ELISA format Direct ELISA protocol Use direct ELISA when the assay format detects an immobilized target directly, such as a protein, peptide, small molecule, modified nucleoside, or other target presented in the well. This format is useful for direct target-detection workflows and kit formats built around direct detection. Use this format when: The target is detected directly from coated or immobilized material, including direct-detection kit formats, coating optimization, target screening, or assays where a directly labeled antibody or detection reagent is part of the workflow. Optimize first: Coating or immobilization conditions, sample dilution, blocking buffer, washing stringency, detection reagent concentration, and standard curve range. Coat or immobilize target Add purified target, lysate, sample, modified molecule, or kit-specified coating material to the plate and incubate under validated conditions. Block the plate Block wells to reduce non-specific binding.Include blank or background-control wells to measure plate and reagent background. Add direct detection reagent Add the kit-specified detection reagent, directly labeled antibody, or enzyme-conjugated antibody diluted in the recommended buffer.Start with datasheet or kit guidance and run a dilution series when optimizing a new assay. Wash thoroughly Wash enough to remove unbound detection reagent.High background is often improved by dilution, blocking, and wash optimization. Develop and read Add substrate, monitor color development, stop reaction if required, and read signal.