The MesaCup DSG-1 and DSG-3 ELISA Test System is a semi-quantitative test for the detection of auto-antibodies to desmoglein 1 (DSG-1) and desmoglein 3 (DSG-3) in human serum. It is intended for in vitro diagnostic use as an aid in the diagnosis of certain pemphigus diseases.
Pemphigus includes a group of autoimmune blistering diseases characterized by intraepithelial lesions.
Immunofluorescent studies reveal that both forms of pemphigus are caused by auto-antibodies to cell surface antigens of stratified epithelia of mucous membranes and skin. Pemphigus vulgaris patients with both mucosal and skin lesions have antibodies to both DSG-3 and DSG-1.
The diagnosis of pemphigus depends on biopsy and serum studies that characterize lesions and detect the auto-antibodies that cause them. Serum studies, which were originally performed by indirect immunofluorescence using monkey esophagus and other tissue sections, afford sensitive diagnostic aids. Identification of the reactive antigens as DSG-1 and DSG-3 has made it possible to develop sensitive and specific ELISA methods.
RhiGene Inc.
www.rhigene.com
Keyword: test kit, pemphigus
