Cross-reactivity

Cross-reactivity is the ability of the antibody to bind other structures than the target analyte. These structures have often a high similarity or homology to the analyte. The term cross-reactivity is used if the cross-reacting substance is known and the ability of cross-reacting has been proved e.g. by testing the competitive concentration of the cross-reacting substance. Cross-reacting substances are known for many clinical parameters and have to be mentioned in diagnostical findings. This can be tested by parallel measurements of the known cross-reacting substances. Due to financial reasons it’s often done without the reasonable additional tests. There is a smooth transition between nonspecific binding and cross reactivities. If the used antibodies have a high affinity, these problems can be avoided. Cross-reactivity can be prevented by using LowCross-Buffer®.