What are the differences between cross-reactivity and specificity?

Basis of differentiation

Cross-reactivity

Speciftify

Definition

Is the ability of an antibody to bind to multiple antigens

Is the ability of an antibody to bind specifically to a single antigen or a group of closely related antigens

Occurrence

Occurs when an antibody recognizes epitopes shared among different antigens

Occurs when an antibody recognizes an epitope on a specific antigen 

Effect

May lead to false positives or nonspecific binding in assays

Ensures accurate results in assays by minimizing nonspecific bindings