Related Experiment Videos
Tear immunoglobulins measured by ELISA
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|April 1, 1986
Summary
A new ELISA assay accurately measures tear immunoglobulin (IgG, IgA, IgM) using only 2 microliters of fluid. Tear immunoglobulin levels suggest local synthesis, not serum correlation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Ophthalmology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tear immunoglobulins play a role in ocular surface immunity.
- Quantifying tear immunoglobulins is challenging due to small sample volumes.
- Previous methods lacked sensitivity for detecting low concentrations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a highly sensitive ELISA for quantifying tear IgG, IgA, and IgM.
- To determine normal tear immunoglobulin concentrations in healthy subjects.
- To investigate the correlation between tear and serum immunoglobulin levels.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was employed.
- Tears were collected from 20 normal subjects.
- IgG, IgA, and IgM concentrations were measured with high sensitivity (1 ng/ml).
Main Results:
- The ELISA required only 2 microliters of tear fluid.
- IgM, IgA, and IgG were detected in all samples.
- Mean tear concentrations: IgM (5.6 µg/ml), IgA (186 µg/ml), IgG (6.7 µg/ml).
- No correlation was observed between tear and serum immunoglobulin levels.
Conclusions:
- The developed ELISA is a sensitive and reliable method for analyzing tear immunoglobulins.
- Tear immunoglobulin levels are primarily due to local synthesis.
- This assay can be adapted for detecting various tear antigens and antibodies.