Question

From the following option find out the most common confirmatory test used to diagnose AIDS.
A. ELISA
B. Western Blot
C. PCR
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: ELISA is Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent assay. In ELISA, the antigen is detected by the use of primary antibodies that are specific to the antigen. To ensure the specificity a secondary antibody specific to the first antibody is raised.

Complete answer: AIDS is “Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome.”
AIDS is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus that is HIV. It is a non-curable disease if detected at later stages and is transmitted by the transfusion of blood from infected individuals, unprotected sex, sharing drug needles with someone who is infected with HIV.
Since AIDS is caused by a virus so the normal immunological techniques can not be used for the detection of AIDS.
The most common confirmatory test for AIDS is ELISA that is Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay.

The test comprises of the various methods to collect sample like-
1. We need to rub the cotton swab in the cheek and take the sample.
2. The blood sample of the suspected individual can also be collected by the lab technician.
The antigens are separated from the collected samples and the ELISA test is done.
1. In this test, we take 32 well microtiter plates and first apply the primary antibody to the plate which is followed by incubation of the plate overnight.
2. It is followed by incubation of the well with the antigens of the suspected individuals and the excess antigens are washed away.
3. Now, the microtiter plate is incubated with the secondary antibody (specific to the HIV) fused with an enzyme that gives a colored reaction in the presence of the substrate.

Therefore, the correct option is A. ELISA.

Note: HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that destroys the body's immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can cause AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome).