Development of an ELISA for paraquat; improvement of antibody characteristics by reversed affinity chromatography

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for paraquat is described. The microtitration plate-based assay has a limit of detection of 10 pg per wel l, and was specific for paraquat and monoquat. Reversed affinity chromatogr aphy was used to refine the polyclonal antibody preparation and eliminate i nterfering antibodies. There were consequent and significant improvements i n assay sensitivity and performance. The potential for application of the a ssay to a variety of matrices is discussed.