What is the purpose of the ELISA test?

The ELISA test, which stands for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, is specifically designed to detect and quantify proteins or antibodies present in a sample. This test utilizes antigen-antibody interactions and is widely employed in various fields, such as clinical diagnostics, research, and quality control in pharmaceuticals.

When conducting an ELISA, the sample being tested (which could contain a specific protein or antibody) is applied to a solid surface, usually a plate coated with specific antigens or antibodies. If the target protein or antibody is present, it binds to the coating, and subsequent steps involve adding enzyme-linked antibodies that can further bind to the target. The presence of the target is then detected through a color change or signal produced by a substrate that reacts with the enzyme, allowing for both detection and quantification.

This test's sensitivity and specificity make it an invaluable tool for measuring concentrations of biomolecules, diagnosing diseases, and monitoring immune responses, particularly in cases of infections or autoimmune disorders. In contrast, the other options involve different methodologies geared toward amplification, isolation, or sequencing of nucleic acids, which are not the focus of the ELISA technique.