The Many Benefits Of Using ELISA Kits

By Harriet Porter


Medical science is advancing in leaps and bounds. New treatments, drugs and procedures are introduced regularly. One of the main areas of studies remains the development of new tests that will help physicians to diagnose diseases quicker. The earlier a condition is diagnosed the bigger the chance that it can be treated successfully. ELISA kits have done much to make the diagnosis of several conditions both easier and quicker.

Also known as enzyme immunoassay, or EIA for short, this laboratory technique is used to measure the concentration of antibodies or antigens in a solution, normally a blood sample. The ability to determine these concentrations is extremely important in the diagnostic process. Among the main advantages of this technique, when compared with others, is that it is very easy to carry out and a large number of tests can be processed simultaneously.

The importance of being able to detect the presence of antibodies or antigens cannot be overemphasized. Antibodies are proteins that the body produces when a harmful substance in the body is detected. These harmful substances are called antigens. By being able to identify the type of antibody produced by the body, physicians can accurately determine the type of harmful antigens that triggered the production of the antibodies.

Patients need not fear this simple test. It only entails the drawing of a small blood sample. This sample is then added to specific antigens in a petri dish. If there is a reaction between the blood sample and the antigen, then the presence of antibodies is confirmed. In fact, the antibodies will combine with the antigens. By adding enzymes it is possible to determine the amount of the antibodies in the sample.

A lot of information can be gained from an EIA test. This is true even when the simplest form of the test is used. Yet it is possible to administer more complex tests, such as the direct EIA test. In this case a multiwall coats the antigen. This makes it difficult for the antibody to recognize the antigen. Recognition only takes place when very specific enzymes are introduced.

Then there is the indirect EIA test. In this case the antigen is covered with a polystyrene plate that can only be detected in two distinct stages. The main advantage of this format of the test is that it offers increased sensitivity. Both primary and secondary antibodies can be identified. This entails cost savings and it may even eliminate the need for further tests.

The EIA sandwich test is considered to be suitable for complex samples, especially because the sample does not need to be purified prior to measurement. In this test antibodies are made up in pairs and compared with each other. The test is often done when both direct and indirect detection methods are required. It is an extremely accurate test and is done when serious diseases are suspected.

Nobody will deny the fact that one of the most important components of medical treatment is the ability to diagnose diseases. The earlier it is done the easier it is to treat and the better the prognosis will be. EIA offers hope to patients and it enables physicians to offer better chances.




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