Honeybee Venom Detected by Enzyme Immunoassay

 

Mary Janis

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 1995, Volume 16

Abstract

The venom of the honeybee, Apis mellifera, contains numerous enzymes, volatiles, and other components. Allergic individuals develop anti-venom antibodies which may cause hives, anaphylactic shock, and death. In this exercise students detect concentrations of bee venom on nitrocellulose membranes following incubation of membranes with anti-venom antibodies, enzyme-conjugated secondary antibodies, and a colorimetric substrate. The intensity of the colored substrate deposited on the membrane is proportional to the original concentrations of bee venom spotted on the membrane. Students are introduced to micropipetting and to the concept of detection limits while learning about allergy and immunoassays.

Keywords:  bee venom, enzyme immunoassay, Western blot, anti-venom antibodies, allergy

Emory University (1994)