Enzymeimmunoassay

Abstract

The bases and principles of the different enzyme immunoassay (EIA) techniques for antigens, haptens and antibodies are described. Substances for which EIAs have been developed and several EIA kits available are listed. The enzymes used as labels, the methods of linking them to haptens, antigens and antibodies, and the methods for separating free and bound labeled materials are also described. EIA for cyclic AMP which we have developed is shown as a practical example. EIA methods overcome some of the limitations of radioimmunoassay and because of their great advantages of sensitivity, cost and convenience, those methods should become a normal part of the work of the clinical laboratory.