Diagnostic Immunology
The Diagnostic Immunology Laboratory (DIL) serves as the New York State public health reference laboratory performing serologic assays for the detection of patient antibody responses to bacteria, parasites, and viruses. A diverse array of techniques from classical to contemporary are employed.
The laboratory performs reference level testing for the confirmation of serologic results suggesting the presence of infectious diseases reportable to New York State. Through collaborations with the Department of Health's Division of Epidemiology, the laboratory assists in the investigation of infectious disease outbreaks and participates in disease surveillance.
Aside from certain public health programs, diagnostic testing of primary specimens is not routinely performed. However, upon consultation with the laboratory, special arrangements can be made for problematic cases.
The laboratory also collaborates with other public health and academic institutions in providing hands-on training in serologic assay development.
The laboratory mentors students from the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Program, fellowship programs, and the Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Integrated Health Sciences, University at Albany.
The Diagnostic Immunology Laboratory also performs applied research.