Detection of harmful epitopes in foods - Other testing Principles

3 important questions on Detection of harmful epitopes in foods - Other testing Principles

What is PCR testing?

Detection of DNA fragments by a repeated amplification procedure.

What are advantages and disadvantages of using PCR testing for allergen detection?

Advantages
  • Well developed technique
  • Relatively easy
  • Highly sensitive


Disadvantages
  • Presence or absence of DNA is not directly related to the presence of the antigen
  • DNA is relatively heat labile: processing will lead to false negatives

Why is T-cell testing not often used in antigen testing?

Human T-cells can be used in antigen testing.
  • This test can only be used in specialised laboratories since it requires advanced facilities for cell culture and monitoring T-cell reactivity.
  • Also, since the test works with live cells, severe restrictions apply to the solvents used for antigen extraction

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