2010 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) To develop a panel of monoclonal antibodies that will be used to develop sensitive immunoassays for detection of multiple serotypes of botulinum neurotoxin. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Monoclonal anti-toxin antibodies for serotypes B and E will be developed using chemical cell fusion methods following immunization with toxoids, toxins, or recombinant peptides. In addition, antibodies to nontoxin associated proteins will be developed. The monoclonal antibodies will be supplied to DHS contractors and other collaborating federal laboratories in order to format sensitive immunoassays for toxin identification. Documents Reimbursable with U.S Department of Homeland Security. Log 40768. 3.Progress Report This report documents research conducted under a Reimbursable Agreement between ARS and the U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY. This project started late in FY10. Thus far, cell lines for monoclonal antibody production to detect ricin and botulinum neurotoxins A and B have been collected or produced, catalogued, and preserved in liquid nitrogen. A total of 14 anti-ricin hybridoma cell lines have been obtained. Monoclonal antibody production and purification is in progress. Antibodies specific for binding botulinum neurotoxin serotypes A and B have been produced, purified, and provided to DHS for incorporation into a botulinum neurotoxin test. Additional details for the research can be found in the report for the parent project 5325-42000-043-00D, DEVELOPMENT OF DETECTION TECHNOLOGIES FOR TOXINS AND THEIR VALIDATION IN FOOD MATRICES.