title: The use of hapten-modified antigens instead of solid-phase-coupled antigens in a RAST-type assay.
abstract: We have developed a modification of the solid-phase immunoassay for the detection of antibodies of specified isotype. This modified assay involves interaction of the antibody in solution with a haptenated antigen, followed by binding of the antigen-antibody complex to an anti-hapten immunoadsorbent. The antibody is subsequently detected with a suitably labelled antiglobulin reagent. The advantages of this test are: (1) The procedure is more convenient, especially in test protocols where multiple antigens are used. Because the antigens are in solution, computer-controlled dispensation of the antigens is possible. (2) The efficiency of antibody binding is increased, presumably because of the higher avidity of the antigen-antibody interaction in homogeneous solution compared to that in a heterogeneous system. Therefore, less antigen per test is required, and a solid phase with a lower capacity can be used.
mesh_terms: D000528:Alternaria / Q000276:immunology; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000941:Antigens / Q000276:immunology*; D006241:Haptens / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D007126:Immunoglobulin Allotypes; D008925:Mites / Q000276:immunology; D011852:Radioallergosorbent Test / Q000379:methods*; D011863:Radioimmunoassay / Q000379:methods*; D014301:Trinitrobenzenes / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D000941:Antigens; D006241:Haptens; D007126:Immunoglobulin Allotypes; D014301:Trinitrobenzenes