Invitrogen™ Human Interferon alpha (Cell culture) ELISA Kit 

Description

The Human Interferon alpha A, 2, A/D, D, K and 4b (Hu IFNαA, IFNα2, IFNαA/D, IFNαD, IFNαK and IFNα4b ) ELISA quantitates Hu IFNα in human cell culture medium. The assay will exclusively recognize both natural and recombinant Hu IFNα. Principle of the method The Human IFNα solid-phase sandwich ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) is designed to measure the amount of the target bound between a matched antibody pair. A target-specific antibody has been pre-coated in the wells of the supplied microplate. Samples, standards, or controls are then added into these wells and bind to the immobilized (capture) antibody. The sandwich is formed by the addition of the second (detector) antibody, binding to the target on a different epitope from the capture antibody. A conjugated enzyme has been incorporated into the assay. After incubation and washing steps to rid the microplate of unbound substances, a substrate solution is added that reacts with the enzyme-antibody-target complex to produce measurable signal. The intensity of this signal is directly proportional to the concentration of target present in the original specimen. Rigorous validation Each manufactured lot of this ELISA kit is quality tested for criteria such as sensitivity, specificity, precision, and lot-to-lot consistency. See manual for more information on validation.

IFN alpha (Interferon alpha) is a Type I interferon belonging to a family of structurally related, species-specific proteins exclusive to vertebrates. The interaction of IFN-alpha with its receptor component result in the activation of a number of signaling pathways which are mainly involved in innate immune response against viral infection. In humans, the gene for IFN alpha is located on on chromosome 9. The type I interferons consist of 14 different alpha isoforms (subtypes with slightly different specificities), and single beta, omega, epsilon and kappa isoforms. Homologous molecules are found in many species, including rats and mice (and most mammals), and have been identified in birds, reptiles and fish species. IFN alpha is produced primarily by plasmacytoid dendritic cells, is a potent component of the anti-viral innate immune response and modulates adaptive immunity. Diseases associated with the dysfunction of IFN alpha include Hepatitis C and Hepatitis.