Immunological detection methods play a central role in modern biomedical research and diagnostics. They enable the detection, quantification, and functional analysis of specific molecules — particularly proteins – in a wide range of samples. Over the past decades, these techniques have evolved and now offer a broad array of approaches that can be applied to address specific research questions.
Protein-based detection methods
Protein-based detection methods
Protein-based detection methods utilize the specific binding of antibodies to target proteins in order to detect them qualitatively and/or quantitatively. These methods are essential for analyzing protein expression, molecular changes, interactions, and functional properties of proteins. Techniques such as Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Western Blot (WB), or Immunoprecipitation (IP) are standard tools in biomedical research and diagnostics. They differ in sample preparation, sensitivity, throughput, and detection principles but overall enable highly detailed analyses of specific target structures.
- Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- Western Blot (WB)
- Immunoprecipitation (IP)
- Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
- Functional studies
Cell-based detection methods
Cell-based detection methods
Cell-based immunological techniques are used to localize antigens directly within cells or tissues. They combine immunological principles with morphological and microscopic techniques, allowing insights into the cellular or subcellular distribution of proteins. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunocytochemistry (ICC) use enzyme or fluorescence labeling to visualize target antigens, while immunofluorescence (IF) offers high-resolution detection across multiple spectral channels. This range is complemented by immunoelectron microscopy (IEM), which even enables ultrastructural detection. These methods are particularly important in pathology, cell biology, and functional analysis.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
- Immunocytochemistry (ICC)
- Immunofluorescence (IF)
- Immunoelectron Microscopy (IEM)
Cytometric Techniques
Cytometric Techniques
Cytometric techniques enable high-speed, multiparametric analysis of individual cells. At the core is flow cytometry, which allows for the phenotyping and functional characterization of cell populations based on specific surface or intracellular markers. Modern advancements such as mass cytometry (CyTOF) have significantly expanded the methodological spectrum, enabling the simultaneous analysis of over 40 markers per cell. Cytometric techniques are indispensable tools in immunophenotyping, cancer diagnostics, vaccine development, and basic immunological research.
- Flow Cytometry
- Mass Cytometry (CyTOF)