Counterimmunoelectrophoresis

Counterimmunoelectrophoresis (pronunciation: koun·ter·im·mu·no·e·lec·tro·pho·re·sis) is a laboratory technique used in immunology and serology to detect and measure the presence of specific antibodies or antigens in a patient's serum. The term is derived from the Greek words counter (against), immuno (immune), and electrophoresis (movement of charged particles in a fluid under the influence of an electric field).

Procedure

In counterimmunoelectrophoresis, antigens and antibodies are placed in separate wells cut in an agar gel. An electric current is then applied, causing the antigens and antibodies to migrate towards each other. If the patient's serum contains antibodies against the specific antigen, they will bind together, forming a visible line of precipitation.

Applications

Counterimmunoelectrophoresis is often used in diagnostic microbiology to identify bacterial or viral infections. It can also be used to detect specific antibodies in patients with autoimmune diseases, or to monitor the immune response in patients receiving vaccines.

Advantages and Limitations

The main advantage of counterimmunoelectrophoresis is its speed and sensitivity. Results can often be obtained within a few hours, and the technique can detect even small amounts of antibodies or antigens. However, it requires specialized equipment and trained personnel, and it may not be suitable for all types of antigens or antibodies.

Related Terms

• Immunoelectrophoresis
• Immunodiffusion
• Immunoprecipitation
• Agglutination
• Complement fixation test

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Counterimmunoelectrophoresis
• Wikipedia's article - Counterimmunoelectrophoresis

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