| abstract |
An improved simplified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the diagnosis of viral, fungal, bacterial and parasitic diseases. The diagnostic test is designed for use in non-laboratory settings where the usual equipment and supplies, including running water, may not be available. Collected blood samples are applied to a previously prepared test plate having an antigen coating covered by a layer of agar. After incubation to cause antibodies from the samples to bind to the antigen coating, the agar layer is stripped off and a conjugate is applied in the form of a species specific enzyme-linked anti-immunoglobulin. After incubation to cause this conjugate to bind to the antibody-antigen coating, a previously prepared chromogen agar paper (CAP) impregnated with an enzyme substrate and acceptor, if needed, in agar is applied over the conjugate. After incubation to cause a color reaction, the results are read and interpreted in comparison with known standards. The invention includes a diagnostic kit for field testing. |