molecular biology techniques

Question 1

Southern blotting

Answer 1

Detects DNA

Question 2

Northern blotting

Answer 2

Detects RNA

Question 3

Western blotting

Answer 3

Detects proteins
Uses gel electrophoresis to separate native proteins by 3-D structure
Examples include the confirmatory HIV test

Question 4

What is an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)? Give an example of a test which uses this technique

Answer 4

• biochemical assay used to detect antigens and antibodies
• colour changing enzyme is attached to the antibody if looking for an antigen and vice versa
• sample changes colour if either is detected
  E.g. initial HIV test