Category: I

A technique for identifying molecules present on the surfaces of cells or in tissues using a highly fluorescent substance coupled to a specific antibody. A laboratory procedure using fluorescein- labeled antibodies that aid in detecting antigens and the diagnosis of infectious diseases. A technique for observing the amount and/or distribution of antibody or antigen in…

A technique that combines protein electrophoresis and double immunodiffusion. In this procedure proteins are first separated by gel electrophoresis (usually agarose), then made visible by immunodiffusion of specific antibodies. A distinct elliptical precipitin arc results for each protein detectable by the antisera. A technique used to separate and allow identification of complex proteins. A method…

Technique involving the diffusion of antigen or antibody through a semisolid medium, usually agar or agarose gel, with the result being a precipitin reaction. A laboratory technique used to detect the type and quantity of a substance, such as an abnormal immunoglobulin, for which an antibody is available. A test method in which an antigen…

The inability of the body to produce an immune response.    

A human or animal whose immunologic mechanism is deficient because of an immunodeficiency disorder or other disease or as the result of the administration of immunosuppressive drugs or radiation.  

Having a weakened immune system caused by certain diseases or treatments. Refers to an immune system incapable of fighting disease. Not able to offer resistance to infection. Lacking the normal ability (immune system) to respond to infection or tissue damage. Many factors, ranging from drugs to viral infection (e.g., HIV, AIDS) may affect the immune…

Deliberate stimulation of the host’s immune response. Active immunization involves administration of antigens or immunologic adjuvants. Passive immunization involves administration of immune sera or lymphocytes or their extracts (e.g., transfer factor, immune RNA) or transplantation of immunocompetent cell producing tissue (thymus or bone marrow). A procedure in which a dead or inactive bacteria, virus, or…

The organs, cells, and molecules responsible for the recognition and disposal of foreign (“non-self”) material which enters the body. A precisely ordered system of cells, hormones, and chemicals that regulate susceptibility to, severity of, and recovery from infection and illness. The complex system of cells and proteins that the body uses to protect itself from…

Serum that contains antibodies. It is obtained from an animal that has been immunized either by antigen injection or infection with microorganisms containing the antigen.  

The activity of the immune system against foreign substances (antigens). The development by the body of antibodies specific for a particular disease. Defense reaction of the body whereby an invading substance—an antigen, such as grafted tissue, a transplanted organ, bacteria, virus, or fungus—is recognized as foreign and antibodies specific against the antigen are produced to…