Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a significant global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. The virus can cause both acute and chronic liver infections, leading to severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The detection and quantification of HBV antigens are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring the infection. One of the methods used for this purpose is the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), specifically designed to capture HBV antigens using antibodies.
HBV is a DNA virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family. It has a partially double-stranded DNA genome and replicates through an RNA intermediate. The virus primarily infects liver cells (hepatocytes) and can integrate into the host genome, leading to chronic infection. HBV has several antigens, including the surface antigen (HBsAg), core antigen (HBcAg), and e antigen (HBeAg), which are used as markers for infection and immune response.
The AD and AY antigens refer to specific subtypes of the HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). These subtypes are determined by variations in the amino acid sequences of the HBsAg protein. The AD subtype is more prevalent in certain geographical regions, while the AY subtype is found in others. These variations can affect the antigenicity and immunogenicity of the virus, making it essential to detect and differentiate between these subtypes for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Capture ELISA is a widely used technique for detecting and quantifying antigens in various samples, including blood, serum, and plasma. The assay involves capturing the target antigen using a specific antibody immobilized on a solid surface, followed by detection using a secondary antibody conjugated to an enzyme. The enzyme catalyzes a colorimetric reaction, producing a measurable signal proportional to the amount of antigen present.
The AG-1 mouse antibody is a monoclonal antibody specifically designed to capture the AD and AY antigens of HBV in a capture ELISA. Monoclonal antibodies are produced by a single clone of B cells and are highly specific to a particular epitope on the antigen. The AG-1 antibody binds to the AD and AY subtypes of HBsAg with high affinity, ensuring accurate and sensitive detection of these antigens in clinical samples.
The Hepatitis B Virus (AD & AY Antigens) AG-1 for Capture ELISA is used in various applications, including: