Improvement for identification of heterophile antibody interference and AFP hook effect in immunoassays with multiplex suspension bead array system

A variety of immunoassays including multiplex suspension bead array have been developed for tumor marker detections; however, these assays could be compromised in their sensitivity and specificity by well-known heterophile antibody interference and hook effect. Using Luminex® multiplex suspension bead arrays, we modified protocols with two newly-developed solutions that can identify heterophile antibody interference and AFP hook effect. Effectiveness of the two solutions was assessed in serum samples from patients. Concentrations of 9 tumor markers in heterophile antibody positive samples assayed with Solution A, containing murine monoclonal antibodies and mouse serum, were significantly reduced when compared with those false high signals assayed without Solution A (all p97% high specific reactivity.•A unique model for the identification of AFP hook effect was defined successfully.•Hook effect of AFP was effectively identified using AFP antigen beads.•Blocking Solution A was effective in eliminating heterophile interference.