Stevens Immunology-Serology Practice Test

Which would be the best assay to measure a specific cytokine?

Blast formation T-cell proliferation Measurement of leukocyte chemotaxis ELISA testing

Correct Answer:

ELISA testing

Explanation:

Direct quantification of a soluble cytokine in a sample requires an assay that specifically detects the molecule. ELISA uses antibodies that bind the target cytokine and produce a measurable signal proportional to its concentration, giving precise, quantitative results in fluids or culture supernatants. This specificity and sensitivity make it ideal for measuring a single cytokine. The other approaches assess cellular responses rather than the cytokine’s actual amount: blast formation and T-cell proliferation look at how cells multiply in response to stimuli, not the cytokine’s level; measuring leukocyte chemotaxis examines movement toward signals, which again reflects activity rather than exact concentration.

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