A review on the progress in immunochemistry. Optimisation of the antigen-antibody reaction is described by characterisation of the epitope and paratope. Epitope mapping and methods of antibody engineering are introduced. We deals with current possibilities in synthesis of immunogens, antibodies and antibody mimics. Trends in automation and miniaturisation of analytical systems are reviewed.

        Key words: antigen, antibody, epitope, paratope, new analytical systems.