serotypingar
Serotyping is a method used to differentiate and classify microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, based on the specific antigens on their surface. These antigens are molecules that the immune system recognizes and responds to, and they vary between different strains of the same species. Serotyping leverages this variation by using antibodies that are specific to these surface antigens. When antibodies are mixed with a sample containing the microorganisms, they will bind to the antigens they recognize. This binding can be detected through various techniques, such as agglutination, where the microorganisms clump together, or other immune-based assays.
The process involves preparing a panel of known antisera, each containing antibodies against specific surface antigens.