IMMUNODIFFUSION Meaning and
Definition
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Immunodiffusion is a laboratory technique used to detect and quantify specific antigens or antibodies in a sample. It involves the diffusion of antigens and antibodies through a gel medium, resulting in the formation of visible precipitin lines or rings. These precipitin lines or rings indicate the presence and concentration of the desired antigen or antibody in the sample.
This technique is based on the principle that when an antigen encounters its corresponding antibody, a reaction occurs resulting in the formation of an immune complex. In immunodiffusion, the sample containing the antigen is placed in a well or trough created in a gel medium, commonly agarose or agar. An antibody, usually obtained from an animal immunized against the antigen, is added to a well or trough adjacent to the antigen well. As the antigen and antibody diffuse through the gel, they encounter each other, leading to the formation of a precipitin line or ring.
The size and shape of the precipitin line or ring depend on the concentration of both the antigen and antibody. By comparing the size and intensity of the precipitin pattern to a standard or control, the concentration of the target antigen or antibody in the sample can be estimated.
Immunodiffusion is a versatile technique used in various fields, including clinical diagnostics, immunology research, and the study of infectious diseases. It provides a semi-quantitative or qualitative analysis of specific antigens or antibodies, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases, as well as the detection of immune responses.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNODIFFUSION
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Etymology of IMMUNODIFFUSION
The word "Immunodiffusion" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
The term "immuno-" comes from the Latin word "immunis", which means "exempt" or "free from". In the context of immunology, it refers to the immune system's ability to recognize and defend against foreign substances or pathogens.
The second component, "diffusion", is derived from the Latin word "diffusio", meaning "a pouring forth" or "spreading". It is also influenced by the Latin verb "diffundere", which means "to pour out" or "to spread". The concept of diffusion relates to the spreading or movement of substances from an area of high concentration to an area of lower concentration.
