A new method for the estimation of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) --enzyme linked counterelectrophoresis assay on a cellulose acetate membrane
Huang, J.Q.
Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi 7(6): 401-404
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0253-3766 PMID: 2426068 Document Number: 245478
A new quantitative assay for serum AFP was developed. The steps of this new method are as follows: Sera to be assayed, standard AFP and peroxidase-labelled anti-AFP antibodies are applied to cellulose acetate membrane strips; insoluble immune complexes are rapidly formed by counterelectrophoresis; wash, the precipitation lines are revealed by an enzyme reaction. The features of the precipitation line are related to the amount of AFP in the sera. The method is rapid, simple, sensitive and specific. It can be done with ordinary laboratory equipment. The determination can be done when the level of AFP is as low as 30-50 ng/ml. The sensitivity of the method greatly exceeds that of the conventional agar counterelectrophoresis and is equal to that of radiorocket electrophoresis method (25 ng/ml). This method is in general agreement with RIA and radiorocket electrophoresis method. Rheumatoid factor does not interfere with this assay.