Immunofluorescence Assay Technique

Fluorescence is the property of certain molecules to absorb light at a longer wavelength and emit light at a shorter wavelength when it is illuminated by light of a different wavelength.

Immunofluorescence is a technique used to visualize specific proteins or antigens in tissue sections by binding a non-specific antibody chemically conjugated with a fluorescent dye.

The emitted light in fluorescence can be viewed with a normal light microscope.

Immunofluorescence can be used for the detection of antigens directed against antibodies already known to be present in a given tissue section or cell preparation.

Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) is a fluorescent dye that makes antibodies glow red microscopically under ultraviolet light.

Immunofluorescence can be used to stain cell membrane molecules or tissue sections.

Direct immunofluorescence is a double-layer technique.

In indirect immunofluorescence, a fluorochrome-conjugated anti-immunoglobulin serum is applied directly to the tissue substrate.

Indirect immunofluorescence is used to detect the presence of autoantibodies in a patient's serum.

Fluorescein is used to conjugate the antibody in indirect immunofluorescence.

Direct immunofluorescence is used to detect the distribution of a thyroid autoantigen.

In direct immunofluorescence, the site where the antibody attaches will show red fluorescence.

The fluorescence is brighter in the direct test than in the indirect test.

The primary antibody needs to be conjugated with a fluorochrome in the indirect immunofluorescence technique.

Immunofluorescence is only used for identifying bacterial species.

Autoimmune diseases are characterized by antibodies directed against non-self-antigens.

Fixation is used to revive the cell's functions.

Immunofluorescence is not suitable for detecting autoantibodies.