An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of monoclonal antibodies recognizing surface antigens expressed on viable cells.

A solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been developed for detecting monoclonal antibodies binding to surface antigens expressed on viable adherent cells of tumor cell lines. This assay utilizes a sheep anti-mouse IgG to which a beta-galactosidase is linked. It is highly sensitive and permits quantification of IgG monoclonal antibody levels. In studies of monoclonal antibodies prepared against human tumors, the ELISA assay revealed the presence of antigens which were not seen using acetone-fixed cell immunofluorescence methods. This assay is safe, rapid, low cost, and gives reproducible quantitative results. As such it should prove useful to laboratories engaged in the study of antigens expressed on cell membranes.