What type of sample would be analyzed using ELISA?

ELISA, which stands for Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, is a widely used laboratory technique for detecting and quantifying proteins, hormones, antibodies, and antigens in a sample. Blood samples are particularly well-suited for ELISA applications because they can provide a range of analytes, such as antibodies for infectious agents, cytokines, or other biomolecules of interest.

In the context of diagnostic testing, blood samples are commonly analyzed using this method due to their ability to reflect systemic conditions and immune responses. The use of serum or plasma from blood allows for a concentrated source of biomarkers, making ELISA an effective tool for both clinical and research purposes.

While other sample types like tissue, urine, and saliva can also be analyzed using ELISA, they are typically less common in routine testing compared to blood samples. The characteristics of blood, such as the presence of soluble proteins and the ease of collection, contribute to its predominant use in ELISA assays. Furthermore, the availability of blood-derived samples in various clinical settings bolsters their role in a broad array of diagnostic evaluations.