title: Immunochromatographic direct on sampling filter test for aeroallergens.
abstract: An immunochromatographic method for qualitative and quantitative determination of aeroallergens direct on sampling (ADOS) filters has been developed. In this method, a porous polytetrafluoroethylene filter carrying adsorbed allergens is fixed by double-coated adhesive tape to a supporting filter paper matrix. Following addition of antibodies specific for the relevant allergens and washing and staining reagents via a reagent applicator an immunochromatogram is developed resulting in a 5-10 mm wide area of the sample filter covered with blue-violet-stained spots appearing on a faintly pink or white background. The method takes 30 to 90 min, depending on the nominal porosity (1.2-5 microm) and the defined reaction area (5-10 mm) of the sample filter. Application experiments with birch and grass pollen, soluble Bet v 1, Phl p 5 and mould allergens as well as cat allergen carried by airborne dust revealed a limit of detection of a few picograms of allergen as stained spots. The specificity of the new method to evaluate the type of allergen is a function of the selected antibodies. The concentrations of the allergen in an air sample are related to the number and intensity of stained spots.
mesh_terms: D000485:Allergens / Q000032:analysis* / Q000276:immunology; D000818:Animals; D000906:Antibodies / Q000276:immunology; D029662:Betula; D002415:Cats; D002845:Chromatography / Q000379:methods*; D007118:Immunoassay / Q000379:methods*; D008851:Micropore Filters; D031784:Phleum; D011058:Pollen / Q000276:immunology; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene; D016062:Porosity
chemical_list: D000485:Allergens; D000906:Antibodies; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene