Viral hemagglutination inhibition assay

Definition

A viral hemagglutination inhibition assay is a laboratory technique used to measure the ability of antibodies to prevent viruses from agglutinating red blood cells. It is commonly employed to quantify immune responses and detect specific viral infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. It assesses the presence and concentration of antibodies against viruses that cause hemagglutination.
2. The assay involves mixing the virus with serial dilutions of serum before adding red blood cells.
3. A positive result indicates that antibodies in the serum have inhibited hemagglutination, preventing clumping of red blood cells.
4. It is frequently used in the diagnosis of influenza, measles, mumps, and rubella.
5. Controls must be included to ensure the specificity and accuracy of the assay results.

Related terms

Hemagglutination:

The process by which viruses cause red blood cells to clump together.

Antibody Titer:

The concentration of specific antibodies present in serum as determined by an assay.

Neutralization Assay:

A test used to determine the ability of antibodies to neutralize pathogens or their toxins.