Laboratory Analysis of Immune Response

Flashcards for Chapter 20 - Laboratory Analysis of Immune Response

Monoclonal and Polyclonal Antibodies

Administration of antiserum that contains preformed antibodies providing immediate protection against infection. Limitations include allergic reactions and quick degradation.

Hybridomas

Long-lived cells created by fusing plasma cells and myeloma cells, used for producing monoclonal antibodies.

Serology

Determination of the presence of specific antigens or antibodies in blood serum, used to monitor infection spread and diagnose diseases.

Precipitation Tests

Simple serological tests where antigens and antibodies form large complexes called precipitates (immune complexes).

Optimal Proportions in Precipitation Reactions

The specific ratio of antigen and antibody concentrations that result in maximal precipitation.

Immunodiffusion

A type of precipitation reaction where antigens and antibodies diffuse through a gel to form visible precipitation lines.

Neutralization Tests

Tests that assess the ability of antibodies to neutralize the effects of a virus, such as its ability to kill cells in culture.

Viral Neutralization

The process where antibodies prevent a virus from infecting cells.

Immunoblots (Western Blots)

Technique used to detect antibodies against multiple antigens by confirming the presence of specific proteins.

ELISA (EIA)

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, using an enzyme label to detect the presence of serum antibodies or antigens, producing a colored product in a positive test. Sensitive and easy to automate.