OBJECTIVETo establish and optimize methods to detect the immune complexes (IC) of hepatitis B virus directly.

METHODSA C1q solid phase ELISA, mouse anti-HBs MAb solid phase ELISA and the complement consumption assay were established to detect the IC and these methods were optimized.

RESULTSAll the three methods were highly sensitive, specific and reproducible. The C1q used for coating tended to lose its activity easily at room temperature. Although strict requirements are needed for the raw and processed materials for complement consumption assay and the process of manipulation is complex, it can quantitatively detect IC. Comparing to the C1q solid ELISA and complement consumption assay, the mouse anti-HBs MAb solid phase ELISA has its own merits: convenience and stability.

CONCLUSIONMouse anti-HBs MAb solid phase ELISA is the best way to detect IC directly.