Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 23, 2026

Author Spotlight: Studying Host-Virus Interactions with Pseudotyped Viruses
Published on: November 21, 2023
Pseudotype Neutralization Assays: From Laboratory Bench to Data Analysis
Francesca Ferrara1, Nigel Temperton2
1Viral Pseudotype Unit, Medway School of Pharmacy, The Universities of Greenwich and Kent at Medway, Chatham ME4 4TB, UK. ff63@kentforlife.net.
Abstract:
Pseudotype neutralization assays are powerful tools to study functional antibody responses against viruses in low biosafety laboratories. However, protocols described in the literature differ widely with respect to material, reagents, and methods used to perform these assays and to analyse the raw data generated. This could result in discrepancies between the results of different laboratories even when the same pseudotypes and the same samples are analysed. Here, we describe, in detail, an experimental protocol to perform pseudotype neutralization assays using lentiviral pseudotypes bearing influenza haemagglutinin and expressing firefly luciferase. We also present the steps necessary to analyse the data and calculate the half maximal inhibitory concentration of the sera analysed. This protocol will provide support for the validation and the standardization of the pseudotype neutralization assay for influenza virus serology. Additionally, it will provide a starting point for the development of pseudotype neutralization assays using pseudotypes bearing other viral envelope proteins.
Related Concept Videos
Analysis of Population Pharmacokinetic Data
Acids, Bases and Neutralization Reactions
Acids, Bases and Neutralization Reactions
Overview of Microsoft Excel as a Data Analysis Tool
Statistical Software for Data Analysis and Clinical Trials
Performing a Simple Data Analysis using MS-Excel Function
SUM: This function calculates the total sum of a range of values. It's the foundation for aggregating data, essential for determining overall trends and totals in datasets.
AVERAGE: It computes the mean value of a given set of numbers, providing a quick insight into the central...

