Invitrogen™ Rat IgA Uncoated ELISA Kit with Plates 

Description

The Rat Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Uncoated ELISA Kit contains pre-matched antibody pairs, plates, and reagents for performing quantitative enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to detect and quantify protein levels of rat IgA. Wash Buffer and Stop Solution are needed to complete the ELISA reaction and are sold separately. Principle of the method ELISAs are designed to measure the amount of the target bound between a matched antibody pair. A target-specific antibody is coated to the bottom of the wells of a microplate, which is an overnight process. Samples, standards, or controls are then added into these wells and bind to the immobilized (capture) antibody. A sandwich is formed by the addition of the second (detector) antibody, a substrate solution is added that reacts with the enzyme-antibody-target complex to produce measurable signal. The intensity of this signal is directly proportional to the concentration of target present in the original specimen.

Rat IgA is an essential immunoglobulin isotype that is predominantly present in mucosal secretions like colostrum, saliva, and tears. It acts as a crucial defense mechanism against pathogens that enter the body through mucosal surfaces. Rat IgA is made up of two heavy chains and two light chains, with a molecular weight of approximately 170 kDa. It is produced by B cells in response to antigenic stimulation and has the ability to bind to various antigens, including bacteria, viruses, and toxins. Rat IgA functions by neutralizing these pathogens and preventing their attachment to mucosal surfaces, which helps to reduce the risk of infection. It also activates complement and recruits immune cells to the site of infection, further enhancing the immune response. Rat IgA is widely used as a research tool in immunology and infectious disease studies and has been produced for therapeutic applications such as in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and mucosal infections. Overall, Rat IgA is a critical component of the immune system and plays a crucial role in protecting the body against mucosal infections.