Discuss the similarities and differences between immunodiffusion and immunochromatographic assays
What will be an ideal response?
Both assays rely on the diffusion of antibody molecules, and both involve the formation of antibody-antigen complexes.
The immunodiffusion assay is a type of precipitation assay in which the presence of antigen-antibody complexes results in the development of a visible line of precipitate where the complexes come out of solution. It can be used to verify the presence of antibodies reactive to specific antigens. The variation known as radial immunodiffusion can be used to measure antibody concentrations. The procedure requires a high degree of skill and is time-consuming.
The immunochromatographic assay detects the presence of antigens rather than antigen-specific antibodies. Antibodies labeled with colored metals form complexes with the antigen, but the complexes do not precipitate out of solution. The soluble, diffusing complexes are trapped and concentrated by anti-antibodies, producing a visible line of color. These antibody assays are very rapid and can be performed by persons with basic clinical skills.
Bloom's Taxonomy: Application
Section: Serologic Tests That Use Antigens and Corresponding Antibodies
Learning Outcome: 17.21
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