Sigma-Aldrich™ Rabies Direct Fluorescence Detection Reagent, 5 mL

The Sigma-Aldrich™ Rabies Detection Reagent – Direct Fluorescence Assay (DFA) is a fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated monoclonal antibody reagent designed for the rapid and specific detection of rabies virus antigen in tissue samples using direct immunofluorescence microscopy.

This reagent contains a blend of two mouse monoclonal antibodies (clones 103.7 and 502.2) that recognize conserved epitopes of the rabies virus. Each antibody is purified, conjugated to FITC, and validated for high sensitivity and low background staining in diagnostic research applications.

Key Features

• Specific detection of rabies virus antigen by direct immunofluorescence.
• Blend of two monoclonal antibodies (clones 103.7 & 502.2) for broad epitope recognition.
• FITC-conjugated formulation provides bright, stable fluorescence signals.
• Validated for use in immunofluorescence (IF) applications.
• Ready-to-use purified reagent with defined concentration (1 mg/mL).
• High-quality reagent for rabies research and viral antigen detection.

Principle

The direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test is based on the use of FITC-labeled antibodies that bind specifically to rabies virus antigen present in infected tissue impressions or smears. When viewed under a fluorescence microscope, positive samples exhibit apple-green fluorescence, confirming the presence of rabies antigen.

This method is considered the gold standard for laboratory confirmation of rabies virus presence in diagnostic research applications.

Technical Specifications

Applications

• Rabies virus detection in animal and human tissue samples using direct immunofluorescence.
• Research on rabies pathogenesis and virus distribution.
• Validation of viral antigen presence in fixed tissue smears or brain impressions.
• Reference reagent for quality control in rabies diagnostic laboratories.

Preparation & Handling

• Storage: Store at +2°C to +8°C. Do not freeze.
• Working Dilution: The optimal dilution must be determined empirically for each specimen and laboratory condition.
• Reagent Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions until the expiration date.
• Sample Requirements: Suitable for tissue smears or cryostat sections from suspected rabies cases.

Safety & Precautions

• Contains sodium azide (0.1%) as a preservative. Handle with care.
• For research use only. Not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic use in humans or animals.
• Avoid exposure to light to preserve FITC fluorescence intensity.
• Dispose of all biological and chemical waste according to institutional biosafety protocols.

Unique Advantages

• High specificity and sensitivity for rabies antigen detection.
• Dual-clone monoclonal blend ensures consistent detection across strains.
• Low background fluorescence for clear interpretation.
• Validated for immunofluorescence microscopy.
• Reliable performance for rabies research laboratories.

The Sigma-Aldrich™ Rabies Detection Reagent (RU5500) offers rapid, sensitive, and specific detection of rabies virus antigen using the Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) method.

With its dual-clone FITC-conjugated monoclonal antibody formulation, this reagent ensures high reliability and clarity in rabies research and quality control applications.

A trusted reagent for virology, zoonotic disease research, and immunofluorescence-based detection of rabies virus.