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The diagram shows a well in which is placed a particular human antibody in the central well - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 25 - 2003 - Paper 1
Question 25
The diagram shows a well in which is placed a particular human antibody in the central well. The other wells (PB1, PB2, PB3, PB4) are arranged around this central we... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows a well in which is placed a particular human antibody in the central well - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 25 - 2003 - Paper 1
Step 1
1. Identify the role of the particular human antibody in the experiment.
Answer
The particular human antibody placed in the central well serves as a capture agent that is designed to bind specifically to a corresponding antigen. This antibody facilitates the detection of the antigen when it is introduced into the wells.
Step 2
2. Describe the expected interaction when a specific antigen is introduced to the system.
Answer
When a specific antigen is introduced into the system, it will interact with the particular human antibody in the central well. This interaction causes formation of an antigen-antibody complex. Such binding is essential for facilitating subsequent detection methods in this assay format.
Step 3
3. Explain how the results can be analyzed to determine the presence of antibodies.
Answer
The results can be analyzed using techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). After binding occurs, secondary antibodies conjugated with enzymes can be added. The substrate specific to the enzyme is then introduced, resulting in a color change that correlates with the amount of bound antibody, indicating the presence of the antibodies.
Step 4
4. Discuss the significance of this type of assay in medical diagnostics.
Answer
This type of assay is significant in medical diagnostics as it allows for the sensitive detection of specific antibodies in a patient's sample. It can be used for diagnosing various diseases, monitoring immune responses, and screening blood for pathogens, thereby playing a crucial role in disease management and public health.