IMMUNOASSAY Meaning and
Definition
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An immunoassay, defined in the field of medical science and clinical diagnostics, is a laboratory technique used to measure the presence or concentration of a specific molecule (analyte) in a given biological sample. It relies on the principle of antigen-antibody interactions and takes advantage of the immune system's ability to produce highly specific and sensitive antibodies.
An immunoassay typically involves several steps. First, a known amount of the analyte or a similar molecule is immobilized onto a solid support, such as a microplate or a bead. Then, the sample containing the analyte is added, allowing the specific antibodies to bind to the analyte, forming an antibody-antigen complex. In the subsequent stages, the unbound components are washed away, and a detection system is used to quantify the amount of antibody-antigen complex formed. This detection system may involve various techniques, including enzymatic reactions, fluorescence, or radioactivity, depending on the specific immunoassay.
The immunoassay technique offers remarkable specificity, sensitivity, and versatility and has a wide range of biomedical applications. It can be utilized for diagnosing infections, monitoring hormone levels, detecting drugs or toxins in the blood, and even detecting the presence of certain diseases, such as cancer or autoimmune disorders. Immunoassays play a vital role in clinical laboratories, providing accurate and sensitive results essential for patient care and research.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNOASSAY
Etymology of IMMUNOASSAY
The word "immunoassay" has a relatively straightforward etymology. It is derived from two key components:
1. "Immuno-" : This prefix originates from the Latin word "immunis", meaning "exempt" or "free". It became increasingly associated with immunity in scientific terminology, referring to the body's protection against diseases.
2. "-Assay" : This suffix comes from the Old French word "assaier", meaning "to try" or "to test". It entered the English language in the 14th century, referring to the act of evaluating or examining an object or substance to determine its quality or composition.
Combining these elements, "immunoassay" literally means a test or assay that involves the evaluation of immunity-related substances or processes.
Similar spelling words for IMMUNOASSAY
