Enzyme Linked Immunoassay (ELISA) is a laboratory technique and instrument used for detecting and quantifying biomolecules, especially proteins, antibodies, antigens, and other biomolecules. It is a biochemical analysis method widely used in fields such as biological research, clinical diagnosis, biopharmaceuticals, and environmental monitoring.
The basic principle of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) reader is to detect target molecules by binding enzymes to antibodies or antigens and utilizing their catalytic activity. ELISA typically includes the following key steps:
Adsorption: Adsorption of antigens or antibodies onto microporous plates or other fixed surfaces.
Washing: Remove unbound substances.
Detection: Add the sample to be tested, and if the sample contains target molecules, they will bind to fixed antibodies or antigens.
Reaction: Enzyme labeled secondary antibodies or substrates are added, which combine with the bound target molecule to form a complex.
Measurement: The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) measures the conversion rate of the substrate, which is proportional to the concentration of the target molecule. The results are usually output in the form of absorbance or fluorescence signals, which can quantify the concentration of the target molecule.
Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyzers are typically equipped with components such as light sources, optical systems, control systems, sample racks, and computer interfaces to support ELISA experiments. They allow laboratory researchers or clinical laboratory professionals to perform highly sensitive and selective biomolecular detection, which is crucial for applications such as disease diagnosis, drug screening, protein research, and environmental monitoring.
In summary, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a laboratory instrument used for detecting and quantifying biomolecules. Based on ELISA technology, it is widely used in various fields of biology and medical research. It plays an important role in scientific research and clinical diagnosis.