RADIOIMMUNOASSAYS Meaning and
Definition
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Radioimmunoassays (RIA) refer to laboratory techniques used for the quantitative analysis of substances in biological samples, utilizing the principles of immunology and radioactive tracers. This method relies on the specific binding ability of antibodies to antigens.
In a typical radioimmunoassay, a known amount of radioactively labeled antigen is added to the sample being tested. This labeled antigen competes with the unlabeled antigen in the sample for binding sites on a specific antibody. The lower the concentration of the unlabeled antigen, the more labeled antigen will bind to the antibody. By measuring the radioactivity associated with the bound antigen, the concentration of the unlabeled antigen in the sample can be determined.
The radioisotope used in radioimmunoassays emits a specific type of radiation (e.g., gamma or beta radiation), which can be easily detected by a scintillation counter or other radiation detection equipment. The number of radioactive emissions is directly proportional to the amount of labeled antigen bound to the antibody.
Radioimmunoassays find wide applications in various fields, including clinical diagnostics, biomedical research, pharmacology, and toxicology. They are highly sensitive and provide quantitative measurements of low concentrations of antigens, hormones, drugs, and other analytes in biological fluids.
With their ability to detect minute quantities with high specificity, radioimmunoassays have revolutionized medical diagnostics and paved the way for advancements in understanding diseases, monitoring therapeutic interventions, and assessing overall health conditions. However, the use of radioactive isotopes in this technique requires appropriate safety precautions to minimize potential radiation exposure.
Common Misspellings for RADIOIMMUNOASSAYS
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Etymology of RADIOIMMUNOASSAYS
The word "radioimmunoassays" is derived from three main components: radio-, immuno-, and assays.
1. Radio-: The prefix "radio-" is derived from the Latin word "radius", meaning "ray" or "beam". It is used to denote radiation or radioactivity. In the context of "radioimmunoassays", it refers to the use of radioactive substances.
2. Immuno-: The prefix "immuno-" comes from the Latin word "immunis", meaning "free" or "exempt". It relates to the field of immunology, which involves the study of the immune system and its response to foreign substances or antigens. In "radioimmunoassays", it represents the use of immune reactions.
3. Assays: The term "assays" is derived from the Old French word "essayer", meaning "to try" or "to test".
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