Principle and uses of gel electrophoresis
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) plays a crucial role in the detection and management of AIDS, utilizing biotechnological advancements to identify HIV, the virus responsible for the disease. ELISA is a highly sensitive and specific test that detects the presence of antibodies or antigens reRead more
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) plays a crucial role in the detection and management of AIDS, utilizing biotechnological advancements to identify HIV, the virus responsible for the disease. ELISA is a highly sensitive and specific test that detects the presence of antibodies or antigens related to HIV in a patient’s blood sample.
In the context of AIDS, ELISA is primarily used for initial screening. The procedure involves coating a microplate with HIV antigens, then adding the patient’s serum. If HIV antibodies are present, they bind to the antigens. A secondary antibody linked to an enzyme is added, which binds to the HIV antibodies. Upon adding a substrate, the enzyme catalyzes a color change, indicating a positive result.
Biotechnology enhances ELISA’s efficacy by enabling the production of high-quality, recombinant antigens and monoclonal antibodies, improving test accuracy and reliability. Moreover, advancements in biotechnology facilitate the development of more robust, rapid, and cost-effective ELISA kits, essential for widespread screening and early detection.
Early diagnosis through ELISA allows for timely intervention, reducing viral transmission and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, ELISA is vital in blood screening to prevent HIV-contaminated blood transfusions, underscoring its significance in public health and biotechnology’s role in combating AIDS.
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Principle of Gel Electrophoresis: Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge. The principle behind this method is that molecules move through a gel when an electric current is applied. The gel, usually made of agarose or polyacrylamide, aRead more
Principle of Gel Electrophoresis: Gel electrophoresis is a technique used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge. The principle behind this method is that molecules move through a gel when an electric current is applied. The gel, usually made of agarose or polyacrylamide, acts like a sieve. Smaller molecules move faster and travel farther through the gel, while larger molecules move more slowly. The gel is placed in a buffer solution that helps conduct the electric current. When the current is applied, negatively charged molecules, like DNA, move towards the positive electrode.
Uses of Gel Electrophoresis:
In summary, gel electrophoresis is a versatile tool that helps scientists separate and analyze molecules, providing crucial insights in various fields of biology and medicine.
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