.

Our part to supportthe PRISM project exemplifies what we stand for:

Trusted antibodies. Personal care.

We’re proud to know that our work helped illuminate the intricate wiring of the brain—and excited to continue enabling the discoveries that will shape the future of neuroscience, therapeutics, and diagnostics.

When no antibody exists, we make one.

Explore ProSci’s Custom Antibody Services → https://www.prosciantibodies.com/services/
Or reach out to discuss your next project: abservices@geneseesci.com