Measles

Measles virus is an RNA virus of the genus Paramyxoviridae that has a lipid envelope. Measles is characterized by fever and rashes that quickly spread throughout the body. This disease can have serious consequences, especially in children under five years of age, causing serious complications. During pregnancy, measles can lead to premature birth or miscarriage. The key factors in the pathogenesis of the virus are the F (fusion) protein, which ensures the penetration of the virus into cells and H (hemagglutinin), which facilitates the binding of the virus.
Diagnosis of measles is carried out on the basis of the clinical picture, as well as using various laboratory methods, such as PCR, hemagglutination test, ELISA. Detection of measles RNA by PCR in respiratory samples confirms acute infection, as opposed to a history of infection, or the effectiveness of vaccination can be determined using serological tests. IgM antibodies to measles begin to be produced approximately 1-2 weeks after the onset of symptoms, while IgG antibodies are usually detected approximately 2 weeks later. As the immune response matures, low avidity antibodies are replaced by high avidity antibodies. Thus, by determining the antibody avidity coefficient, it is possible to distinguish a recent infection from an anamnestic one.
Vitrotest is a manufacturer of mouse monoclonal antibodies produced against native measles virus antigens. Some clones have low avidity to the virus and some have higher avidity. Their suitability for ELISA has been proven by many years of experience. Monoclonal antibodies can replace serum-containing components such as positive controls and calibrators in kits. This replacement is especially relevant due to the shortage of low-avidity samples.