Detection of antibodies specific for herpes simplex virus in human sera by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
Abstract:
An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for the detection in human sera of antibody to herpes simplex virus antigens. Development and standardization of the assay suggested that antigenic purity, temperature of reactions, concentration of enzyme-conjugated antiglobulin, and concentrations of test sera are all critical parameters of a successful ELISA procedure. When ELISA titers of 30 human sera were compared to micro-complement fixation titers of the same sera, a significant degree of correlation was observed, but quantitatively ELISA was found to be up to 200 times more sensitive. The sensitivity of the assay and its adaptability to automation should provide an additional method for study or diagnosis of infection with herpes simplex virus.
Related Concept Videos
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
There are many different types of ELISAs, but they all involve an antibody molecule whose constant region binds an enzyme, leaving the variable region free to bind its specific antigen. Enzyme-substrate reaction allows the antigen to be visualized or quantified.
Herpes
Genital Herpes


