Avidin-Biotin Complex (ABC)-Based Detection

Modular and versatile with high sensitivity and low background

ABC-based detection is one of the most widely-used methods for staining. This ABC method exploits the high affinity exhibited between the protein avidin and the vitamin biotin. Avidin is tetravalent, so each avidin molecule can bind up to four biotinylated conjugates. In the ABC method, avidin and biotinylated enzyme is combined to form large macromolecular complexes containing multiple enzyme molecules. These added complexes bind to any biotinylated target, such as primary or secondary antibodies, nucleic acids, lectins, and macromolecules. When the chromogenic enzyme substrate is applied, it yields a colored precipitate at the site of the reaction. The large multi-enzyme complexes of the ABC method amplify the signal, providing greater sensitivity.