NuMA ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) kits are designed to detect and quantify the Nuclear Mitotic Apparatus (NuMA) protein in biological samples. NuMA is a key protein involved in cell division, particularly in the formation and function of the mitotic spindle. It plays an essential role in the organization and stability of the spindle apparatus during mitosis and has implications in cancer research and cellular biology.

Components of NuMA ELISA Kits

• Microplate: A 96-well plate pre-coated with antibodies specific to NuMA. This pre-coating allows for the capture and quantification of NuMA from the sample.
• Reagents:
  • Capture Antibodies: These are antibodies immobilized on the microplate wells that specifically bind to NuMA.
  • Detection Antibodies: These antibodies are conjugated to an enzyme (e.g., horseradish peroxidase, HRP) and bind to NuMA captured by the capture antibodies.
  • Substrate Solution: Reacts with the enzyme linked to the detection antibodies to produce a colorimetric change proportional to the amount of NuMA present.
  • Stop Solution: Typically an acid solution that halts the enzymatic reaction and stabilizes the color development for measurement.

Applications

• Cancer Research: Measures NuMA levels to study its role in cell division and its potential dysregulation in cancerous cells, as altered NuMA expression can be associated with tumor progression.
• Cell Biology: Investigates the role of NuMA in spindle formation, mitotic progression, and cell division.
• Diagnostic Research: Assesses NuMA levels in various diseases to understand its potential as a biomarker for cellular proliferation and mitotic abnormalities.

Sensitivity and Specificity

• Sensitivity: Refers to the assay’s ability to detect low levels of NuMA. High sensitivity is crucial for accurately measuring NuMA, especially in samples with low concentrations.
• Specificity: Ensures that the assay accurately detects NuMA and minimizes cross-reactivity with other proteins or components.

NuMA ELISA kits are valuable tools for quantifying NuMA protein in various biological samples. They are widely used in cancer research, cell biology, and diagnostic studies related to cell division and mitotic processes. Understanding the components, procedures, and limitations of these kits ensures accurate and reliable measurement of NuMA, providing important insights into its biological functions and potential role in disease.