Fluorescent Antibody Technique (FAT) is a laboratory procedure used in medical diagnostics and research to detect and identify specific antigens or antibodies within biological samples. It involves tagging antibodies with a fluorescent dye, allowing their visualization under a microscope.
During the technique, a specific antigen or antibody is targeted by a primary antibody that has been conjugated with a fluorescent dye. This primary antibody binds specifically to the desired antigen or antibody present in the sample. After washing away any unbound antibodies, the sample is examined under a fluorescence microscope or other specialized instrument that emits light at the same wavelength as the dye used.
If the antigen or antibody of interest is present in the sample, it will emit a characteristic fluorescent signal under the microscope, indicating its presence. The fluorescence signal can be observed visually or quantified using imaging software.
The Fluorescent Antibody Technique is commonly used to diagnose various infectious diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It is a fundamental tool in immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, and immunofluorescence, providing valuable insights into the localization and distribution of specific antigens within cells, tissues, or body fluids.
The technique is highly sensitive, specific, and widely used in immunology research, medical diagnostics, and pathology. It allows for rapid and accurate identification of target molecules, aiding in the diagnosis of diseases, monitoring therapeutic interventions, and studying the immune response to infections.
