PAGE, PCR, & ELISA Review

Front

What is an antigen?

Back

A molecule on a pathogen to which an antibody can bind.

Front

What is the purpose of adding a colorless substrate in an ELISA lab?

Back

To cause a color change, indicating the presence of the primary antibody.

Front

Describe the structure of an antibody.

Back

Antibody structure is commonly Y-shaped.

Front

Why is it necessary to wash samples repeatedly in an ELISA test?

Back

To wash away all bound and unbound antibodies from the wells.

Front

What does the secondary antibody recognize in an ELISA test?

Back

The antigen-antibody complex.

Front

What is the role of antibodies in the immune response?

Back

Antibodies bind to specific antigens to neutralize pathogens or mark them for destruction.

Front

Define PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction).

Back

A technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, making millions of copies of a particular DNA segment.

Front

What is the significance of PAGE (Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis)?

Back

PAGE is used to separate proteins or nucleic acids based on their size and charge.

Front

What is the function of the primary antibody in an ELISA test?

Back

The primary antibody binds specifically to the target antigen.

Front

Explain the term 'antigen-antibody complex'.

Back

It is the structure formed when an antibody binds to its specific antigen.