ELASA

Enzyme-linked Aptasorbent Assay (ELASA) is a cutting-edge immunoassay that applies the specificity of aptamers for precise detection of target analytes in various sample types. Aptamers, often referred to as "chemical antibodies," are single-stranded oligonucleotides (DNA or RNA) specifically bind to targets by folding into secondary or tertiary structures. Aptamers have unique advantages such as high affinity, stability, and flexibility, positioning ELASA as a powerful tool for research, diagnostics, and biotechnology applications. 

 

Why ELASA?

ELASA represents the forefront of molecular diagnostics and research with applications across diverse fields, including diagnostic tools, biomarker discovery, biotechnology, fundamental research, environmental monitoring, and drug development. The key benefits of ELASA are: 

  • High Specificity and Affinity: Aptamers used in ELASA exhibit high specificity and affinity for their target molecules, including small molecules. This results in greater accuracy and reduced cross-reactivity.

  • Customizability: ELASA is highly customizable. Researchers can select aptamers that specifically bind to their target analyte, tailoring assays to unique requirements.

  • Stability: Aptamers are stable under a wide range of conditions, making ELASA robust and adaptable to different sample types and environments.

  • Cost-Efficiency: ELASA may reduce costs associated with antibody production and optimization, offering a more budget-friendly alternative.

  • Reduced Batch-to-Batch Variability: Unlike antibodies, aptamers can be synthesized consistently, reducing batch-to-batch variability, and ensuring assay reliability.

  • Minimal Animal Use: Aptamers are synthesized in vitro, eliminating the need for animal immunization, aligning with ethical considerations.

 

Different formats of ELASA

 

 

Direct ELASA: Usually used for purified target molecules and screening aptamer for target binding, relatively straightforward and quicker assay.

Indirect ELASA: Employed when requiring increased sensitivity, amplifies signals through a secondary antibody with a reporter molecule.

Sandwich ELASA: Used for the target present in low concentrations, it provides high sensitivity and specificity by utilizing two different aptamers or aptamer-antibody pair.

Competitive ELASA: Ideal for small molecule targets, competing with a reference target; presence of target in sample will inhibit binding of detection aptamer to the reference target.

Custom ELASA Development Services 

If you are looking to develop your own ELASA, our assay development branch, CytoGroup, is here to assist.

Specializing in the development of biosensors and diagnostic tools, CytoGroup offers comprehensive services to transform your concept into a fully functional commercial product.

Our team of experts will guide you through every stage of development, from design to manufacturing, ensuring your assay meets the highest standards of quality and performance.

Learn more about how CytoGroup can assist in your ELASA development.