Theoretical and practical application of radioimmunoassays

This book describes experiences made not only in developing and producing commercial reagent kits, but also those made in university research and diagnostic laboratories. The fundamental principles (radioactivity, immunoassay) are explained briefly and tersely. Then the components of the radioimmunoassay are described in detail and illustrated by selected practical examples (production of antibodies, separation of bound and free portions, standards). This chapter is followed by systematic instructions for composing a radioimmunoassay. The actual conditions of the complex problem of quality safety is explained, a field in which particularly the authors are to be regarded as pioneers. Finally an outlook indicates that radioactive alternatives, incorporating the principle of immunologic determinations methods, are available or will be developed for at least a few radioimmunoassays. (orig./MG)