Notes from NEET topper
Tools for Diagnosis: ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay):
The Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, commonly known as ELISA, is a fundamental diagnostic tool used in the detection of various diseases, including HIV. ELISA is highly sensitive and specific and plays a crucial role in HIV diagnosis. When an individual is exposed to HIV, their immune system produces antibodies against the virus. ELISA tests for the presence of these antibodies in a patient’s blood sample. The test involves coating a microplate with HIV antigens and adding the patient’s serum. If antibodies to HIV are present, they will bind to the antigens on the plate. This binding is then detected using enzyme-labeled antibodies and a colorimetric reaction. ELISA results are usually considered preliminary, and positive results require confirmation with more specific tests like Western blotting or PCR. ELISA is not only used for HIV diagnosis but also for the detection of antibodies or antigens in various other infectious and autoimmune diseases, making it a versatile tool in clinical diagnostics.
