What is Fluoroimmunoassay?
Fluoroimmunoassay is a sensitive and specific technique used in
biotechnology to detect and quantify biological molecules. It employs
fluorescent compounds as labels which emit light upon excitation, allowing for the precise detection of
antigens or
antibodies.
How Does Fluoroimmunoassay Work?
The principle of fluoroimmunoassay involves the binding of a
fluorophore-conjugated antibody to its target antigen. Upon binding, the fluorophore is excited by a specific wavelength of light, and it emits light at a different wavelength. This emitted light is measured using specialized equipment, providing information about the presence and concentration of the target molecule.
Applications in Biotechnology
Advantages and Limitations
The primary advantage of fluoroimmunoassay is its high sensitivity and specificity. It can detect very low concentrations of analytes, making it suitable for early disease detection. Additionally, it provides faster results compared to other assays. However, the technique requires specialized equipment and expertise, and there is a risk of
interference from other fluorescent substances in the sample.
Potential Risks and Misuse
While fluoroimmunoassay is a powerful tool, it is not without risks. The use of fluorescent labels can lead to
false positives if not carefully controlled, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. Furthermore, the technique's complexity requires rigorous
quality control and proficiency testing to ensure accuracy. There is also the possibility of its misuse in
bioterrorism, where it could be used to detect and develop harmful biological agents.
Future Prospects
