What is neutralization assays?

Neutralization assays are in vitro tests that measure the ability of antibodies to neutralize the biological activity of a virus or other pathogen. They are commonly used to assess vaccine efficacy, monitor immune responses, and characterize monoclonal antibodies. In these assays, antibodies are mixed with the virus, and then the mixture is added to cells susceptible to infection. If the antibodies neutralize the virus, the cells will not become infected, or the level of infection will be reduced. The degree of neutralization is typically quantified by measuring viral replication or cytopathic effects.