ELISA stands for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. It is a commonly used laboratory technique in immunology that enables the detection and quantification of proteins, peptides, antibodies, hormones, and other biological substances. Essentially, ELISA is a sensitive, specific, and precise method used to measure the presence and concentration of a target molecule in a given sample.
The ELISA process involves several steps. First, a sample containing the target molecule is added to small wells on a specialized plate. The target molecule adheres to the surface of the well due to specific interactions. Next, a primary antibody that specifically binds to the target molecule is added to the wells. This antibody is usually linked to an enzyme. After a period of incubation to allow antibody-target molecule binding, the plate is washed to remove any unbound molecules. Then, a substrate that reacts with the enzyme linked to the primary antibody is added. The enzyme catalyzes a reaction that produces a detectable signal, usually a color change. The intensity of the signal is proportional to the concentration of the target molecule in the original sample. The signal is then measured using a spectrophotometer or a similar instrument, allowing for the quantification of the target molecule.
ELISA is widely used in various fields, including clinical diagnostics, research, and pharmaceutical development. Its high sensitivity and specificity make it a valuable tool for diagnosing infectious diseases, detecting allergens, monitoring hormone levels, and measuring antibody titers, among many other applications.
