Project Number: 5325-42000-048-10
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jan 19, 2011
End Date: Sep 30, 2014

Objective:
The objective of this cooperative research project is to develop an electrochemiluminescence assay for BoNT in foods, using novel monoclonal antibodies developed by our ARS laboratory. Specifically, BoNT occurs in many serotype variations. This Agreement addresses BoNT serotypes A, B, and E. The foods covered under this Agreement include ground beef, liquid eggs, milk, and leafy greens, such as lettuce and spinach.

Approach:
We will test various monoclonal antibodies developed by ARS, as well as additional monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies available through commercial license. Antibodies will be employed in pairs, in sandwich format, using the Meso Scale platform for electrochemiluminescence. For validation, crude supernatant from cultures of each serotype will be spiked into foods, and the Lower Limit Of Detection (LLOD) determined. Formerly 5325-42000-043-10N (4/11).