An Immunofluorescence Method to Measure the Neutralization of Human Cytomegalovirus
Published: February 29, 2024
Abstract
This video demonstrates an immunofluorescence assay designed to measure the neutralization of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV). Virus-specific antibodies are mixed with the virus and incubated with human fibroblast cells. The antibodies neutralize the virus, rendering it unable to infect the host cells, while non-neutralized viruses infect the cells. After incubation, the extent of neutralization is determined by quantifying the virus-infected cells using immunofluorescence.
Protocol
1. Preparation of target cells for infection Seed target cells the day prior to performing the experiment in a 96-well plate (the 'target' plate). Plate sufficient cells per well to ensure an almost confluent (~90%) monolayer. NOTE: This will depend on the relative size of your target cell type. If using human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs), seed 20,000 cells/well. Typically, 21 wells (7 down by 3 across) should be seeded per sample, allowing 4…