enzyme-linked immuno-sobert assay (ELISA)

Question 1

what is the primary use of ELISA?

Answer 1

technique that uses the antigen-antibody interactions to determine presence of either one

Question 2

ELISA can detect presence of?

Answer 2

antigens (like proteins or cytokines)
&
specific immunoglobulins (anitbodies)

Question 3

in the basic protocol, the process begins by

Answer 3

obtaining a sample in order to test for the presence of a specific antigen
ex samples: tumor biopsy or patient’s serum

Question 4

step 1:

Answer 4

the experimental wells are coated with antibodies that are specific to the antigen being detected

Question 5

step 2:

Answer 5

the sample (serum or cell extract) is added into the wells

Question 6

step 3:

Answer 6

if the antigens are present, the antibodies will immobilize them by binding

Question 7

step 4:

Answer 7

any unbound proteins remaining are washed away

Question 8

step 5:

Answer 8

an enzyme-linked antibody (recognizes target protein) is added to the wells

Question 9

step 6:

Answer 9

the wells are filled with solution that changes color in the presence of detection enzyme (step 5)

Question 10

results:

Answer 10

color change indicates that target protein was present in the sample
no color means protein was absent

Question 11

ELISA is used in real life for tests such as

Answer 11

viral infections

HIV