MLAB 1335 ELISA Test for HIV

MLAB 1335 Immunology/Serology

Laboratory 13 HIV Testing

The ELISA test is a screening test for HIV antibodies. It is the first test performed and, if positive, requires a confirmatory test. The Western Blot is the confirmatory test for the disease. If indeterminate results are obtained on a Western Blot the recommended procedure now is to perform an HIV nucleic acid test (NAT).

In class an ELISA test was performed

Antigen is coated onto the membrane. In a real ELISA procedure this would be followed by a washing procedure.
Patient serum is added and incubated with the antigen. Again, in real life a wash would be performed to remove the patient serum.
A tagged anti-antibody is added which will bind to HIV antibodies if present. Again, in real life a wash would be performed.
A substrate is added which will react with the tagged antibody, if present.

Video of last step with color change. - May take a while to download.

Results of the procedure.

Last Update: September 20, 2010