Question

Antibodies that bind to specific proteins are important tools for the defining the locations of molecules in cells.  The sensitivity of the primary antibody (finds the target) is often enhanced by using labeled secondary antibodies that bind to it (as in an ELISA).  What are the advantages and disadvantages of using secondary antibodies that carry fluorescent tags versus those that carry bound enzymes?

Answer 1

ANSWER: Advantages of secondary antibodies that carry fluorescent tags-

1. It helps in the indentification of proteins.

2. It helps in fluoresence cell imanging.

3. Helps in western blotting.

4. Due to the presence of fluoresence it gives brighter signal.

DISADVANTAGES-

In a provided sample, secondary antibody can respond to other immunoglobin present in the sample which can cause a higher fluorescence.

Advantages of secondary antibodies that carry bound enzymes-

The secondary antibodies that are bound to an enzymes can easily detect the primary antigen through which it gets attached with the antigen.

DISADVANTAGES-

The secondary antibodies that carry bound enzymes always depends on the activity of primary antibodies. Also, it is more delicate and sesitive than primary antibodies.