Monoclonal Antibodies in Diagnostic Tests Flashcards

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What is a monoclonal antibody?

A monoclonal antibody is an identical lab-made protein that binds to one specific antigen.

Why are monoclonal antibodies useful in diagnostic tests?

They are very specific. They only bind to one type of antigen in the sample.

In a monoclonal antibody test, what is meant by the antigen?

The antigen is the substance being tested for. It is what the monoclonal antibody is designed to bind to.

What do monoclonal antibodies detect in a pregnancy test?

They detect the pregnancy hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin) in a woman's urine.

How does a pregnancy test stick show a positive result?

If hCG is in the urine, it binds to monoclonal antibodies on the strip and a coloured line appears.

Why is there a control line on many monoclonal antibody test strips?

The control line shows that the liquid has flowed correctly and that the antibodies in the test are working.

How can monoclonal antibodies be used to test for a disease-causing pathogen in blood?

Monoclonal antibodies that match the pathogen's antigens are mixed with the blood. If the pathogen is present, the antibodies bind and a marker shows a colour change.

What can be attached to monoclonal antibodies in diagnostic tests so we can see if they have bound?

A marker such as a coloured dye, a fluorescent dye, or an enzyme that makes a colour can be attached.

Give one medical use of monoclonal antibody diagnostic tests other than pregnancy testing.

They can test blood for levels of hormones, viruses, or other chemicals linked to disease.

What is one main advantage of using monoclonal antibodies in diagnostic tests?

They can detect very small amounts of a substance and give quick, clear results.