Immunofixation

Question 1

Outline the immunofixation procedure

Answer 1

Electrophoresis is first performed in agarose gel to separate the proteins in the mixture. Subsequently , antiserum spread directly on the gel causes the protein of interest to precipitate. the immune precipitate is trapped within the gel matrix, and all other non-precipitated protein are then removed by washing of the gel. Gel is then stained for identification of the proteins.

Question 2

List the proteins which may be identified by IF method.

Answer 2

myeloma proteins : anti IgG, IgM, IgA, and anti kappa chain

Question 3

List the purpose fo performing immunofixation electrophoresis

Answer 3

For the qualitative identification of monoclonal gammopathies in serum or urine

Question 4

State the reason why plasma may not be used for immunofixation.

Answer 4

Because the fibrinogen may adhere to the gel matrix resulting in all band in all patterns across the gel