What is ELISA?

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is a plate-based assay technique used to detect and quantify substances like peptides, proteins, antibodies, and hormones. In an ELISA, an antigen must be immobilized to a solid surface (either non-specifically or specifically) and then complexed with an antibody that is linked to an enzyme. Detection is accomplished by assessing the conjugated enzyme activity via incubation with a substrate to produce a measureable product. ELISAs are commonly used in research, diagnostics, and quality control to detect the presence of an antigen or antibody in a sample.