Accurate measurement of cytokine concentrations is a powerful and essential approach to the study of inflammation. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a simple, low-cost analytical tool that provides both the specificity and sensitivity required for the study of cytokines in vitro or in vivo. This communication describes a systematic approach to develop an indirect sandwich ELISA to detect and quantify cytokines, or other biomarkers, with accuracy and precision. Also detailed is the use of sequential ELISA assays to analyze multiple cytokines from samples with limited volumes. Finally, the concept of a multiplex ELISA is discussed with considerations given to cost and additional time required for development.
