The use of a sensitive micronephelometer in the estimation of antigens and precipitating antibodies

Abstract

A very sensitive micronephelometer has been used to measure the light-scattering of dilute mixtures of antigen solutions and precipitating antibodies. At equivalent ratios of antigen and antibody, the degree of light scattering is proportional to the protein content of the complex thus allowing estimates of antibody protein to be made. In the region of antibody excess, light scattering is proportional to the concentration of antigen thus allowing a calibration curve to be drawn which may be used in the estimation of antigen. The technique is quick and simple and the results are not markedly affected by moderate changes in pH, salt concentration, temperature or period of incubation.