Anti-cortisol antibodies, reagents and kits for detecting cortisol

Abstract

This invention discloses antibodies against cortisol or reagents and kits for detecting cortisol, relating to the field of antibodies. The anti-cortisol antibody disclosed in this invention includes a heavy chain complementarity-determining region and a light chain complementarity-determining region. This antibody provides an important source of raw materials for the detection of cortisol and exhibits good affinity or activity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of antibody technology, and more specifically, to an anti-cortisol antibody, a reagent for detecting cortisol, and a kit. Background Technology

[0002] Cortisol, also known as hydrocortisone, is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. When the brain experiences stress, the pituitary gland secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which promotes the proliferation of adrenal cortex tissue and the production and secretion of corticosteroids. Cortisol secretion follows a cyclical pattern: levels rise sharply within 30 minutes of waking up, reaching their peak 30-45 minutes after waking, and then gradually decline throughout the day, reaching their lowest point before bedtime.

[0003] Under normal circumstances, cortisol can reduce sodium loss, temporarily improve memory, and help clear toxins from the liver. Under stress, cortisol helps maintain stable blood pressure and control excessive inflammation. However, excessive cortisol secretion has negative effects on the body. This is especially true when a person repeatedly experiences heavy stress, a fast-paced lifestyle, prolonged dieting, or chronic sleep deprivation, leading to long-term excessive cortisol secretion. In this case, cortisol can cause elevated blood sugar, increased appetite, weight gain, and extreme fatigue. Furthermore, abnormal cortisol secretion can also cause various illnesses. Cushing's syndrome is a typical example of an illness caused by excessive cortisol secretion, characterized by rapid weight gain, excessive sweating, easy bruising, and psychological disturbances. In addition, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is also closely related to abnormal cortisol secretion. The lifetime prevalence of this disease in adults is estimated at 4.1%–6.6%, with women being twice as likely as men to be affected. It not only severely impacts patients' quality of life, mental health, and social functioning but also often co-occurs with other diseases. Detecting cortisol levels helps in assessing a person's health, including diagnosing adrenal function, indirectly observing pituitary function, Cushing's syndrome, cardiovascular disease, stress, and mental illness. Therefore, timely and effective cortisol testing is crucial for understanding one's current physical condition.

[0004] Cortisol assays are typically performed using immunoassays or LC-MS. While LC-MS is accurate and sensitive, it requires expensive equipment, making it difficult for most laboratories to implement. Immunoassays, on the other hand, offer high sensitivity, low cost, and ease of use, making them suitable for widespread application. All immunological assays require antibodies targeting cortisol. Therefore, there is a strong demand in this field for antibodies that effectively bind to and detect cortisol. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an antibody or its antigen-binding fragment that provides an important source of raw materials for the detection of cortisol and has good activity or affinity.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is provided, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof comprising three complementary determining regions having a heavy chain variable region having any one of the amino acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and three complementary determining regions having a light chain variable region having any one of the amino acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 22, 23, 24, 25.

[0007] To achieve the above objective, according to a second aspect of the present invention, an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof is provided, said antibody or antigen-binding fragment comprising the following complementarity-determining region:

[0008] HCDR1, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:1 or 37;

[0009] HCDR2, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:2;

[0010] HCDR3, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:3 or 38;

[0011] LCDR1, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:4 or 39;

[0012] LCDR2, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:5;

[0013] LCDR3, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:6 or 41.

[0014] To achieve the above objectives, according to a third aspect of the present invention, an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof is provided, comprising a heavy chain variable region and / or a light chain variable region, wherein the amino acid sequence of the heavy chain variable region is shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21; and the amino acid sequence of the light chain variable region is shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 22, 23, 24, 25.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof is provided, comprising a heavy chain and / or a light chain, wherein the amino acid sequence of the heavy chain is as shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 26, 27, 28, 29, 30; and the amino acid sequence of the light chain is as shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 31, 32, 33, 34.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, an antibody conjugate is provided, the antibody conjugate comprising the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment described above.

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a reagent or kit is provided, the reagent or kit comprising the above-described antibody or its antigen-binding fragment or the above-described antibody conjugate.

[0018] To achieve the above objectives, according to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a method for detecting cortisol is provided, comprising: a) contacting the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment, antibody-drug conjugate, or reagent or kit with cortisol in a sample to be tested under conditions sufficient to induce an antibody / antigen binding reaction to form an immune complex; and b) detecting the presence of the immune complex, the presence of which indicates the presence of the antigen in the test sample.

[0019] To achieve the above objectives, according to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a nucleic acid is provided that encodes the aforementioned antibody or its antigen-binding fragment.

[0020] To achieve the above objectives, according to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a vector is provided, the vector comprising the above-described nucleic acid.

[0021] To achieve the above objectives, according to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a cell is provided, said cell comprising the above-described nucleic acid, vector, or expressing the above-described antibody or its antigen-binding fragment.

[0022] To achieve the above objectives, according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing the above-described antibody or its antigen-binding fragment is provided, the method comprising culturing the above-described cells.

[0023] To achieve the above objectives, according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the use of the above-described antibody or its antigen-binding fragment, antibody conjugate, reagent or kit in the detection or preparation of a cortisol detection product is provided. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 Results of reducing SDS-PAGE of Anti-CORT 11H10 Rmb1 to Rmb14. Detailed Implementation

[0026] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, the antibody or the antigen-binding fragment thereof comprising three complementary determining regions having a heavy chain variable region having any one of the amino acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 and three complementary determining regions having a light chain variable region having any one of the amino acid sequences SEQ ID NO: 22, 23, 24, 25.

[0027] It should be noted that HCDR1, HCDR2, and HCDR3 are amino acid sequences identical to those of HCDR1, HCDR2, and HCDR3 in the same heavy chain variable region defined in the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment described in the first aspect, and LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are amino acid sequences identical to those of LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 in the same light chain variable region defined in the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment described in the first aspect.

[0028] For example, HCDR1, HCDR2, and HCDR3 are amino acid sequences consistent with HCDR1, HCDR2, and HCDR3 of the heavy chain variable region shown in SEQ ID NO:17; LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are amino acid sequences consistent with LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 of the light chain variable region shown in SEQ ID NO:22.

[0029] In this invention, the term "antibody" is used in the broadest sense, and may include full-length monoclonal antibodies, bispecific or multispecific antibodies, and chimeric antibodies, as long as they exhibit the desired biological activity.

[0030] In this invention, the terms "complementarity-determining region," "CDR," or "CDRs" refer to highly variable regions of the heavy and light chains of immunoglobulins, specifically regions containing one or more, or even all, of the major amino acid residues that contribute to the binding of an antibody or antigen-binding fragment to the antigen or epitope it recognizes. In specific embodiments of this invention, CDRs refer to highly variable regions of the heavy and light chains of the antibody.

[0031] In this invention, the heavy chain complementarity determination region is represented by HCDR, which includes HCDR1, HCDR2 and HCDR3; the light chain complementarity determination region is represented by LCDR, which includes LCDR1, LCDR2 and LCDR3.

[0032] Methods for defining CDRs are well-known in the art and include: Kabat definition, Chothia definition, IMGT definition, Contact definition, and AbM definition. As described herein, "Kabat definition" refers to the definition system described in Kabat et al., USDept. of Health and Human Services, "Sequence of Proteins of Immunological Interest" (1983). "Chothia definition" is found in Chothia et al., J Mol Biol 196:901-917 (1987). Other CDR definition methods may not strictly follow one of the above schemes but will still overlap with at least a portion of the CDR region defined by Kabat, although they may be shortened or lengthened based on predictions or experimental results of specific residues or residue groups. Exemplary defined CDRs are listed in Table 1 below, although definitions vary slightly in different literature. Given the amino acid sequence of the variable region of an antibody, those skilled in the art can routinely determine which residues contain a specific CDR. It should be noted that CDRs defined by other methods, not limited to those in Table 1, are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0033] Table 1: CDR Definition 1

[0034]

[0035]

[0036] 1 The CDRs defined in Table 1 are numbered according to the Kabat numbering system (see below), with amino acid numbers on the heavy chain represented by "H + number" and amino acid numbers on the light chain represented by "L + number". Those skilled in the art can readily map this Kabat numbering system to any variable region sequence without relying on any experimental data outside the sequence itself. As used herein, "Kabat numbering" refers to the numbering system described by Kabat et al., USD ept. of Health and Human Services, "Sequence of Proteins of Immunological Interest" (1983).

[0037] 2As used in Table 1, “AbM” with a lowercase “b” refers to the CDR defined by the “AbM” antibody modeling software of Oxford Molecular.

[0038] 3 If neither H35A nor H35B exists, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 35; if only H35A exists, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 35A; if both H35A and H35B exist, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 35B.

[0039] 4 If neither H35A nor H35B exists, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 32; if only H35A exists, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 33; if both H35A and H35B exist, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 34.

[0040] 5 If neither H35A nor H35B exists, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 33; if only H35A exists, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 34; if both H35A and H35B exist, then CDR-H1 ends at bit 35.

[0041] According to embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2 or LCDR3 is defined by any one or a combination of systems such as Kabat, Chothia, IMGT, AbM or Contact.

[0042] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by the Kabat system.

[0043] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by the Chothia system.

[0044] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by the IMGT system.

[0045] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by the AbM system.

[0046] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by the Contact system.

[0047] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by a combination of Kabat, Chothia, IMGT, AbM, or Contact systems.

[0048] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the Kabat number positions corresponding to the amino acid sequences of HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, or LCDR3 defined by the Kabat, Chothia, AbM, or IMGT systems are as follows:

[0049] CDR Kabat AbM IMGT Chothia HCDR1 H31 - H35 H26 - H35 H26 - H33 H26 - H32 HCDR2 H50 - H65 H50 - H58 H51 - H57 H52 - H56 HCDR3 H95 - H102 H95 - H102 H93 - H102 H95 - H102 LCDR1 L24 - L34 L24 - L34 L27 - L32 L24 - L34 LCDR2 L50 - L56 L50 - L56 L50 - L51 L50 - L56 LCDR3 L89 - L97 L89 - L97 L89 - L97 L89 - L97

[0050] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, said antibody or antigen-binding fragment comprising the following complementarity-determining region:

[0051] HCDR1, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:1 or 37;

[0052] HCDR2, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:2;

[0053] HCDR3, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:3 or 38;

[0054] LCDR1, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:4 or 39;

[0055] LCDR2, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:5;

[0056] LCDR3, which contains, or is composed of, the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO:6 or 41.

[0057] In an optional embodiment, HCDR1, HCDR2, HCDR3, LCDR1, LCDR2, and LCDR3 are defined by the Kabat system.

[0058] In an optional embodiment, the complementary determination region is selected from any combination of the following:

[0059]

[0060] In this invention, the "frame region" or "FR" region includes the heavy chain frame region and the light chain frame region, referring to the regions in the antibody heavy chain variable region and light chain variable region other than the CDR; wherein, the heavy chain frame region can be further subdivided into adjacent regions separated by the CDR, including the HFR1, HFR2, HFR3 and HFR4 frame regions; the light chain frame region can be further subdivided into adjacent regions separated by the CDR, including the LFR1, LFR2, LFR3 and LFR4 frame regions.

[0061] In this invention, the heavy chain variable region is obtained by connecting the following numbered CDRs and FRs in the following combination: HFR1-HCDR1-HFR2-HCDR2-HFR3-HCDR3-HFR4; the light chain variable region is obtained by connecting the following numbered CDRs and FRs in the following combination: LFR1-LCDR1-LFR2-LCDR2-LFR3-LCDR3-LFR4.

[0062] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment described in the first or second aspect further comprises at least one of HFR1, HFR2, HFR3, HFR4, LFR1, LFR2, LFR3 and LFR4;

[0063] The HFR1 includes / is such as SEQ ID NO:7 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0064] The HFR2 includes / is, for example, SEQ ID NO:8 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0065] The HFR3 includes / is, for example, SEQ ID NO:9 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0066] The HFR4 includes / is, for example, SEQ ID NO:10 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0067] The LFR1 includes / is, for example, SEQ ID NO:11 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0068] The LFR2 includes / is, for example, SEQ ID NO:12 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0069] The LFR3 includes / is, for example, SEQ ID NO:13 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it;

[0070] The LFR4 includes / such as SEQ ID NO:14 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity with it.

[0071] It should be noted that, in other embodiments, the amino acid sequences of each frame region of the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment provided by the present invention may have at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% identity with the corresponding frame regions (SEQ ID NO: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14) mentioned above.

[0072] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the HFR1 includes / such as SEQ ID NO:35.

[0073] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the HFR1 includes / such as SEQ ID NO:36.

[0074] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the LFR2 includes / such as SEQ ID NO:40.

[0075] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment has a KD < 3.83 × 10⁻⁶. -7 M binds to cortisol with its affinity.

[0076] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment has a KD ≤ 10. -8 M, KD≤10 -9 M, KD≤10 -10 M, KD≤10 -11 M, KD≤10 -12 M binds to cortisol with its affinity.

[0077] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment has a KD ≤ 2.73 × 10⁻⁶. -8 M binds to cortisol with its affinity.

[0078] There are many methods for determining antibody affinity (KD), which can be categorized into thermodynamic detection methods, kinetic detection methods, and dynamic equilibrium detection methods based on their detection principles. Common thermodynamic detection methods include isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC); common kinetic detection methods include surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and biomembrane optical interferometry (BLI); and common dynamic equilibrium detection methods include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

[0079] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, KD is measured using a kinetic detection method; optionally, surface plasmon resonance, for example, by using a method such as The system's biosensor system.

[0080] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, comprising a heavy chain variable region and / or a light chain variable region, wherein the amino acid sequence of the heavy chain variable region is as shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 17, 18, 19, 20, 21; and the amino acid sequence of the light chain variable region is as shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 22, 23, 24, 25.

[0081] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the heavy chain variable region and the light chain variable region described in the first or third aspect above are selected from any combination of the following:

[0082] Combination Heavy chain variable region Light chain variable region 1 SEQ ID NO:17 SEQ ID NO:22 2 SEQ ID NO:18 SEQ ID NO:22 3 SEQ ID NO:19 SEQ ID NO:22 4 SEQ ID NO:21 SEQ ID NO:22 5 SEQ ID NO:17 SEQ ID NO:25 6 SEQ ID NO:17 SEQ ID NO:24 7 SEQ ID NO:17 SEQ ID NO:23 8 SEQ ID NO:20 SEQ ID NO:22 9 SEQ ID NO:18 SEQ ID NO:22 10 SEQ ID NO:19 SEQ ID NO:22 11 SEQ ID NO:21 SEQ ID NO:22 12 SEQ ID NO:20 SEQ ID NO:25 13 SEQ ID NO:20 SEQ ID NO:24 14 SEQ ID NO:20 SEQ ID NO:23

[0083] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof described in the first, second or third aspects above further includes a constant region.

[0084] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the constant region includes a heavy chain constant region and / or a light chain constant region.

[0085] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the heavy chain constant region is selected from any one of the heavy chain constant regions of IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE or IgD or a combination of segments of multiple heavy chain constant regions.

[0086] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the heavy chain constant region includes the CH1 region of IgG, the hinge region of IgG, the CH2 region of IgM, the CH3 region of IgM, and / or the CH4 region of IgM.

[0087] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the IgG is selected from IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 or IgG4.

[0088] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the light chain constant region is selected from the κ-type or λ-type light chain constant region.

[0089] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the species source of the constant region is cattle, horses, dairy cows, pigs, sheep, rats, mice, dogs, cats, rabbits, donkeys, deer, mink, chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, fighting cocks, or humans.

[0090] In some alternative embodiments of the invention, the species source of the constant region is sheep.

[0091] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the heavy chain constant region sequence (CH) is as shown in SEQ ID NO:15, and the light chain constant region sequence (CL) is as shown in SEQ ID NO:16.

[0092] It should be noted that, in other embodiments, the constant region sequence may have at least 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity with the aforementioned constant region (SEQ ID NO: 15 or 16).

[0093] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the antigen-binding fragment is selected from any one of the antibody's F(ab')2, Fab', Fab, Fv, and scFv.

[0094] The antigen-binding fragments of the aforementioned antibodies typically possess the same binding specificity as the source antibody. Those skilled in the art will readily understand, based on the description of this invention, that the antigen-binding fragments of the aforementioned antibodies can be obtained, for example, by enzymatic digestion (including pepsin or papain) and / or by chemical reduction of disulfide bonds. Based on the complete antibody structure disclosed in this invention, those skilled in the art can readily obtain the aforementioned antigen-binding fragments.

[0095] The antigen-binding fragments of the aforementioned antibodies can also be obtained by recombinant genetic techniques known to those skilled in the art or by synthesizing, for example, automated peptide synthesizers sold by Applied BioSystems.

[0096] Fourthly, the present invention provides an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, comprising a heavy chain and / or a light chain, wherein the amino acid sequence of the heavy chain is as shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 26, 27, 28, 29, 30; and the amino acid sequence of the light chain is as shown in any one of SEQ ID NO: 31, 32, 33, 34.

[0097] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof described in the first, second, third, or fourth aspects above includes any combination of the heavy chain and light chain:

[0098] Combination Heavy chain Light chain 1 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:31 2 SEQ ID NO:27 SEQ ID NO:31 3 SEQ ID NO:28 SEQ ID NO:31 4 SEQ ID NO:30 SEQ ID NO:31 5 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:34 6 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:33 7 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:32 8 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:31 9 SEQ ID NO:27 SEQ ID NO:31 10 SEQ ID NO:28 SEQ ID NO:31 11 SEQ ID NO:30 SEQ ID NO:31 12 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:34 13 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:33 14 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:32

[0099] Fifthly, the present invention provides an antibody conjugate comprising the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment described above.

[0100] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the antibody conjugate further includes biotin or a biotin derivative conjugated to the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment.

[0101] In some alternative embodiments of the invention, the antibody conjugate further includes a marker conjugated to the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment.

[0102] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the above-mentioned marker refers to a class of substances that have characteristics such as luminescence, color development, and radioactivity that can be directly observed by the naked eye or detected or detected by instruments. Through these characteristics, qualitative or quantitative detection of the corresponding target can be achieved.

[0103] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the markers include, but are not limited to, fluorescent dyes, enzymes, radioisotopes, chemiluminescent reagents, and nanoparticle markers.

[0104] In practical use, those skilled in the art can select appropriate markers according to the detection conditions or actual needs. Regardless of the marker used, it falls within the protection scope of this invention.

[0105] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the fluorescent dyes include, but are not limited to, fluorescein dyes and their derivatives (e.g., including but not limited to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), hydroxyfluorescein (FAM), tetrachlorofluorescein (TET), etc., or their analogues), rhodamine dyes and their derivatives (e.g., including but not limited to red rhodamine (RBITC), tetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA), rhodamine B (TRITC), etc., or their analogues), and Cy series dyes and their derivatives (e.g., including but not limited to Cy2, Cy3, Cy3B, Cy3.5). Cy5, Cy5.5, Cy3, etc. or similar), Alexa series dyes and their derivatives (including but not limited to Alexa Fluor 350, 405, 430, 488, 532, 546, 555, 568, 594, 610, 33, 647, 680, 700, 750, etc. or similar) and protein dyes and their derivatives (including but not limited to phycoerythrin (PE), phycocyanin (PC), allophycocyanin (APC), polydiophytoxanthin-chlorophyll protein (preCP), etc.).

[0106] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the enzymes include, but are not limited to, horseradish peroxidase, alkaline phosphatase, β-galactosidase, glucose oxidase, carbonic anhydrase, acetylcholinesterase, and glucose-6-phosphate deoxygenase.

[0107] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the radioactive isotopes include, but are not limited to, 212Bi, 131I, 111In, 90Y, 186Re, 211At, 125I, 188Re, 153Sm, 213Bi, 32P, 94mTc, 99mTc, 203Pb, 67Ga, 68Ga, 43Sc, 47Sc, 110mIn, 97Ru, 62Cu, 64Cu, 67Cu, 68Cu, 86Y, 88Y, 121Sn, 161Tb, 166Ho, 105Rh, 177Lu, 172Lu, and 18F.

[0108] In some optional embodiments of the present invention, the chemiluminescent reagents include, but are not limited to, luminol and its derivatives, luciferin, fluorescein and its derivatives, ruthenium bipyridine and its derivatives, acridine ester and its derivatives, dioxane and its derivatives, rofenine and its derivatives, and peroxyoxalate and its derivatives.

[0109] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the nanoparticle-type markers include, but are not limited to, nanoparticles, colloids, organic nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, quantum dot nanoparticles, and rare earth complex nanoparticles.

[0110] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the colloid includes, but is not limited to, colloidal metals, dispersed dyes, dye-labeled microspheres, and latexes.

[0111] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the colloidal metal includes, but is not limited to, colloidal gold, colloidal silver, and colloidal selenium.

[0112] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the colloidal metal is colloidal gold.

[0113] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the antibody conjugate further includes a solid-phase carrier conjugated to the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment.

[0114] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the solid support is selected from microspheres, plates, and membranes.

[0115] In some alternative embodiments of the present invention, the solid support includes, but is not limited to, magnetic microspheres, plastic microspheres, plastic microparticles, microporous plates, glass, capillaries, nylon, and nitrocellulose membranes.

[0116] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a reagent or kit comprising the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof described above or the antibody-conjugate described above.

[0117] As previously stated, the antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof in some embodiments or examples of the present invention can effectively bind to cortisol. Therefore, reagents or kits containing the cortisol antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof can effectively perform qualitative or quantitative detection of cortisol. The reagents or kits provided by the present invention can be used, for example, for detections involving the specific binding properties of cortisol and its antibodies, such as immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation. As previously stated, the antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof in some embodiments or examples of the present invention have higher binding activity or affinity for cortisol; therefore, reagents or kits containing the antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof have higher detection sensitivity or specificity.

[0118] In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting cortisol, comprising: a) contacting the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment, antibody conjugate, reagent or kit with cortisol in a sample to be tested under conditions sufficient to induce an antibody / antigen binding reaction to form an immune complex; and b) detecting the presence of the immune complex, the presence of the complex indicating the presence of the antigen in the test sample.

[0119] Eighthly, the present invention provides a nucleic acid molecule encoding the above-mentioned antibody or its antigen-binding fragment.

[0120] In a ninth aspect, the present invention provides a carrier containing the above-mentioned nucleic acid molecules.

[0121] In a tenth aspect, the present invention provides cells containing the above-described carrier.

[0122] In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for preparing an antibody or an antigen-binding fragment thereof, comprising: culturing cells as described above.

[0123] In a twelfth aspect, the present invention provides the use of the above-described antibody or its antigen-binding fragment, antibody conjugate, or the above-described reagent or kit in the detection of cortisol or the preparation of products for detecting cortisol.

[0124] Based on the amino acid sequence of the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment disclosed in this invention, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of preparing the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment using genetic engineering or other techniques (chemical synthesis, recombinant expression). For example, the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment can be isolated and purified from the culture product of recombinant cells capable of recombinantly expressing the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment as described in any of the preceding claims. This is easily achievable by those skilled in the art. Therefore, regardless of the technique used to prepare the antibody or its antigen-binding fragment of this invention, it falls within the protection scope of this invention.

[0125] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below. Where specific conditions are not specified in the embodiments, conventional conditions or conditions recommended by the manufacturer shall apply. Reagents or instruments whose manufacturers are not specified are all conventional products that can be purchased commercially.

[0126] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. While any methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of formulations or unit doses herein, some methods and materials are described hereby. Unless otherwise stated, the techniques employed or considered herein are standard methods. Materials, methods, and examples are illustrative and not limiting in nature.

[0127] Unless otherwise specified, the practice of this invention will employ conventional techniques of cell biology, molecular biology (including recombinant technologies), microbiology, biochemistry, and immunology, which are within the capabilities of those skilled in the art. This technique is well explained in the literature, such as *Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual*, 2nd edition (Sambrook et al., 1989); *Oligonucleotide Synthesis* (edited by M.J. Gait, 1984); *Animal Cell Culture* (edited by R.R. Freshney, 1987); *Methods in Enzymology* (Academic Press, Inc.); *Handbook of Experimental Immunology* (edited by D.M. Weir and C.C. Blackwell); *Gene Transfer Vectors for Mammalian Cells* (edited by J.M. Miller and M.P. Calos, 1987); *Current Protocols in Molecular Biology* (edited by F.M. Mausubel et al., 1987); and *PCR: The Polymerase Chain Reaction*. The references cited in the references are: "Reaction" (Mullis et al., ed., 1994); and "Current Protocols in Immunology" (JEColigan et al., ed., 1991), each of which is explicitly incorporated herein by reference.

[0128] The features and performance of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to embodiments.

[0129] Example 1: Preparation of Anti-CORT 11H10 Monoclonal Antibody

[0130] In this embodiment, restriction endonucleases and Prime Star DNA polymerase were purchased from Takara. The MagExtractor RNA extraction kit was purchased from TOYOBO. BD SMART TMThe RACE cDNA Amplification Kit and pMD-18T vector were purchased from Takara. The plasmid extraction kit was purchased from Tiangen Biotech. Primer synthesis and gene sequencing were performed by Invitrogen. The hybridoma cell line secreting the Anti-CORT 11H10 monoclonal antibody was a hybridoma cell line prepared in our laboratory and was revived for later use.

[0131] (1) Antibody gene preparation

[0132] mRNA was extracted from hybridoma cell lines secreting Anti-CORT 11H10 monoclonal antibody, and DNA products were obtained by RT-PCR. The product was then inserted into the pMD-18T vector after an A-addition reaction with rTaq DNA polymerase. The vector was then transformed into DH5α competent cells. After bacterial growth, four clones of the Heavy Chain and Light Chain genes were collected and sent to a gene sequencing company for sequencing.

[0133] (2) Sequence analysis of the variable region gene of Anti-CORT 11H10 antibody

[0134] The gene sequences obtained from the sequencing were analyzed in the Kabat antibody database and VNTI11.5 software was used to confirm that the genes amplified by both heavy and light chain primer pairs were correct. Among the gene fragments amplified by the Light Chain primer pair, the VL gene sequence was 327 bp, with a 57 bp leader peptide sequence preceding it; among the gene fragments amplified by the Heavy Chain primer pair, the VH gene sequence was 366 bp, belonging to the VH1 gene family, with a 57 bp leader peptide sequence preceding it.

[0135] (3) Construction of recombinant antibody expression plasmid

[0136] pcDNA TM 3.4 The vector is a constructed recombinant antibody eukaryotic expression vector. This expression vector has been introduced with multiple cloning restriction sites such as HindIII, BamHI, and EcoRI, and is named pcDNA3.4A expression vector, hereinafter referred to as 3.4A expression vector. Based on the sequencing results of the variable region gene of the antibody in pMD-18T, VL and VH gene-specific primers of this antibody were designed, with HindIII and EcoRI restriction sites and protective bases at both ends, respectively. The 0.71kb Light Chain gene fragment and the 1.42kb Heavy Chain gene fragment were amplified by PCR.

[0137] The Heavy Chain and Light Chain gene fragments were digested with HindIII / EcoRI, and the 3.4A vector was also digested with HindIII / EcoRI. After purification and recovery of the fragments and vector, the Heavy Chain gene and Light Chain gene were ligated into the 3.4A expression vector to obtain recombinant expression plasmids of Heavy Chain and Light Chain, respectively.

[0138] 2. Recombinant antibody production

[0139] HEK293 cells were revived early and passaged to a 200ml volume to achieve a cell density of 3–5 × 10⁻⁶ cells / mL. 6 Cell density reached the required antibody concentration and cell viability >95%; cells were washed by centrifugation, reconstituted with culture medium, and the cell density was adjusted to 2.9 × 10⁻⁶ cells / ml. 6 Cells were washed at a concentration of cells / ml and reconstituted with culture medium, which served as a cell dilution buffer. Plasmid DNA and transfection reagent dilution buffers were prepared separately using culture medium. The transfection reagent dilution buffer was added to the plasmid DNA dilution buffer, mixed well, and incubated at room temperature for 15 min. This mixture was then slowly added to the cell dilution buffer over 1 min, mixed well, and samples were taken for cell counting. Cell viability after transfection was recorded and observed. The cells were then incubated at 35°C with a rotation speed of 120 rpm and a CO2 concentration of 8%. After 13 days, the samples were centrifuged and collected. The supernatant was purified using a protein A affinity chromatography column. 6 μg of the purified antibody was subjected to reducing SDS-PAGE, and the electrophoresis result is shown in the figure. The reducing SDS-PAGE showed two bands: one with a Mr of 50 kDa (heavy chain) and the other with a Mr of 28 kDa (light chain).

[0140] The resulting antibody was named Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb1. Mutations were performed on Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb1 to obtain a mutant antibody. The heavy chain (H) and light chain (L) sequences of the above antibody are shown in the table below:

[0141] Table 2 Antibody Sequences

[0142] Antibody name Heavy chain Light chain Anti - CORT 11H10Rmb1 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti - CORT 11H10Rmb2 SEQ ID NO:27 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb3 SEQ ID NO:28 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb4 SEQ ID NO:30 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb5 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:34 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb6 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:33 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb7 SEQ ID NO:26 SEQ ID NO:32 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb8 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb9 SEQ ID NO:27 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb10 SEQ ID NO:28 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb11 SEQ ID NO:30 SEQ ID NO:31 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb12 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:34 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb13 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:33 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb14 SEQ ID NO:29 SEQ ID NO:32

[0143] Example 2: Antibody Performance Detection

[0144] 1. Affinity Analysis

[0145] The antibody was pre-diluted and purified, while the cortisol-BSA (from Phytobio) was serially diluted. Using a Protein G chip, the binding and dissociation curves of the antigen and antibody were tested on a Biacore 8K+ device. The instrument automatically fitted the curves to obtain the affinity constant, binding rate, and dissociation rate. (KD represents the equilibrium dissociation constant, i.e., the affinity constant; ka represents the binding rate; kd represents the dissociation rate)

[0146] Table 3 Affinity Data

[0147] Sample Name KD ka kd Comparison 3.83E-07 1.81E+04 6.93E-03 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb1 7.07E-09 7.27E+04 5.14E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb2 7.11E-09 7.24E+04 5.15E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb3 7.06E-09 7.22E+04 5.10E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb4 7.17E-09 7.34E+04 5.26E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb5 8.45E-09 4.44E+04 3.75E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb6 2.16E-08 3.11E+04 6.73E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb7 2.73E-08 3.04E+04 8.30E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb8 2.51E-08 3.17E+04 7.96E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb9 2.34E-08 3.06E+04 7.16E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb10 8.19E-09 3.28E+04 2.69E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb11 8.27E-09 3.41E+04 2.82E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb12 8.15E-09 3.37E+04 2.75E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb13 8.07E-09 3.84E+04 3.10E-04 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb14 5.49E-09 3.15E+04 1.73E-04

[0148] 2. Activity identification

[0149] Coating buffer (main component NaHCO3) was diluted with cortisol-BSA (from Phypeng Biotechnology) to 3ug / ml, 100uL per well, incubated overnight at 4℃. The next day, the wells were washed twice with washing buffer (main components Na2HPO4 + NaCl) and patted dry. Blocking buffer (20% BSA + 80% PBS) was added, 120uL per well, incubated at 37℃ for 1 hour, and patted dry. Diluted purified antibody and control antibody were added, 100uL / well, incubated at 37℃ for 30 minutes. The wells were washed 5 times with washing buffer and patted dry. Mouse anti-goat IgG-HRP was added, 100uL per well, incubated at 37℃ for 30 minutes. The wells were washed 5 times with washing buffer and patted dry. Chromogenic solution A (50uL / well) and chromogenic solution B (50uL / well) were added, incubated for 10 minutes. Stop solution was added, 50uL / well. The OD value was read at 450nm (630nm for reference) on a microplate reader.

[0150] Notes: Solution A (main components: citric acid + sodium acetate + acetanilide + urea peroxide); Solution B (main components: citric acid + EDTA·2Na + TMB + concentrated HCl); Stop solution (EDTA·2Na + concentrated H2SO4)

[0151] Table 4 Activity Data

[0152] Concentration (ng / ml) 250 125 62.5 31.25 15.63 0 Comparison 0.481 0.202 0.105 0.076 0.073 0.054 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb1 0.966 0.492 0.273 0.143 0.013 0.088 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb2 0.975 0.489 0.272 0.146 0.015 0.082 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb3 0.969 0.483 0.270 0.144 0.020 0.067 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb4 0.970 0.497 0.268 0.151 0.017 0.072 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb5 0.551 0.249 0.127 0.097 0.075 0.057 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb6 0.792 0.336 0.153 0.108 0.080 0.080 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb7 1.113 0.847 0.284 0.117 0.071 0.071 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb8 1.543 1.089 0.463 0.182 0.095 0.085 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb9 1.952 0.957 0.547 0.205 0.158 0.069 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb10 1.249 0.454 0.214 0.103 0.089 0.070 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb11 1.517 0.821 0.267 0.084 0.078 0.055 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb12 1.824 0.627 0.176 0.067 0.065 0.052 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb13 1.672 0.641 0.191 0.079 0.058 0.055 Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb14 1.621 0.948 0.583 0.376 0.262 0.076

[0153] 3. Stability assessment

[0154] The above-mentioned antibodies were placed at 4℃ (refrigerator), -80℃ (refrigerator), and 37℃ (incubator) for 21 days. Samples were taken at 7, 14, and 21 days for observation of their state, and the activity of the 21-day sample was tested. The results showed that no significant changes in protein state were observed under the three testing conditions after 21 days, and the activity did not decrease with increasing testing temperature, indicating that the above-mentioned antibodies were stable. Table 5 below shows the OD results of enzyme immunoassay for antibody Anti-CORT 11H10Rmb14 after 21 days of testing.

[0155] Table 5 Stability Data

[0156] Sample concentration (ng / ml) 250 125 0 4℃, 21-day sample 1.667 0.977 0.014 -80℃, 21-day sample 1.659 0.975 0.021 37℃, 21-day sample 1.670 0.969 0.017

[0157] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0158] The partial amino acid sequences involved in this application are shown in Table 6:

[0159] Table 6 Amino acid sequences

[0160]

[0161]

Claims

1. An anti-cortisol antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof, characterized in that, the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 21 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 23; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 21 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 22; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 25; the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are three complementarity determining regions of a heavy chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 20 and three complementarity determining regions of a light chain variable region having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 23; the complementarity determining regions are defined by any one of the Kabat, Chothia, IMGT, AbM, or Contact systems.

2. An anti-cortisol antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof, characterized in that, the complementarity determining regions of the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof are selected from any one of the following combinations:

3. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 1 or 2, wherein, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof further has HFR1, HFR2, HFR3, HFR4, LFR1, LFR2, LFR3, and LFR4.

4. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 3, wherein, the HFR1 comprises SEQ ID NO: 7 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity thereto; the HFR2 comprises SEQ ID NO: 8 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity thereto; the HFR3 comprises SEQ ID NO: 9 or an amino acid sequence having at least 80% identity thereto; the HFR4 comprises SEQ ID NO: 10 or an amino acid sequence at least 80% identical thereto; the LFR1 comprises SEQ ID NO: 11 or an amino acid sequence at least 80% identical thereto; the LFR2 comprises SEQ ID NO: 12 or an amino acid sequence at least 80% identical thereto; the LFR3 comprises SEQ ID NO: 13 or an amino acid sequence at least 80% identical thereto; the LFR4 comprises SEQ ID NO: 14 or an amino acid sequence at least 80% identical thereto.

5. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 2, 4, wherein, The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof binds to Cortisol with a KD < 3.83 x 10 -7 M binds to Cortisol with high affinity.

6. An anti-cortisol antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof comprising a heavy chain variable region and a light chain variable region, characterized in that, the heavy chain variable region and the light chain variable region are selected from any one combination of:

7. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 2, 4, 6, wherein, the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof further comprises a constant region.

8. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 7, wherein, the constant region comprises a heavy chain constant region and a light chain constant region.

9. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 8, wherein, the heavy chain constant region is selected from a heavy chain constant region of any one of IgGl, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgA, IgM, IgE or IgD or a combination of segments of multiple heavy chain constant regions.

10. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 7, wherein, the heavy chain constant region comprises a CHI region of IgG, a hinge region of IgG, a CH2 region of IgM, a CH3 region of IgM and / or a CH4 region of IgM.

11. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 7, wherein, the species origin of the constant region is bovine, equine, porcine, ovine, rat, mouse, dog, cat, rabbit, donkey, deer, mink, chicken, duck, goose or human.

12. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 7, wherein, the species origin of the constant region is ovine.

13. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of claim 8, wherein, the heavy chain constant region sequence is set forth in SEQ ID NO: 15 or is at least 80% identical thereto; and the light chain constant region sequence is set forth in SEQ ID NO: 16 or is at least 80% identical thereto.

14. The antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 2, 4, 6, wherein, the antigen-binding fragment is selected from any one of F(ab')2, Fab', Fab, Fv and scFv of the antibody.

15. An anti-cortisol antibody comprising a heavy chain and a light chain, wherein the heavy chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and the light chain comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:

2. the amino acid sequence of the heavy chain and the amino acid sequence of the light chain are selected from any one combination of:

16. An antibody conjugate, characterized in that, the antibody conjugate comprises the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 14 or the antibody of claim 15 and biotin or a label conjugated to the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof.

17. The antibody conjugate of claim 16, wherein, the label is selected from a fluorescent dye, an enzyme, a radioisotope, a chemiluminescent reagent and a nanoparticle-based label.

18. An antibody conjugate, characterized in that, the antibody conjugate comprises the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 14 or the antibody of claim 15 and a solid support conjugated to the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof.

19. The antibody conjugate of claim 18, wherein, the solid support is selected from a microsphere, a plate and a membrane.

20. A reagent or kit characterized in that, the reagent or kit comprises the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 14 or the antibody of claim 15 or the antibody conjugate of any one of claims 17 to 19.

21. Use of an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof according to any one of claims 1 to 14, an antibody according to claim 15, an antibody conjugate according to any one of claims 17 to 19, or a reagent or kit according to claim 20 for the manufacture of a test for detecting a Cortisol product, characterised in that, comprising: a) contacting the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 14, the antibody of claim 15, the antibody conjugate of any one of claims 17 to 19 or the reagent or kit of claim 20 with cortisol in a sample to be tested under conditions sufficient for an antibody / antigen binding reaction to occur to form an immunocomplex; and b) detecting the immunocomplex. b) detecting the presence of said immune complex, the presence of said complex being indicative of the presence of said antigen in the test sample.

22. A nucleic acid, comprising: which encodes the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof of any one of claims 1 to 14 or the antibody of claim 15.

23. A vector, comprising: a nucleic acid molecule according to claim 22. which comprises the nucleic acid of claim 22.

24. A cell, comprising: which comprises the nucleic acid of claim 22 or the vector of claim 23.

25. A method of preparing an antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof according to any one of claims 1 to 14 or an antibody according to claim 15, characterized in that, which comprises: culturing the cell of claim 24.

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