Products and Services Catalog IDEXX Technology IDEXX People Introduction Introduction *FlockChek, HerdChek, CHEKIT and xChek are trademarks or registered trademarks of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other products, company names and logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Catalog Products and Services Catalog Every day around the world, thousands of laboratories and clinics rely on IDEXX instrumentation, microtiter well assays and software for accurate assessment of infectious diseases in poultry, swine, horses and ruminants— including cattle, sheep, goats and deer. Since its beginning in 1984, IDEXX has been dedicated to working with veterinarians and researchers worldwide to bring the most advanced veterinary diagnostic products into their laboratories and practices. This strong commitment to veterinary medicine has led to the development of a team of dedicated IDEXX customer and technical service staff who help veterinarians, producers, researchers and technicians around the world. IDEXX products have been developed by on-site research-and-development scientists, whose experiences span such diverse technologies as DNA probe, immunoassays, clinical chemistries, microbiology, hematology, molecular biology and cellular biology. IDEXX has established a strong global presence in veterinary medicine, maintaining offices throughout the world and offering products to customers in more than 50 countries. In 2004, IDEXX welcomed Bommeli Diagnostics into its organization. Located in Bern, Switzerland, Bommeli produces and distributes state-of-the-art ELISAs worldwide—their CHEKIT* ELISA product line stems from the Bommeli IBR total antibody ELISA, the first commercially available test. The combined resources of IDEXX and Bommeli allow us to offer improved customer and technical service and a wider range of diagnostic products. Introduction 1-1 Technology IDEXX Technology AGID The agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) test involves the diffusion of antigen and antibody through an agar gel matrix. At areas of concentration equilibrium, precipitin lines of identity can be visualized in positive sera, whereas no precipitin lines of identity form with negative sera. FlockChek*, HerdChek* and CHEKIT* ELISA Kits IDEXX offers cost-effective microwell tests to aid in the detection of livestock and poultry diseases. Samples are introduced into wells coated with antibody or antigen, and allowed to incubate. After washing and the subsequent addition of detector reagents, results are then read using an ELISA plate reader. The reader can be connected to a computer with IDEXX xChek* software installed. xChek calculates test results and provides various data summaries and graphical reports that are helpful in herd and flock disease management. DNA Probe Kits The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification procedure utilizes synthetic DNA molecules that are specific for infectious agents to amplify small numbers of target DNA molecules. This highly sensitive and specific technique can be used for the direct detection of infectious agents in various clinical specimens. HerdChek* PCFIA Systems Introduction Particle concentration fluorescence immunoassay (PCFIA) is based on the use of submicron polystyrene particles as the solid phase for performing rapid and sensitive fluorescent immunoassays. Particles coated with antigens react with sample and fluorescent conjugate in the wells of a patented 96-well vacuum filtration plate. Separation of bound versus free fluorescence is achieved by vacuum filtration. The solid-phase particles are then washed to remove unbound antibodies and the total particle-bound fluorescence is quantitated by front-surface fluorimetry. 1-2 People IDEXX People Research and Development/Technical Support The IDEXX research and development organization continues to provide an important competitive advantage. This team of more than 150 professionals continuously develops new products and supports more than 350 existing products. The IDEXX Production Animal Services division has aligned key individuals within the R&D team to assist with our customers’ evolving needs. Production/Distribution IDEXX Laboratories operates two locations that manufacture products to high standards: Westbrook, Maine, USA, a USDA-licensed facility that is anticipated to be ISO 9001-2000 certified in 2006, and the ISO-certified Bern, Switzerland, plant. Products are qualified worldwide by appropriate national reference laboratories prior to sale and distribution. IDEXX has state-of-the-art distribution facilities in the United States and Europe, and maintains a worldwide network of distributors to facilitate product delivery to customers. Sales and Product Support IDEXX has established a superb sales force throughout the world. We have representatives in North America, Europe, South America and Asia ready to listen to customer needs and provide innovative solutions. Customer and Technical Services Our customer and technical service representatives are committed to understanding and responding to the needs of customers worldwide. They are available for your ordering needs, technical questions, and equipment and software installations. Introduction 1-3 Introduction Avian Encephalomyelitis (AE) Avian Influenza (AI) Avian Leukosis Virus (LLAg, LLAb, ALV-J) Avian Pneumovirus (APV) Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) Infectious Bursal Disease—Gumboro Disease (IBD, IBD-XR) Mycoplasma (MG, MS, MG/MS, MM) Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV, NDV-T) Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale (ORT) Pasteurella multocida (PM, PM-T) Reovirus (REO) Reticuloendotheliosis Virus (REV) Salmonella enteritidis (SE) Poultry Test Kits Poultry Test Kits AE Avian Encephalomyelitis Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* AE Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format Avian encephalomyelitis (AE) is a viral infection primarily affecting young birds. The disease is characterized by a variety of neurological signs, including incoordination, ataxia and tremors of the head and neck. An assessment of immune status, as well as serologic identification of AE, requires a measurement of antibody to AE in serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) have proven efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to AE, and facilitate the monitoring of immune status in large flocks. Poultry Test Kits 2-1 AI Avian Influenza Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* AI Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format Poultry Test Kits Strains detected include: H7N2 H1N7 H7N3 H5N9 H11N6 H3N8 H5N2 H4N8 H10N7 H8N4 H14N5 H6N5 H5N1 2-2 H13N6 H9N2 H2N9 H12N5 Domestic and wild avian species are affected by avian influenza viruses. The disease is characterized by a wide range of responses, from virtually no clinical signs to high mortality. Respiratory signs are common, along with a drop in egg production, greenish diarrhea, bloodstained nasal and oral discharges, and cyanosis and edema of the head, comb and wattle. Due to the variation and severity of clinical symptoms, serological testing produces significant advantages to detection of infected flocks. Monitoring the exposure of a flock to influenza viruses is facilitated by the measurement of antibody to avian influenza virus in serum. ALV Lymphoid leukosis, the most common manifestation of the avian leukosis/ sarcoma group of viruses, produces a variety of neoplastic diseases, including erythroblastosis, myelocytomatosis, myeloblastosis and others. Not all infected birds will develop tumors. Infection can occur horizontally from bird to bird by direct or indirect contact, or vertically from an infected hen to her eggs as virus is shed into the albumin of the egg. In addition, vertical transmission may occur from virus incorporated in the DNA of a germ cell. Viremia in the hen is strongly associated with the transmission of virus congenitally. Enzyme immunoassays have proven efficacious in the detection of both leukosis antibody and antigen. Avian Leukosis Virus Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* LL Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format This enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is designed to detect antibody to avian leukosis virus (ALV) subgroups A and B in chicken serum. Antibody to subgroups C–E and J are not detected. Avian Leukosis-J Virus Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* ALV-J Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format ALV-J is an avian retrovirus first isolated in meat-type chickens in the late 1980s, and is designated as a unique subgroup partly based on the envelope glycoprotein (gp85).1 Clinically, ALV-J causes predominantly myeloid leukosis, with variable tumor frequency across chicken lines.1,2 As with other avian leukosis viruses, ALV-J is transmitted both vertically (congenital infection of the egg albumin and the chick embryo) and horizontally (through close contact with infected chicks).2,3 This test was designed as a screening tool using serum samples from flocks 10 weeks of age or older. Avian Leukosis Virus Antigen Test Kit FlockChek* LL Antigen (p27) ELISA: 5 plates; albumin, cloacal swab and serum samples; antigen-capture format The ALV antigen test detects p27, an antigen common to all subgroups of ALV, including endogenous viruses. The recommended sample types are light albumin and cloacal swabs. While serum has been validated for use on the ALV antigen test, it is not a recommended sample for the detection of exogenous virus because of potential interference from endogenous sequences.4 2 Payne LN, Fadly AM. Neoplastic diseases/Leukosis/Sarcoma group. In: Calnek BW, et al, eds. Diseases of Poultry. 10th ed. Ames, Ia: Iowa State University Press; 1997:414–466. 3 Payne LN. HPRS-103: A retrovirus strikes back. The emergence of subgroup J avian leukosis virus. Avian Pathology. 1998;27:36–45. 4 Payne LN, Gillespie AM, Howes K. Unsuitability of chicken sera for detection of exogenous ALV by the group-specific antigen ELISA. Veterinary Record. May 1993:555–557. 2-3 Poultry Test Kits 1 Payne LN, et al. A novel subgroup of exogenous avian leukosis virus in chickens. Journal of General Virolog. 1991;72:801–807. APV Avian Pneumovirus Antibody Test Kit Poultry Test Kits FlockChek* APV Antibody ELISA‡: Detects A, B and/or C avian pneumovirus serotypes, 5 plates (solid), chicken and turkey serum, indirect format Avian pneumovirus (APV), previously known as turkey rhinotracheitis virus, causes acute, highly contagious upper respiratory tract diseases in turkeys and chickens. Typical signs of the disease include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, swollen sinuses and a marked drop in egg production. The virus can also infect chickens without exhibiting any clinical signs. The FlockChek* Avian Pneumovirus Antibody Test Kit is designed to detect APVspecific antibodies in serum samples. ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 2-4 CAV Chicken Anemia Virus Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* CAV Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, blocking format, 1:10 dilution for detection, titer calculation available for 1:100 dilution for monitoring vaccine response Chicken anemia virus (CAV) is an important pathogen of poultry and has been found in broilers, breeders and specific-pathogen-free flocks. Virus isolation is difficult and time-consuming. Screening for the presence of antibody will indicate exposure to the virus. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been utilized to detect antibody against CAV. This method is quite useful in largescale testing of flocks for exposure to CAV. Poultry Test Kits 2-5 IBV Infectious Bronchitis Virus Antibody Test Kit Poultry Test Kits FlockChek* IBV Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format 2-6 Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a highly contagious viral disease of chickens that is usually manifested as a respiratory condition. An assessment of immune status, as well as serological identification of IBV, requires a measurement of antibody to IBV in serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) systems have proven efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to IBV, and facilitate the monitoring of immune status in large flocks. IBD Infectious bursal disease (IBD), or Gumboro disease, is a viral disease affecting chickens in a subclinical form (early bursa atrophy) that may lead to a temporary or permanent immunosuppression. The clinical form in chickens may appear at 3–6 weeks of age. The bursa becomes swollen and then quickly regresses to a small size, leading to suppression of the immune system. Symptoms include anorexia, incoordination and depression. Affected birds are more susceptible to a variety of infectious agents, including Staphylococcus, Clostridium, E. coli and the respiratory viruses. Coinfection with CAV can enhance the immunosuppression condition. Losses may approach 20% in an infected flock, and subsequent flocks may become infected from a contaminated living environment. An assessment of immune status, as well as serologic identification of IBD, requires a measurement of antibody to IBD in serum. Infectious Bursal Disease Antibody Test Kits FlockChek* IBD Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) systems are efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to IBD, facilitate the monitoring of immune status in flocks, and aid in determining the appropriate time for vaccination. FlockChek* IBD-XR Antibody ELISA (Extended Range): 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, extended titer range, enhanced detection of variant strains This ELISA’s extended titer range allows for the differentiation of IBD viruses and enhanced detection of IBD variant strains. Poultry Test Kits 2-7 Mycoplasma Poultry flocks are susceptible to respiratory infections from a variety of agents, including Mycoplasma spp. The usual types of infection from Mycoplasma spp are chronic respiratory disease, airsacculitis, sinusitis and synovitis. In many cases, however, the infection may be identified only through serological and culture methods. Monitoring a flock for exposure to Mycoplasma is facilitated by the measurement of antibody to Mycoplasma in serum. Mycoplasma gallisepticum Test Kits FlockChek* MG Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, chicken and turkey samples FlockChek* MG/MS Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, plates coated with both MG and MS antigens, chicken and turkey samples FlockChek* MG DNA Probe: 30 tests per kit, tracheal swab, PCR** DNAamplification procedure, chicken and turkey samples Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is associated with chronic respiratory disease in chickens and infectious sinusitis in turkeys. The symptoms generally seen are coryza, coughing, nasal exudate and respiratory rales. Economic losses due to M. gallisepticum infection include reduced egg production, poor eggshell quality, lowered hatchability of chicks and downgraded meat quality. The FlockChek* Mycoplasma gallisepticum DNA Probe Test Kit is a nonradioactive probe-based test utilizing PCR amplification for the specific detection of Mycoplasma gallisepticum genomic DNA from chicken and turkey tracheal swab samples. Mycoplasma meleagridis Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* MM Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, turkey samples Mycoplasma meleagridis (MM) is the cause of egg-transmitted disease of turkeys in which the primary lesion is an airsacculitis in the progeny. Other manifestations include decreased hatchability, skeletal abnormalities and poor growth performance. The organism is a specific pathogen of turkeys. MM is distributed worldwide, and the incidence of MM-associated airsacculitis is very high (20–65%) in naturally infected cull poults. Mycoplasma synoviae Test Kits FlockChek* MS Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, chicken and turkey samples Poultry Test Kits FlockChek* MG/MS Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, plates coated with both MG and MS antigens, chicken and turkey samples FlockChek* MS DNA Probe: 30 tests per kit, tracheal swab, PCR** DNAamplification procedure, chicken and turkey samples 2-8 Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) is a known pathogen associated with the development of synovitis and chronic respiratory disease in chickens and turkeys. Clinical symptoms include joint swelling, coryza and respiratory rales. Economic losses due to M. synoviae infection include reduced egg production, lowered hatchability of chicks and downgraded meat quality. The FlockChek* Mycoplasma synoviae DNA Probe Test Kit is a nonradioactive probe-based test utilizing PCR** amplification for the specific detection of Mycoplasma synoviae genomic DNA from chicken and turkey tracheal swab samples. NDV Newcastle Disease Virus Antibody Test Kits FlockChek* NDV Antibody ELISA for chickens: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format FlockChek* NDV Antibody ELISA for turkeys: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format Newcastle disease is a highly contagious and sometimes fatal illness affecting poultry. The severity of the disease is a function of the virulence of the infecting viral strain. Lentogenic strains infect the trachea, lungs and air sacs, and interfere with egg production. Mesogenic and velogenic strains are manifested through incoordination, paralysis, swelling of tissue around the eyes, diarrhea and eventual death. An assessment of immune status, as well as serological identification of Newcastle disease virus (NDV), requires a measurement of antibody to NDV in serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) systems have proven efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to NDV, and facilitate the monitoring of immune status in large flocks. Poultry Test Kits 2-9 ORT Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale Antibody Test Kit Poultry Test Kits FlockChek* ORT Antibody ELISA‡: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, chicken and turkey samples Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale has been associated with respiratory disease, increased mortality, retarded growth and decreased egg production in avian species worldwide. Viral or bacterial infections by IBV, APV and NDV are able to trigger an ORT infection. An assessment of immune status, as well as serologic identification of ORT, requires a measurement of antibody to ORT in serum. Enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) systems have proven efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to ORT, and facilitate the monitoring of immune status in large flocks. The FlockChek* ORT Test Kit detects serological response to ORT serotypes A–M. ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S.. 2-10 PM Pasteurella multocida Antibody Test Kits FlockChek* PM Antibody ELISA for chickens: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format FlockChek* PM Antibody ELISA for turkeys: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format Fowl cholera, caused by Pasteurella multocida (PM) infection, is a commonly occurring disease of birds. In the acute form, its usual symptom is a septicemia with associated high morbidity and mortality. Chronic localized infections can also occur, either following an acute exposure or resulting in infection with an organism of low virulence. Clinical signs of acute infections are typical of bacterial septicemia, whereas the signs of chronic disease are typically related to the anatomic location of the infection. An assessment of immune status, as well as serologic identification of PM, requires a measurement of antibody in serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) have proven efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to other diseases, and facilitate the monitoring of immune status in large flocks. Poultry Test Kits 2-11 REO Avian Reovirus Antibody Test Kit Poultry Test Kits FlockChek* REO Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format 2-12 Avian reoviruses are ubiquitous among poultry populations and have been reported to be responsible for viral arthritis (tenosynovitis), runting/stunting, malabsorbtion syndrome and feed passage in birds 4–16 weeks of age. The incidence of reovirus infection in older birds is high, but clinical symptoms are not seen in most birds. An assessment of immune status, as well as serologic identification of avian reovirus, requires a measurement of antibody to reovirus in serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) have proven efficacious in the quantification of antibody levels to other diseases, and facilitate the monitoring of immune status in large flocks. REV Reticuloendotheliosis Virus Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* REV Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format Reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) is a retrovirus that is morphologically similar to, but genetically distinct from, the avian leukosis/sarcoma viruses. Runting disease has been reported in chickens through the application of vaccines contaminated with REV. In addition, REV can produce disease in experimentally infected chickens that is pathologically indistinguishable from lymphoid leukosis. An assessment of infection with REV requires a measurement of antibody to REV in serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) are especially suitable for screening chicken flocks. Poultry Test Kits 2-13 SE Salmonella enteritidis Antibody Test Kit FlockChek* SE Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum and egg yolk samples, blocking format Salmonellosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases. The major factor in the success of Salmonella spp as virtually universal pathogens is their ability to adapt to almost any kind of host. Salmonella-contaminated food products are a major source of human infection. Control programs based on serological monitoring and isolation of Salmonella aim not only toward the reduction of infection prevalence, but also could serve as valuable tools to change routines to decrease food contamination. Salmonella enteritidis (SE) is an important pathogen of poultry and has been isolated from broilers, breeders and commercial egg-laying flocks. Bacteriological identification of positive birds is difficult due to the intermittent excretion of the organism. The presence of antibody does not always signify infection, but is indicative of previous exposure. Poultry Test Kits The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has shown utility in the detection of antibody to Salmonella in poultry, and is particularly useful in large-scale monitoring of flocks for Salmonella enteritidis infection. The FlockChek* SE Test Kit can be used as an initial screening method for the presence of Salmonella enteritidis antibodies. Because the SE ELISA is a g,m flagellin-based assay, other Salmonella serotypes that share the epitopes of g,m flagellin can potentially yield positive results. Therefore, positive ELISA screening results must always be confirmed by standard bacteriological methods. 2-14 Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App) Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV Ab, CSFV Ag) Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyo.) Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS 2XR) Pseudorabies Virus—Aujeszky’s disease (PRV gB, PRV-V, PRV-S, PRV g1 (gE)) Swine Influenza (SIV H1N1, SIV H3N2) Swine Salmonella Swine Test Kits Swine Test Kits App APP-ApxIV Antibody Test Kit CHEKIT* APP Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates or 10 plates (strips), unique serological screening method covering all serotypes, no cross-reaction with other bacteria, differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA), results in less than three hours Swine pleuropneumonia caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App) is a highly contagious pulmonary disease that may cause important economic losses. Clinical signs of the acute disease are dyspnea, coughing, anorexia, depression, fever and sometimes vomiting. In the absence of treatment, the disease can progress very rapidly and death can occur within a few hours. Chronic infections are characterized by cough and pleuritis in the lungs. It is important to differentiate infection from disease. Indeed, many herds are infected with App without presenting any clinical evidence of the disease. Carrier pigs harbor App in their nasal cavities and/or tonsils. These animals represent the major source of dissemination of the infection between herds. Mixing animals infected with virulent App strains together with immunologically naive animals, inappropriate management, concurrent infections (e.g., PRRS, pseudorabies) and/or stress conditions may be responsible for the sudden appearance of severe clinical disease. Fifteen serotypes have been described, which variously express four different proteinaceous cytotoxins (ApxI, ApxII, ApxIII, ApxIV) belonging to the RTX toxin family. There are many lines of evidence that suggest these toxins play a predominant role in the pathogenicity of App with different activities (hemolytic, cytotoxic, etc.). Due to their strong antigenic properties, they have been used in the serodiagnosis of App infections. However, other bacteria express toxins that serologically cross-react with ApxI, ApxII or ApxIII. In contrast, ApxIV, a fourth RTX determinant, has been found to be common and specific to all serotypes. Swine Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 3-1 CSFV Classical Swine Fever Virus Test Kits HerdChek* CSFV Antibody ELISA‡: 5 plates (solid or strips), serum or plasma samples, overnight protocol with optional two-hour result CHEKIT* CSF SERO Antibody ELISA: 10 plates (strips), serum or plasma samples, overnight protocol, blocking (competitive) format CHEKIT* HCV Antigen ELISA: 2 and 10 plates (strips); serum, plasma or leukocyte samples; short and overnight protocols CHEKIT* CSF Marker ELISA: 10 plates (strips), serum or plasma samples, differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA) Classical swine fever virus (CSFV), or hog cholera, causes serious losses in the pig industry because it is highly pathogenic and may cause widespread deaths. Pigs infected with highly virulent CSFV strains may shed high amounts of virus before showing clinical signs of the disease. Animals that survive an acute or subacute infection develop antibodies and will no longer spread the virus. Moderately virulent, less pathogenic strains may lead to chronic infection when pigs excrete the virus continuously or intermittently until death. Congenital infection may result in abortion, mummified fetuses, stillborn and/or weak piglets, or embryonic malformations. The most frequent outcome of congenital infection with low virulent strains is the birth of persistently infected piglets spreading the virus without the signs of the disease in the absence of immune response. All animals shedding the virus need to be identified and removed from the herd to prevent the spread of infection. Pigs may also be infected with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) or border disease virus (BDV). Although these infections in pigs are usually mild and self-limiting, it is important to reliably distinguish them from the CSFV infection. Swine Test Kits The field experience and EU regulation actually in place are also asking for a DIVA system that permits the differentiation between SCF-negative animals and animals vaccinated with an E2 subunit vaccine (Erns-negative) from CSF-infected animals (Erns-positive). ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 3-2 FMD Foot-and-Mouth Disease 3ABC Antibody Test Kit CHEKIT* FMD Antibody ELISA‡: 2 and 10 plates (strips), specific to screening serum or plasma samples from swine, differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA) Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread rapidly and affects both domesticated and wild ruminants, as well as pigs. FMD has an economically devastating impact on affected countries because trade barriers are imposed in countries where the disease occurs. The FMD genome encodes a single polyprotein that is cleaved during the translation. Mature structural and nonstructural viral protein derive after a cascade of further cleavages by viral proteases. Vaccine produced according to the guidelines of the OIE are depleted of nonstructural proteins like 3ABC during purification steps. Antibody to 3ABC is generally accepted as the most reliable single indicator for viral replication. Detection of anti-3ABC antibodies has been described upon challenge in animals with and without previous vaccination, confirming the potential of 3ABC as a marker for the surveillance of vaccinated populations. Swine Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 3-3 M. hyo. Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae Antibody Test Kit Swine Test Kits HerdChek* M. hyo. Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum and plasma samples, indirect format, results in less than two hours 3-4 Enzootic pneumonia, or mycoplasma pneumonia of swine, a chronic disease with a high morbidity and a low mortality, is caused by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. The clinical signs include a chronic nonproductive cough, retarded growth, slow onset, and spread and repeated occurrence of the disease. The IDEXX M. hyo. antibody ELISA allows rapid screening for the presence of antibodies to Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, which can be an indicator of exposure to the agent. Monitoring the immune status of a herd with regard to M. hyo. can play an important role in the control of this disease. PRRS Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Antibody Test Kit HerdChek* PRRS 2XR Antibody ELISA: 5 plates (strips), serum samples, utilizes recombinant PRRS and normal host cell (NHC) antigens, results in less than two hours Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a swine disease that causes reproductive problems, respiratory disease and mild neurological signs. Due to the general clinical symptoms presented in most cases, diagnosis is often confused with swine influenza, pseudorabies (Aujeszky’s disease), classical swine fever virus, parvovirus, encephalomyocarditis, Chlamydia and Mycoplasma. A major component of the syndrome is reproductive failure, resulting in premature births, late-term abortions, piglets born weak, increased stillbirths, mummified fetuses, decreased farrowing rates and delayed return to estrus. These aspects of the syndrome have been observed to last 1–3 months. Respiratory disease is another significant feature of the syndrome that will most likely affect pigs less than 3–4 weeks of age. Respiratory signs can occur in most stages of the production cycle. The PRRS 2XR ELISA can be used to develop herd profiles that provide important decision-making information to better manage PRRS-exposed herds. The IDEXX xChek* software provides the ability to assess the significance of changes in herd profiles over time. You can perform additional statistical and/or graphical analyses and export the data to Microsoft* Excel files. Swine Test Kits 3-5 PRV Pseudorabies virus (PRV/Aujeszky’s disease) is caused by a type 1 porcine herpesvirus. Infections with the highest mortality rate are those affecting suckling pigs born to a susceptible sow. Baby pigs in the fatal course of the disease exhibit difficulty breathing, fever, hypersalivation, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, trembling and depression. Within this age group, the final stages of infection are commonly characterized by ataxia, nystagmus, running fits, intermittent convulsions, coma and death. Death usually occurs 24–48 hours following apparent clinical symptoms. The clinical events of the disease in weaning and fattening pigs are essentially the same except the course of the disease is usually protracted 4–8 days. The mortality rate in mature pigs may reach 2%, however, losses do not usually occur. While the clinical course in pregnant swine is virtually the same as in mature pigs, there is variation due to transplacental infection of fetuses. Transplacental infection with PRV can occur, and depending upon the stage of gestation, one of the following sequelae may occur: resorption, premature expulsion, birth of macerated fetuses, stillbirth, or birth of weak, infected pigs. An assessment of the exposure to pseudorabies virus via natural infection or vaccine is facilitated by a measurement of antibody in the serum. Pseudorabies Virus Antibody Test Kits The HerdChek* PRV gB Test Kit is a blocking immunoassay for the detection of antibodies in swine serum or plasma to the gB antigen of the pseudorabies virus (PRV/Aujeszky’s disease). The presence of antibodies indicates exposure to the pseudorabies virus. HerdChek* PRV g1 (gE) Antibody ELISA: 6 (strips) and 30 plate (solid), serum samples, differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA), results in less than two hours The HerdChek* Anti-PRV g1 (gE) Test Kit is an immunoassay for the detection of antibodies in swine serum to the g1 (gE) antigen of pseudorabies virus (PRV/Aujeszky’s disease). The presence of antibodies indicates exposure to field strains of PRV and/or vaccines containing g1 antigen. This differential test is intended for use in herd management and pseudorabies eradication applications. Swine Test Kits HerdChek* PRV gB Antibody ELISA: 6 plates (solid), serum or plasma samples, blocking format, results in less than two hours 3-6 SIV Swine influenza is an acute infectious respiratory disease of swine caused by type A influenza viruses. The disease is characterized by a sudden onset, coughing, dyspnea, fever and prostration, followed by rapid recovery. Swine Influenza Virus (H1N1) Antibody Test Kit HerdChek* SIV (H1N1) Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, results in less than two hours The IDEXX SIV (H1N1) antibody ELISA allows rapid screening for the presence of antibodies to subtype H1N1 swine influenza, which can be an indicator of exposure to the virus. Monitoring the immune status of a herd, maternal antibody decay, vaccine immune response, and field virus interaction with vaccination program with regard to SIV (H1N1) can play an important role in the control of swine influenza virus. Swine Influenza Virus (H3N2) Antibody Test Kit HerdChek* SIV (H3N2) Antibody ELISA: 5 plates, serum samples, indirect format, results in less than two hours The IDEXX SIV (H3N2) antibody ELISA allows rapid screening for the presence of antibodies to subtype H3N2 swine influenza, which can be an indicator of exposure to the virus. Monitoring the immune status of a herd, maternal antibody decay, vaccine immune response, and field virus interaction with vaccination program with regard to SIV (H3N2) can play an important role in the control of swine influenza virus. Swine Test Kits 3-7 Salmonella Swine Salmonella Antibody Test Kit HerdChek* Swine Salmonella Antibody ELISA‡: Detects antibodies against the most common serotypes (B, C1, D) isolated in Europe, Asia and America; 5 plates (strips), 30 plates (solid); serum, plasma or meat juice samples; rapid testing method—short (<two hours) and overnight protocols; results available as S/P and OD% values using IDEXX xChek* software Salmonellosis is one of the most important zoonotic diseases. The major factor in the success of Salmonella spp as virtually universal pathogens is their ability to adapt to almost any kind of host. Salmonella-contaminated food products are a major source of human infection. Control programs based on serological monitoring and isolation of Salmonella aim not only toward the reduction of infection prevalence, but also could serve as valuable tools to change routines to decrease food contamination. The great majority of clinical disease in swine is caused by S. cholerasuis in the U.S. and by S. typhimurium in Europe. S. typhimurium is mostly a latent disease in pigs, and causes diseases only in conjunction with other cofactors. The primary host and main reservoir of S. cholerasuis is swine. While infections with S. cholerasuis can cause severe clinical disease in swine, it is of minor importance in food safety. Human infections with S. cholerasuis are rare due to a limited number of infected swine at the abattoir. Swine Test Kits The HerdChek* Swine Salmonella Antibody Test Kit allows rapid screening for the presence of antibodies to a broad range of Salmonella serogroups, indicating exposure of the swine herd to the bacteria. Since serological screening is easy to run in large scale, it is useful for estimating the herd prevalence. ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 3-8 Bovine Leukemia Virus/Enzootic Bovine Leukosis (BLV/EBL) Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) Brucella abortus (B. abortus) (Bovine, Ovine) Brucella ovis (B. ovis) Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Virus/Maedi-Visna Virus (CAEV/MVV) (Caprine, Ovine) Chlamydia (Bovine, Caprine, Ovine) Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) (Bovine, Ovine) Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)/ Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) Mycobacterium paratuberculosis (M. pt.)—Johne’s disease (Bovine, Ovine) Neospora caninum (Bovine, Caprine, Ovine) Q Fever (Bovine, Caprine, Ovine) Toxotest (Toxoplasma gondii) (Caprine, Ovine) Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs) Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy-Scrapie (BSE-Scrapie) (Bovine, Caprine, Ovine) Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) (Cervid) Ruminants RuminantsTest Test Kits Kits Ruminants Test Kits BLV/EBL Bovine Leukemia Virus/Enzootic Bovine Leukosis Antibody Test Kits HerdChek* BLV Screen/Verification Antibody elisa: 5 screen/1 verification plate (strips), serum or plasma samples, results in less than three hours with optional overnight protocol, indirect format HerdChek* BLV Verification elisa: 6 verification plates (strips), serum samples CHEKIT* Leukotest Screening Milk Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (solid), milk samples (individual or pool up to 250), short or overnight protocol, monophasic kit, results in less than three hours with optional overnight protocol, indirect format Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a retrovirus that may cause lymphosarcoma in cattle. The virus resides in blood lymphocytes where circulating antibodies are unable to neutralize it. Therefore, once an animal is infected with BLV, it is infected for life. BLV is economically significant to the producer because of premature culling or death as a result of lymphosarcoma. Another concern is the condemnation of carcasses at slaughter, which has a significant economic impact on the dairy and cattle industries. Losses from export restrictions are another economic concern of BLV infection. Countries that have bovine leukosis control programs require BLV-free certification prior to shipping cattle to their regions. Moreover, exporters of semen are under increasing pressure to ensure that their product is from a BLVfree animal in a BLV-free herd. CHEKIT* Leukotest Verification Milk Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (solid), milk samples (individual or pool up to 250), biphasic kit CHEKIT* Leucose Serum Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (strips), serum or plasma samples, monophasic kit Ruminants Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-1 BVDV Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Test Kits HerdChek* BVDV Antibody ELISA‡: 5 plates (strips); serum, plasma or milk samples; overnight protocol with optional two-hour assay; indirect format HerdChek* BVDV Antigen ELISA— Leukocyte‡: 5 plates (strips); leukocytes, tissues, nasal swabs; antigen-capture format; overnight protocol with optional three-hour assay HerdChek* BVDV Antigen ELISA— Serum Plus‡: 2 plates (strips) or 5 plates (strips and solid); serum, plasma, whole blood and ear-notch tissue samples; antigen-capture format; overnight protocol with optional two-hour assay Ruminants Test Kits HerdChek* BVDV Antigen ELISA— Ear-Notch and Serum†: 5 plates (strips), serum and ear-notch tissue samples, antigen-capture format, results in less than four hours Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), border disease virus (BDV) and hog cholera virus (classical swine fever virus, CSFV) are the three member viruses of the genus Pestivirus within the family Flaviviridae. BVDV is one of the most important pathogenic viruses in cattle, causing considerable losses in the dairy and beef industries. The virus crosses the placenta in infected pregnant cows, causing reproductive losses due to abortions, stillborn calves or calves that die early in life. Some calves that survive are immunotolerant to the virus and may excrete large amounts of virus, infecting other animals in the herd. The carrier animals often die of mucosal disease in the first two years of life. Persistently infected virus shedders can be detected using the BVDV antigen ELISA. Testing for antibodies to BVDV is a useful tool for herd-screening for BVDV prevalence and for monitoring BVDV-free herd status. ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. † Available for sale in U.S. and Canada only 4-2 B. abortus Brucella abortus Antibody Test Kits HerdChek* B. abortus Antibody PCFIA: 10,560 tests per kit, serum samples, recognized as an official test in the U.S. (bovine) Brucellosis in cattle is a disease caused by Brucella abortus (B. abortus), a facultative, intracellular bacterium. The major mode of disease transmission is ingestion of B. abortus organisms that may be present in tissues of aborted fetuses, fetal membranes and uterine fluids. In addition, infection may occur as the result of cattle ingesting B. abortuscontaminated feed or water. Infection in cows has also occurred through venereal transmission of the organism by infected bulls. CHEKIT* Brucellose Serum Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (strips), serum and plasma samples (individual or pool up to 10), short and overnight protocols (bovine, ovine) Abortion is the outstanding clinical feature of the disease. If the carrier state develops in a majority of infected cows in a herd, the clinical manifestations may be reduced milk production, dead calves at term and a higher frequency of retained placentas. Disease in the bull may produce infections of the seminal vesicles and testicles, resulting in shedding of the organisms in semen. ▲ CHEKIT* Brucellose Milk Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (solid), milk samples (individual or pool up to 250), short and overnight protocols (bovine) Diagnosis is based on serological (serum/milk) and bacteriological procedures. While a positive bacteriological finding is the most definitive diagnosis, several weeks may be required to obtain final culture results. The success of disease eradication is dependent upon rapid and accurate identification. The CHEKIT B. abortus Test Kit includes chemical reagents (wash, substrate, stop solutions) that can also be used with CHEKIT kits that test for other abortive diseases (Q fever, neosporosis, toxoplasmosis, Chlamydia). Ruminants RuminantsTest Test Kits Kits Available for sale outside the U.S. ‡ 4-3 B. ovis Brucella ovis Antibody Test Kit ▲ CHEKIT* Brucella ovis Antibody ELISA: 2 plates (strips), serum and plasma samples of sheep, short protocol (60 minutes at 37°C), ready-to-use reagents Ovine brucellosis is caused by a bacterium called Brucella ovis (B. ovis). All breeds of sheep are susceptible to brucellosis, which may cause considerable economic loss due to increased culling of rams, reduced lamb marking percentages and extended lambing seasons. The disease produces inflammation of the epididymis in rams and of the placenta in pregnant ewes. Ovine brucellosis has been recorded in sheep from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, South Africa and Europe. The infection of pregnant ewes leads to abortion and neonatal lamb deaths due to microscopic and macroscopic changes occurring in the placenta and fetus. Infection does not persist in nonpregnant ewes, but may persist for several months in pregnant ewes. This characteristic has an impact in the control of the disease. In many countries, the routine use of vaccines against brucellosis is no longer allowed. Brucellosis eradication programs are now based exclusively on the serological screening of sheep and cattle herds to detect and remove infected animals. The CHEKIT* Brucella ovis ELISA provides a rapid, simple, sensitive and specific method for detecting antibodies against Brucella ovis in serum and plasma of sheep. Ruminants Test Kits The CHEKIT Brucella ovis Test Kit includes chemical reagents (wash, substrate, stop solutions) that can also be used with CHEKIT kits that test for other abortive diseases (B. abortus, neosporosis, toxoplasmosis, Chlamydia). 4-4 CAEV/MVV Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Virus/ Maedi-Visna Virus Antibody ELISA Test Kits CHEKIT* CAEV/MVV Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates (strips), serum and milk confirmation, ready-to-use reagents (caprine, ovine) CHEKIT* CAEV/MVV Antibody ELISA‡: 2- and 10-plate (strips) screening of serum, plasma and milk samples of goats and sheep; monophasic kit; short protocol (caprine, ovine) Maedi-visna virus (MVV) infection of sheep is characterized by slowly progressive arthritis, pneumonia, mastitis and encephalomyelitis. The causative agent of the disease is a virus classified as lentivirus, a subgroup of retroviruses. MVV infection is spread all over the world in many countries. This classification also includes caprine arthritis encephalitis virus (CAEV), which manifests itself in adult goats mainly in the form of severe arthritis of the carpal joint (“big knee”). Animals with CAEV become emaciated despite an intact appetite, and show poor milk yield. Serologic surveys show that CAEV is widely disseminated in goat herds on different continents. By far, the most important source of infection, however, is the milk of positive animals. In fact, if the kids are fed with communal milk from the herd, all the kids can be infected by just a single positive goat. An effective vaccination does not exist. For this reason, eradication programs are based on colostrum deprivation, separation and serological detection of infected animals. Specific antibodies in serum for both diseases can be measured by the same ELISA. Ruminants Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-5 Chlamydia Chlamydiophila abortus Antibody ELISA Test Kit CHEKIT* Chlamydia Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates (strips), serum and plasma samples of ruminants, results within 2.5 hours, adapted to automation (bovine, caprine, ovine) Chlamydiophila abortus is known as the responsible agent for abortion, fertility problems, broncopneumonia and clinically inapparent infections in cattle and sheep populations. Chlamydiophila-infected animals show no clinical illness prior to abortion. Pathogenesis commences when chlamydial invasion of placentomes produces a progressively diffuse inflammatory response and tissue necrosis. Some animals may shed Chlamydiophila spp in vaginal fluids for more than two weeks before abortion and up to more than two weeks after abortion. This may explain the higher incidence of abortion in newly infected herds, since the susceptibility to infection varies in relation to the physiological status of the animal. The success of eradication and surveillance programs depends on the quality and the effectiveness of available diagnostic tools. The isolation of the microorganism is difficult and the diagnosis is mainly based on serological methods as agent isolation remains a difficult and timeconsuming task. For this reason, the ELISA is easy to implement, and the analysis of small numbers of samples, as well as largescale screening, is facilitated with this method. Ruminants Test Kits The CHEKIT Chlamydia Test Kit includes chemical reagents (wash, substrate, stop solutions) that can also be used with CHEKIT kits that test for other abortive diseases (B. abortus, neosporosis, toxoplasmosis, Q fever). ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-6 FMD Foot-and-Mouth Disease 3ABC Antibody ELISA Test Kit CHEKIT* FMD Antibody ELISA‡: 5 plates (strips), specific to screening serum or plasma samples, differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA) (bovine, ovine) Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread rapidly and affects both domesticated and wild ruminants, as well as pigs. FMD has an economically devastating impact on affected countries because trade barriers are imposed in countries where the disease occurs. The FMDV genome encodes a single polyprotein that is cleaved during the translation. Mature structural and nonstructural viral protein derive after a cascade of further cleavages by viral proteases. Vaccine produced according to the guidelines of the OIE are depleted of nonstructural proteins like 3ABC during purification steps. Antibody to 3ABC is generally accepted as the most reliable single indicator for viral replication. Detection of anti-3ABC antibodies has been described upon challenge in animals with and without previous vaccination, confirming the potential of 3ABC as a marker for the surveillance of vaccinated populations. Ruminants Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-7 IBR/BHV-1 Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) is a highly contagious, infectious disease that is caused by bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1). In addition to causing respiratory disease, this virus can cause conjunctivitis, abortions, encephalitis and generalized systemic infections. Although clinical findings may be highly suggestive of IBR, no real pathognomonic signs provide a clinical diagnosis for IBR. Therefore, laboratory confirmation is necessary to identify BHV-1 infection. Confirmation of exposure to BHV-1 is facilitated by measurement of antibody in serum, plasma or milk. Countries that have IBR control programs require IBR-free certification prior to shipping cattle to their regions. ELISA is the test procedure of choice in many European IBR programs. Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)/ Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) gE Antibody ELISA Test Kit HerdChek* IBR gE Antibody ELISA‡: 6 plates (strips) or 30 plates (solid); serum, plasma or milk samples; blocking format; overnight sample incubation; differentiates infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA) with BHV-1 gE-deleted vaccines The HerdChek* IBR gE Test Kit is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) that can be an effective differential test distinguishing naturally infected from vaccinated cattle when used in IBR control programs together with gE-deleted IBR vaccines. Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)/Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) gB Antibody ELISA Test Kit HerdChek* IBR gB Antibody ELISA‡: 5 plates (strips) or 30 plates (solid); serum, plasma or milk samples; blocking format; results in less than four hours; optional overnight protocol The HerdChek* IBR gB Test Kit is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of glycoprotein-B-specific antibodies to bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) in bovine samples using IBR gB-specific monoclonal antibodies. Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)/ Bovine Herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) Antibody ELISA Test Kits Ruminants Test Kits CHEKIT* Trachitest Serum Screening Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (strips and solid), serum or plasma samples (individual or pool of up to 10), short and overnight protocols, monophasic format The CHEKIT*-Trachitest Serum and CHEKIT* BHV1 Bulk Milk enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test kits provide a rapid, simple, sensitive and specific method for detecting antibodies against bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1). CHEKIT* Trachitest Serum Verification Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (strips and solid), serum or plasma samples (individual or pool of up to 10), short and overnight protocols, biphasic format CHEKIT* BHV1 Bulk Milk Antibody ELISA‡: 10 plates (strips and solid), milk (individual or pool of up to 50), overnight protocol 4-8 ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. M. pt. Mycobacterium paratuberculosis Antibody ELISA Test Kits HerdChek* M. pt. Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates (strips), 5 plates (solid), serum or plasma samples, indirect format, results in less than three hours (bovine, caprine, ovine) HerdChek* M. pt. Antibody ELISA: 5 plates (strips), serum or plasma samples, indirect format, results in less than three hours (bovine) Johne’s disease is a chronic, debilitating enteritis of cattle and other ruminants caused by the organism Mycobacterium paratuberculosis (M. pt.). Every year, Johne’s disease costs the dairy and livestock industries millions of dollars. Animals may carry the disease for months or years without showing clinical signs. This slow progression of the disease may reduce milk production and compromise the health of other animals in the herd, which may lead to further financial loss. Implementing a testing and management program may have significant cost savings when compared with the potential revenue lost if an infected herd is not effectively managed. Ruminants Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-9 Neospora Neospora caninum Antibody ELISA Test Kits HerdChek* Neospora caninum Antibody ELISA: 2 plates (strips), serum samples, indirect format, results in less than two hours (bovine) CHEKIT* Neospora caninum Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates (strips), serum or plasma samples, short protocol, ready-to-use reagents (bovine, caprine, ovine) Neospora caninum is a protozoal (Apicomplexan) parasite that has been described to cause abortion and neonatal morbidity in cattle, sheep, goats and horses. It has been reported as one of the most important causes of abortion in dairy cattle. The dog has been identified as the definitive host. Primary transmission is through congenital infections and the spread of Neospora oocysts. Use of ELISA testing allows herd veterinarians to assess infection or exposure status and monitor immune status in Neospora caninum-vaccinated herds. Ruminants Test Kits The CHEKIT Neospora Test Kit includes chemical reagents (wash, substrate, stop solutions) that can also be used with CHEKIT kits that test for other abortive diseases (B. abortus, Q fever, toxoplasmosis, Chlamydia). ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-10 Q Fever Q Fever Antibody ELISA Test Kit CHEKIT* Q Fever Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates (strips), serum and plasma samples of ruminants, results within 2.5 hours, adapted to automation (bovine, caprine, ovine) C. burnetii has a worldwide occurrence with an increased prevalence in countries with dense cattle, sheep and goat populations. There are two independent infection cycles: wildlife and domestic, via ticks. The animal infection, also called coxiellosis, is characterized by a subclinical phase with a relatively rare and sudden epidemic appearance of abortion. Use of ELISA testing allows for the serological diagnosis of Q fever by detecting C. burnetii-specific antibodies. In fact, due to ease and rapidity, ELISA tests have become the major techniques applied for herd monitoring on a routine basis. The CHEKIT Q Fever Test Kit includes chemical reagents (wash, substrate, stop solutions) that can also be used with CHEKIT kits that test for other abortive diseases (B. abortus, neosporosis, toxoplasmosis, Chlamydia). Ruminants Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-11 Toxotest Toxoplasma gondii Antibody ELISA Test Kit CHEKIT* Toxotest Antibody ELISA‡: 2 plates (strips), serum and plasma samples of ruminants, results within 2.5 hours, adapted to automation, common incubation times, ready-to-use conjugate (caprine, ovine) Toxoplasma gondii is an intestinal coccidium that parasitizes members of the cat family as definitive hosts and has a wide range of intermediate hosts. In most cases, infection is asymptomatic, but devastating disease can occur. Cats—definitive hosts—are infected by eating rodents— intermediate hosts. Oocysts are spread in the feces. If the oocysts are ingested by intermediate host mammals, such as rodents, they develop in the digestive tract. It is here that they are engulfed by macrophages. Within the macrophage, tachyzoites develop and travel to various parts of the body (liver, brain, heart, spleen) via the bloodstream. The intermediate host may be eaten by a predator, such as a cat. In addition to public health problems, this zoonosis is a frequent cause of abortions in sheep and goat herds. Ruminants Test Kits The CHEKIT Toxotest Kit includes chemical reagents (wash, substrate, stop solutions) that can also be used with CHEKIT kits that test for other abortive diseases (B. abortus, neosporosis, Q fever, Chlamydia). ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-12 TSEs Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), chronic wasting disease (CWD) and scrapie belong to the family of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Clinically affected animals exhibit ataxia and excessive salivation, along with other behavioral disturbances. These animals show a progressive loss of physical condition that precedes death. The modes of transmission and the causative agents of TSEs are poorly understood. The disease is characterized by accumulation of a proteinase K-resistant form of the prion protein (PrPSc) in the medulla oblongata (obex) region of the brain, as well as other tissues (lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, etc.). Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy Antigen Test Kit HerdChek* BSE Antigen EIA: 5 plates (strips), obex samples, very simple sample preparation and EIA protocol—no proteinase K digestion, less equipment required, all room-temperature, less hands-on time, results in 2.5 hours The IDEXX BSE test kit is an antigen-capture enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for the detection of the abnormal conformer of the prion protein (PrPSc) in bovine postmortem tissues. Bovine Spongiform EncephalopathyScrapie Antigen Test Kit HerdChek* BSE-Scrapie Antigen EIA‡: 5 plates (strips); obex, spleen and lymph node samples; very simple sample preparation and EIA protocol—no proteinase K digestion, less equipment required, all room-temperature, less hands-on time, results in 2.5 hours HerdChek* CWD Antigen EIA: 5 plates (strips), retropharyngeal lymph node tissue samples, very simple sample preparation and EIA protocol—no proteinase K digestion, less equipment required, all room-temperature, less hands-on time, results in less than 3.5 hours The IDEXX BSE-Scrapie Test Kit is an antigen-capture enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for the detection of the abnormal conformer of the prion protein (PrPSc) in bovine, caprine and ovine postmortem tissues. Chronic Wasting Disease Antigen Test Kit The IDEXX CWD Test Kit is an antigen-capture enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for the detection of the abnormal conformer of the prion protein (PrPSc) in postmortem white-tailed and mule deer retropharyngeal lymph node tissue. Additional species elk claim is in the late stages of development. Ruminants Test Kits ‡ Available for sale outside the U.S. 4-13 Ruminants Test Kits Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA AGID, EIA cELISA) Ruminants EquineTest Test Kits Kits Equine Test Kits EIA Equine Infectious Anemia Antibody Test Kits EIA Antibody Agar Gel Immunodiffusion (AGID): 180 tests; serum samples; 24-hour assay read time; bright, clean lines for easy reading; virtually no nonspecific lines, leading to high specificity EIA Antibody cELISA: 92 tests, serum samples, competitive ELISA format, 45-minute assay time, visual test interpretation with optional spectrophotometric results Equine infectious anemia (EIA) virus causes a persistent infection in horses, resulting in periodic episodes of fever, anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia and weight loss. The virus may be transferred in utero or horizontally by biting flies, contaminated needles or mother’s milk. Once a horse is infected with EIA, it will test positive for antibody to the virus in serological tests and remain infected for life. Equine Test Kits 5-1 Equine Test Kits xChek* Software Ruminants xChek*Test Software Kits xChek* Software xChek * An Invaluable Tool for Managing Data Requirements: Microsoft* Windows* 95 (or later), 32 MB of RAM (64 MB recommended), 30 MB of available hard-disk space (100 MB recommended), CD-ROM drive, VGA or compatible display monitor, Microsoft* Windows*-compatible printer Software Features: User-friendly interface, extensive database merging options, quick and easy report e-mailing capabilities, numerous reports for flock and herd profiling, reliable baselines for preventive medicine Developed in 1996, IDEXX xChek* software was the first Microsoft* Windows*-based software for ELISA result interpretation in the poultry and livestock industries. Built on the strong foundation of its predecessors, the FlockChek* and HerdChek* software programs, the xChek* program allows rapid input and reporting of individual and population-based data. It is a comprehensive, user-friendly diagnostic tool for the interpretation and management of data pertaining to the health of flock and herd animals. xChek* software is widely used in private, public and government sectors. On a daily basis, veterinarians, laboratory personnel, production managers, farmers and field service employees around the world use xChek* to monitor the health of production animals. xChek* data can be shared between users by hard-copy printouts and through database export. The xChek* software collects, organizes and reports pointin-time ELISA information that can be stored, analyzed and evaluated to determine immediate implications on the flock or herd health status. Supporting information on animals, owners and other testing methods performed can also be stored to assist with data interpretation. xChek* reports can be used for historical information look-up and trend analysis, resulting in reliable baselines for monitoring and preventive medicine programs. xChek* can search quickly through large amounts of information and organize it into easy-to-use formats. xChek* offers several reports that can be customized to meet the individual user’s needs. If ELISA information needs to be combined with other diagnostic information, xChek* can export Microsoft* Excel and text files in predefined or userdefined formats. xChek* Software 6-1 xChek* Software Introduction 7-1 ELISA Technology 7-2 ELISA Kits 7-3 ELISA Equipment 7-5 Equipment Maintenance and Calibration 7-6 Reagent Handling and Preparation 7-7 Handling and Preparing Kit Components 7-8 Quality Control 7-9 Sample Handling 7-10 Pipetting Methods 7-12 ELISA Plate Timing 7-15 ELISA Plate Washing 7-16 Reading Plates and Data Management 7-18 ELISA Troubleshooting 7-19 Appendices A: Gravimetric Pipette Calibration Procedure B: FlockChek* and HerdChek* Inventory Control Tracking Chart 7-23 7-24 C: Laboratory Tracking Chart 7-25 D: Maintenance and Calibration Schedule 7-26 E: Quality Control Quick Check 7-27 ELISA Technical Guide ELISA Technical Guide ELISA Introduction IDEXX Laboratories manufactures diagnostic test kits for the detection of diseases in ruminants, horses, swine and poultry. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is one of the most sensitive and reproducible technologies available. These assays are rapid, simple to perform and easily automated. IDEXX introduced the first commercial poultry ELISA for infectious bursal disease (IBD) in 1985 and the first commercial livestock ELISA for Aujeszky’s disease/pseudorabies in 1986, enhancing the way laboratories test production animals today. As with any assay, the reproducibility and reliability of ELISAs are dependent upon proper technique and attention to detail. This ELISA technical guide will increase your awareness of ELISA techniques and help you maintain proficiency with this methodology. Check your package insert for specific instructions for each assay you perform. Periodically, improvements and revisions are made to kit and package inserts. Therefore, it is important to review the protocol on a regular basis. If you have questions concerning any of the following information, call IDEXX Technical Services for assistance. Within the United States, call 1-800-548-9997 or 1-800-943-3999. Outside of the United States, call 1-207-856-0895 and select the Production Animal Services Technical Support option. Or visit our Web site at www.idexx.com/production/contact/ contactpas.jsp. ELISA Technical Guide 7-1 ELISA ELISA Technology ELISA formats provide the ability to: • Test a large number of samples at the same time • Automate the procedure using robotics or other types of automated equipment • Computerize the calculation and reporting of results The ELISA is a rapid test used for detecting and quantifying antibodies or antigens against viruses, bacteria and other materials. This method can be used to detect many infectious agents affecting poultry and livestock. In ELISA technology, the solid phase consists of a 96-well polystyrene plate, although other materials can be used. The function of the solid phase is to immobilize either antigens or antibodies in the sample, as they bind to the solid phase. After incubation, the plates are washed to remove any unbound material. Conjugate is then added to the plate and allowed to incubate. The conjugate consists of either an antigen or antibody that has been labeled with an enzyme. Depending upon the assay format, the immunologically reactive portion of the conjugate binds with either the solid phase or the sample. The enzyme portion of the conjugate enables detection. The plates are washed again and an enzyme substrate (hydrogen peroxide and a chromogen) is added and allowed to incubate. Color develops in the presence of bound enzyme and the optical density is read with an ELISA plate reader. ELISA Formats ELISAs are divided into three main formats—indirect, blocking (competitive) and antigen-capture (direct). ELISA Technical Guide Indirect Format In the indirect format, the sample antibody is sandwiched between the antigen coated on the plate and an enzyme-labeled, anti-species globulin conjugate. The addition of an enzyme substrate-chromogen reagent causes color to develop. This color is directly proportional to the amount of bound sample antibody. The more antibody present in the sample, the stronger the color development in the test wells. This format is suitable for determining total antibody level in samples (Newcastle disease virus, B. abortus, etc.). Indirect ELISA 7-2 ELISA Blocking (Competitive) Format In this format, the specific sample antibodies compete with, or block, the enzyme-labeled, specific antibody in the conjugate. The addition of an enzyme substrate-chromogen reagent causes color to develop. This color is inversely proportional to the amount of bound sample antibody. The more antibodies present in the sample, the less color development in the test wells (CAV, CSFV Ab, etc.). Blocking ELISA Antigen-Capture (Direct) Format In the antigen-capture format, the antigen in the sample is sandwiched between antibodies coated on the plate and an enzyme-labeled conjugate. The antibody conjugate can be either monoclonal or polyclonal. The addition of an enzyme substrate-chromogen reagent causes color to develop. This color is directly proportional to the amount of the target antigen present in the sample (CSFV Ag, LLAg, etc.). ELISA Kits NOTE: Do not mix or use components from different kit lot numbers. 7-3 ELISA Technical Guide An ELISA kit is a set of standardized reagents and microwell plates manufactured for a specific test. IDEXX ELISA kits may contain some or all of the following components: coated plates (solid and/or strip plates), sample diluent, controls, wash concentrate, conjugate, substrate and stop solution. The kits are manufactured in batches or lots. Each component of each kit lot is optimized and manufactured to work as a unit. The kits pass many quality-control tests conducted by IDEXX, numerous worldwide reference laboratories, and/or the USDA before they are approved and released for sale. ELISA ELISA Kits continued IDEXX kits are manufactured in batches or lots according to strict quality standards. Each component or reagent in a kit lot is optimized to work with the other reagents contained in the kit. This includes measurements of sensitivity, specificity and repeatability. Therefore, it is very important not to mix reagents from different kit lots. Coated Plates The 96-well plates are made of polystyrene and coated with either inactivated antigen or antibody. This coating is the binding site for the antibodies or antigens in the sample. Unbound antibodies or antigens in the sample are washed away after incubation. For some assays, normal host cell (NHC) antigens and pathogen-specific antigens are coated in alternating rows or columns. The NHC antigens are used to assess whether antibodies against tissue culture components present in vaccines are contributing to sample reactions. When using these plates, each sample is added to both a sample well and an NHC well. Sample Diluent Most assays require a specific dilution of the sample. Samples are added to the sample diluent and mixed prior to putting them onto the coated plates. Controls The positive control is a solution that contains antibody or antigen. The negative control is a solution without antibody or antigen. The controls help to normalize or standardize each plate. Controls are also used to validate the assay and to calculate sample results. In most kits, the controls are prediluted and ready to use. Be sure to follow the instructions in the package insert. Conjugate All kit components have an expiration date. ELISA conjugates are enzyme-labeled antibodies or antigens that react specifically to plate-bound sample analytes. Unbound conjugate is washed away after incubation and before the addition of substrate. The optical density of the colorimetric substrate is directly proportional to the quantity of bound enzyme present. Substrate For peroxidase conjugates, the substrate is a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and a chromogen that reacts with the enzyme portion of the conjugate to produce color. Wash Concentrate The wash concentrate is a buffered solution containing detergent used to wash away unbound materials from the plates. ELISA Technical Guide Stop Solution The stop solution stops the enzyme-substrate reaction and, thereby, the color development. 7-4 ELISA ELISA Equipment There is a large selection of equipment available. When purchasing a plate reader, call IDEXX Technical Services to make sure the xChek* software has the proper interface. Equipment for ELISA testing is widely available. Readers, washers and pipettes are available as manual or automated systems. Some of the factors affecting equipment selection are the number and types of tests and samples, technical training of staff, and financial considerations. Below is a brief outline of some equipment available for performing ELISA testing. Pipettes • Single-channel, fixed-volume and adjustable-volume (1–20 µL, 10–100 µL, 20–200 µL, etc.) • Multichannel, 8- and 12-channels • Semi-automated dispensing units • Fully automated systems that can process multiple plates Multichannel pipette and single-channel pipette Dilutors • Single-channel • Multichannel • Automated dispensing units Washer Systems • Manual systems that wash one row or column at a time • Semi-automated systems that handle one strip or plate at a time • Fully automated systems that can process multiple plates Semi-automated wash system ELISA Plate Readers • Manual readers that read one row or well at a time • Semi-automated readers that read one plate at a time • Fully automated systems that can process multiple plates simultaneously Other • Humidity chamber (not required for all ELISA tests) • Plate sealers for assays that have long incubation times (to avoid evaporation) Manual wash system ELISA Technical Guide Plate reader 7-5 ELISA Equipment Maintenance and Calibration Be sure to label your pipettes with the calibration date and keep a log for the calibration and maintenance of all your equipment. The maintenance and calibration of your laboratory equipment is extremely important in obtaining accurate and reproducible results. The Maintenance and Calibration Schedule (Appendix D) should be used as a guideline. Adjust maintenance routines according to the amount of daily testing performed in your laboratory. Always refer to your equipment manufacturer’s guide for their recommendations. Calibration Protocols Equipment always needs to be in proper calibration. Equipment that is out of calibration can produce false or inaccurate results. Refer to the Maintenance and Calibration Schedule (Appendix D) and your manufacturer’s instructions for the proper calibration protocol and required frequency. Options for Calibrating Pipettes • Perform the gravimetric method outlined in Appendix A. Pipette with calibration label • Use a commercial automated calibration system like the PCS®‚ produced by Artel. See Appendix A, Gravimetric Pipette Calibration Procedure, for more information. • Send the pipette to the manufacturer; see your owner’s manual for instructions. • Send the pipette to a pipette calibration service. Sending pipettes out for service is beneficial when repair or maintenance is necessary. However, this practice provides only a limited level of quality control, which can be increased with in-house calibration. ELISA Technical Guide Operator technique and laboratory environment are two critical variables that determine how a pipette will perform when used on your bench top. A thorough quality-control program must include a quantitative account of these effects. It is beneficial to have a method in place that allows you to perform regular, routine performance verifications on your own pipettes. By doing so, you will be able to track pipettes that are drifting out of tolerance. When this happens, the failing pipette should be sent out for corrective maintenance or repair by a qualified service before it compromises your laboratory data and productivity. 7-6 ELISA Reagent Handling and Preparation Receiving Kits When you receive your ELISA kits, record the date on your Inventory Control Tracking Chart (Appendix B) and on the kit boxes. Inspect them for damage and store them at 2°–7°C. When using kits from your inventory, use the firstin-first-out (FIFO) method. In other words, use the kits that are the oldest (or will expire) first. Individual kit components may have longer expiration dates than the actual date on the outer kit box. However, you should go by the expiration date on the outer label of the kit. If you do not use an entire kit, mark the date it is opened and each time it is used thereafter. This way, you can keep track of how many times it moves or cycles from the refrigerator to room temperature. Keep the number of cycles to a minimum by batching (or accumulating) samples into larger groups whenever possible. Label your kit with the date it was received. The contamination of reagents may compromise your test results. Labeling your reagent reservoirs and using a separate one for each reagent will help minimize the risk. Labeled reservoirs General Reagent Handling Be sure to check your package insert for guidelines on handling and preparing reagents. Some test kits recommend that all reagents and plates be brought to room temperature (18°–25°C) prior to use; others indicate that only specific reagents be brought to room temperature. When you need to bring a kit to room temperature (18°–25°C), take it out of the refrigerator and take the kit components out of the kit box at least 2–3 hours before beginning the assay. Measure all reagents using sterile or clean vessels. Be careful to measure only what is needed for the number of plates being run. This will help to maintain the integrity of the reagents. Do not return reagents to the original stock bottles. We strongly recommend using disposable pipettes and reservoirs when handling reagents to minimize the risk of contamination. However, if you choose to reuse any disposable device, use a separate reservoir for each reagent and be sure to label them. Also, wash and thoroughly rinse the wells with deionized or distilled water after each use. Change and discard the disposable reservoirs as frequently as possible. Never use the same reservoir for conjugate and substrate, even if it has been washed. ELISA Technical Guide 7-7 ELISA Handling and Preparing Kit Components Refer to the package insert for specific details on the kit you are using. Do not exchange components between kit lot numbers, even if kits are of similar type. Test results may be severely and adversely affected. Plates Most assay plates are provided in resealable bags that include a desiccant. In some kits, the plates are packaged individually. When opening a bag that contains several plates, remove only the number of plates you need, reseal the bag and return it to the refrigerator for storage. If possible, the plates that were taken from the original bag should be stored in another bag with desiccants in it. If a partial plate is used, aspirate all the liquid from the used wells and cover them with sealing tape. Place several desiccants in the bag. Be sure to mark the plate accordingly and store it separately from unused assay plates. Some kits have the plates formatted into strips. We recommend labeling each strip before use to prevent confusion. Sample Diluent and Wash Concentrate Make sure the sample diluent and wash concentrate have come to room temperature (18°–25°C) before use. These are usually the largest bottles in a kit and require the most time to equilibrate. If the wash concentrate still shows crystal formation after reaching room temperature, mix it by inverting it several times. Controls Seal, label and store partially used plates in a bag with desiccant. Most kits are formulated with prediluted controls. However, some require that you dilute them in the same manner as your sample. Controls should be added to the plate in the same method and at the same time as the samples. Conjugate If the kit requires you to prepare a “working” conjugate solution, be sure to follow the instructions closely. Prepare only what you immediately need, and do not save leftover solution for future use. If conjugates are contaminated or improperly stored, they may lose enzymatic activity or may have an apparent increase in background. Most kits supply a ready-to-use conjugate. Substrate Our ELISA test kits include a ready-to-use substrate. The chemical activity of the substrate will be compromised if it is exposed to light or comes into contact with metal. Protect this solution by storing it in a dark container until ready for use. Stop Solution ELISA Technical Guide Be sure to use the stop solution included in the kit. Follow any safety precautions in the package insert. The stop solution should be at room temperature before use. If the stop solution shows crystal formation after reaching room temperature, mix it by inverting several times. The stop solution may crystalize at lower temperatures. Before use, make sure that it is completely dissolved and appears clear. 7-8 ELISA Quality Control In-House Controls We recommend using in-house assay controls to monitor your ELISA techniques and kit performance over time. Tracking chart for controls Because sera are generally received in small quantities, controls will need to be made by pooling samples. Collect negative and positive samples separately. When sufficient quantities of each have been collected, pool similar samples together. Mix the pooled samples thoroughly. In small quantities, perform the serial dilution of positive sera in negative serum. Assay each dilution according to standard kit protocol (same sample dilution as described in the kit package insert). Select the dilution that is most comparable to the sample-to-positive (S/P) or sample-to-negative (S/N) values that you want to monitor. Make large quantities of that dilution. Prefilter the prepared controls using a 0.45-micron filter membrane; you may then choose to filter with a 0.20-micron filter membrane (optional). Put a small amount of the freshly made in-house control (volume enough for 1–2 tests) into airtight vials, label, date and store frozen at -70°C if possible. Keep a record of this preparation in a notebook for reference. To use this control, thaw, mix and dilute it in the same manner as a routine sample. Run it on every plate next to the kit controls. Do not refreeze your in-house control. You can store it for 3–5 days at 4°C. To help troubleshoot questionable results, record and graph the laboratory temperature. Record your results on the Laboratory Tracking Chart (Appendix C) and graph them. Any variations or trends should alert you to review your technique and quality-control measures. Monitoring Temperature ELISA tests are sensitive to temperature extremes. Try to maintain a laboratory temperature of 18°–25°C. Avoid running assays under or near air vents as this may cause excessive cooling, heating and/or evaporation. Also, do not run assays in direct sunlight as this may cause excessive heat and evaporation. Cold bench tops may affect your assay and should be avoided by placing several layers of paper towels or some other insulating material under the assay plates during incubation. Laboratory temperature tracking chart Record and track the temperature during each assay. If your laboratory’s temperature fluctuates from morning to afternoon, record this on your tracking chart. If you have conditions that are difficult to control, it is a good idea to use a temperature control chamber to incubate your plates. Using ELISA plate covers will help control evaporation and accidental spills. Quality Control Check ELISA Technical Guide Use the Quality Control Quick Check (Appendix E) to troubleshoot any problems. 7-9 ELISA Sample Handling Incoming Sample Quality Sample quality can have a significant impact on final assay results. Most labs have no choice regarding the quality of incoming samples. In many cases, the sample diluent formulation compensates for variations in sample quality. Gross fungal or bacterial contamination can have adverse effects on the antibody or other protein components of a sample and may have an undesirable effect on test results. If sample quality is highly questionable, obtaining a fresh sample is strongly advised, when possible. Meat juice sample Take sample from the area indicated. Serum/Plasma Samples Serum samples with trace hemolysis (light-red color) and moderate lipemia (milky appearance) may have little or no effect on ELISA results. Avoid using samples that are heavily hemolyzed (dark-red color) or grossly lipemic. Check your package insert for information. When serum is on the clot, be careful not to aspirate any of the clotted material or blood cells. Meat Juice Samples Meat juice samples should be as clean as possible. Remove debris and lipids from the sample when pipetting. Milk Samples Whole milk samples can be used after centrifugation for 15 minutes at 2000 x g, or left overnight if refrigerated (2°–8°C). The sample intended for the assay should be drawn from below the cream layer. Egg Yolk Samples Collect samples with a clean tuberculin syringe and mix the diluted samples thoroughly by vortexing. ELISA Technical Guide Blood sample Take sample from the area indicated. Milk sample Take sample from the area indicated. 7-10 Other Sample Types Refer to your package insert for sample handling, preparation and storage of other sample types (e.g., albumin, cloacal swabs). ELISA Sample Handling continued Avoid numerous freeze-thaw cycles, as this may damage the antibodies or antigens in the sample. We recommend no more than 3–5 cycles. Storing Samples Be sure samples are properly stored. In general, serum samples should be refrigerated at 2°–7°C for no more than 3–5 days. If samples need to be stored for a longer period, they should be removed from the clot and frozen to a minimum of -20°C. Make sure all stored samples are properly labeled and sealed to prevent evaporation. Evidence of lyophilization (concentration of the sample) can be seen as crystalization and is common in self-defrosting freezers. This should be avoided because the integrity of the sample will most likely be compromised. Using Frozen Samples Frozen samples can be thawed at room temperature or in a refrigerator. All thawed samples need to be thoroughly mixed prior to dilution to ensure that the proteins are dispersed throughout the sample. Mix by gentle vortexing or inverting at least five times. Frothing or over-mixing of samples will cause denaturation of serum proteins. Light hemolysis Dark hemolysis ELISA Technical Guide Unmixed thawed sample Proteins settled on bottom of tube; mix prior to taking sample 7-11 ELISA Pipetting Methods Use standard (forward) pipetting for the preparation of sample dilutions, and reverse pipetting for the addition of diluted samples, controls and reagents. Two pipetting methods used for ELISA are standard (forward) and reverse. Not all pipettes are capable of reverse pipetting. Refer to the instructions included with your pipette for details. Use standard (forward) pipetting for the preparation of sample dilutions, and reverse pipetting for the addition of diluted samples, controls and reagents. Careful pipetting is crucial for accurate test results. Become familiar with the pipette and both methods before running actual tests. Be sure to use the correct pipette and tip (volume capacity) for the volume being transferred. Pipetting Technique 1. Draw the calibrated volume of sample into the tip. 2. Touch the side of the tube with the tip to remove the excess liquid. 3. Ensure that you have the proper volume of sample in the tip. When using a multichannel pipette, if the wells on your plate are empty, position the tips into the lower corner of each well, making contact with the plastic. If the wells on your plate contain liquid, position the tips above the liquid, making contact with the plastic. Pipetting a Sample Draw up the calibrated volume of sample into the tip. The drop on the tip needs to be removed. Touch the side of the tube with the tip to remove the excess liquid. Proper Pipetting ELISA Technical Guide Proper position to dispense reagents into empty wells using a multichannel pipette; in the lower corner of each well Proper position to dispense reagents into wells containing liquid using a multichannel pipette; above the liquid 7-12 Ensure that you have the proper volume of sample in the tip. ELISA Pipetting Methods continued Standard (Forward) Pipetting and Sample Preparation 1. Put a new tip on a single-channel pipette and make sure that it is on tight. 2. Press the plunger to the first stop. 3. Some manufacturers recommend that you prewet the tip by aspirating and expelling an amount of the sample. Check the instructions that came with your pipette. 4. Draw the calibrated volume of sample into the tip and pause for one second with the tip still in the sample. Be careful not to place the tip too deeply into the sample. 5. Touch the tip to the side of the sample container to remove any excess liquid on the outside of the tip. 6. Dispense the sample into the measured diluent by depressing the plunger past the first stop to the second stop. Be careful not to place the tip too deeply into the sample diluent. For samples less than or equal to 10 µL: After dispensing the sample into the diluent, rinse the pipette tip in the diluent by pushing the plunger down 2–3 times before ejecting the tip. 7. Mix samples with a multichannel pipette prior to dispensing samples onto the plate. You can do this by pushing the plunger down 3–6 times. 8. Eject the tip into a waste container. Reverse Pipetting Using a Multichannel Pipette 1. Put new tips on the pipette. Make sure they are on tight and straight. 2. Press the plunger past the first stop and halfway to the second stop. 3. Draw the liquid in a slow motion, being careful not to draw any air bubbles into the tips. Check for consistency of volume in the tips. 4. Touch the tips to the edge of the reagent reservoir to remove excess liquid on the outside of the tips. a. If the wells on your plate are empty, position the tips into the lower corner of each well, making contact with the plastic. Bent tips; needs to be replaced b.If the wells on your plate contain liquid, position the tips above the liquid, making contact with the plastic. 5. Slowly dispense the liquid into the wells by depressing the plunger to the first stop. Be careful not to splash liquid out of the wells, and make sure there are no drops left on the tips. 7. Eject the tips into a waste container. NOTE: Reverse pipetting uses more reagent/volume (=“dead volume”). 7-13 ELISA Technical Guide 6. To repeat, hold the plunger at the first stop and continue with step 3. ELISA Pipetting Methods continued Automated equipment uses more reagent/volume than semi-automated. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations for purging and priming your system. Automated Dilution Systems and Competitive Assays For those systems and assays using neat samples or lower dilution factors, the sample can be put directly into the wells of the coated plates. Follow the sequence below: 1. Add the diluent to the plate. 2. Add the sample into the diluent. ELISA Technical Guide 3. Mix by tapping the plate or repeating pipetting. 7-14 ELISA ELISA Plate Timing To minimize incubation time between controls and samples, rack the controls with the samples and add them to your plate using a multichannel pipette. Adding Samples and Controls Incubations for assay plates should be timed as precisely as possible. Usually the process of adding samples to the plate requires the most time. When you dispense samples onto the plate, it is critical to keep the time difference between the first and the last sample to a minimum. Use a multichannel pipette whenever possible to minimize the time interval from the start of the plate to the end. If the time interval becomes too long or you are interrupted while adding samples to the plate, put a positive control and/or your in-house control at the end of the plate and compare these results with the controls at the beginning of the plate. For tighter control over the time differentiation from when the controls and samples are added, you can put your controls in a tube that is racked in position with your samples. Then use a multichannel pipette and put the controls onto the plate at the same time you are adding the samples. Multiple Plate Runs When timing multiple plates, it is important to keep track of the time interval from the first plate to the last plate in the run. Keep your batch sizes small enough so your processes do not overlap. You do not want to be washing a plate (unless it is done by an automated washer) while another needs to have conjugate added. If possible, use a timer for every plate. ELISA Technical Guide Use several timers when incubating multiple plates. 7-15 ELISA ELISA Plate Washing After tapping out plates, check paper towels for any evidence of color. This may indicate that the plates were not washed properly and there are reagents remaining in or around the wells. Automated or Semi-Automated Systems In general, an automated or semi-automated wash system in proper working order will provide more consistent washing than manual methods. Check that all the dispensing needles are dispensing with a smooth, steady stream and that all aspiration ports aspirate uniformly. Make sure your wash system is properly cleaned and maintained. Refer to the Equipment Maintenance and Calibration section in this guide (page 7-6) and your owner’s manual for proper maintenance. The plate-washing technique should be consistent from plate to plate and from row to row within a plate. Avoid prolonged soak times unless specifically recommended in the package insert. Prepare the wash solution according to the package insert. Use only the wash solution included with, or recommended for, your kit. Aspirate reagents from the plate before dispensing the wash solution. Follow the specific recommendations in your package insert for the number of washes to use at each step of an assay. Most assays require approximately 300–350 µL per well per wash. Be careful to fill the wells above the level of the reagents. Do not allow wells to overflow. If this occurs, the test results may be invalid. Microbial growth in wash system tube; needs to be replaced Do not allow the plate to dry between plate washings and prior to the addition of reagents. After the final aspiration, tap out any remaining liquid onto several layers of paper towels. ELISA Technical Guide When testing milk, albumin, whole blood or yolk samples, take extra care to inspect the wells. Because of their protein or fat composition, these sample types are sometimes more difficult to wash from the wells and may require the maximum recommended number of wash cycles. 7-16 ELISA ELISA Plate Washing continued Manual or Semi-Manual Systems Work quickly so the time from washing the first well/row to the last is minimal. If the time is too long, the empty wells may dry out and the last wells will have a longer incubation than the first wells. Washing by multichannel pipette or wash bottles should be avoided if at all possible as this gives insufficient washing that results in high and inconsistent background. Overflowing plate; this can contaminate other wells Make sure to aspirate all the liquid from the wells by placing the aspiration needles at the bottom and in the corners of the wells. Do not scrape the surface of the plate as this will remove the antigen/antibody bound to the surface and cause inconsistent or inaccurate results. After aspiration, wells should not dry before the addition of the next reagent. After tapping out the plates, check the paper towels for any evidence of color. This may indicate that the plates were not washed properly and there are reagents remaining in or around the wells. Proper position of manual washer needles for dispensing wash solution Proper position of manual washer needles for aspirating liquid ELISA Technical Guide 7-17 ELISA Reading Plates and Data Management Reading Plates The last step in an ELISA is to read and interpret the results. For most assays, the optical density (amount of color) of the solution on the plate is read with a spectrophotometer, commonly known as a plate reader. There are many models and manufacturers of plate readers; refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for details of operation. The package insert specifies which wavelength is required for the assay. Most assays specify the absorbance reading at 450 nm or 650 nm. Most assays are optimized using a plate reader equipped with a 650-nm filter. Other filters can be used, but will result in lower optical density (OD) values. The use of 630-nm or 620-nm filters will lower the OD values of both the controls and samples, but will do so equivalently across the entire plate. The use of these alternative filters will not affect the test results. Plates should be read as soon as possible following the addition of stop solution. Absorbance readings may drift if excessive time elapses between stopping the reaction and reading the plates. Data Management ELISA Technical Guide IDEXX provides the xChek* software to assist you in the collection and management of the data from your ELISA assays. The xChek software interfaces with most common plate readers to read the plate, send the optical densities to the computer and calculate the results. An IDEXX Technical Services representative can assist you in learning more about this software. The xChek* software interfacing with the ELISA plate reader 7-18 ELISA ELISA Troubleshooting This information is intended to help you troubleshoot your ELISA procedure. If you need assistance, contact IDEXX Production Animal Services Technical Services at 1-207-856-0895, option 2; or 1-800-548-9997, option 2. NOTE: The conditions described here may not pertain to every ELISA kit because performance requirements vary for individual assays. Be sure to check your package insert for specifications. Issue: High background or excessive color development (high optical density (OD) readings) Possible Causes Poor-quality water was used to wash plates or to prepare wash solution. Substrate solution has deteriorated. There was insufficient washing or poor washer performance. Washer system had microbial contamination. Wash system contained an alternate wash formulation. Reader was malfunctioning or not blanked properly; this is a possible cause if the OD readings were high and the color was not dark. Laboratory temperature was too high or too low. Check the water quality. If it is questionable, try substituting an alternate water source, such as bottled distilled water, to wash plates or prepare the wash solution. Make sure the substrate is colorless prior to addition to the plate. Try using the highest number of washes recommended for the assay. Make sure that at least 350 µL of wash solution is dispensed per well per wash. Verify the performance of the washer system. Have the system repaired if any ports drip, dispense or aspirate poorly. Clean out microbial contamination by flushing the system with a dilute solution of bleach (10% by volume) followed by a large amount of distilled or deionized water. Prime the system with the appropriate wash solution before use. The tubing may need to be changed if the contamination is heavy. Be sure each unique wash solution is properly labeled. Prime the system thoroughly when switching between solutions. Verify the reader’s performance using a calibration plate and check the lamp alignment. Verify the blanking procedure, if applicable, and reblank. Maintain the room temperature within 18°–25°C. Avoid running assays near heat sources, in direct sunlight or under air vents. Ensure that the correct reagents were used, that working solutions were prepared correctly and that contamination has not occurred. 7-19 ELISA Technical Guide Reagents were intermixed, contaminated or prepared incorrectly. Recommended Actions ELISA ELISA Troubleshooting continued Issue: Insufficient color development (low optical density (OD) readings) Possible Causes Laboratory temperature was too low. Wash solution was prepared incorrectly or the wrong wash solution was used. Recommended Actions Maintain the room temperature within 18°–25°C. Avoid running assays under air conditioning vents or near cold windows. Be sure to use the wash solution recommended for the kit and that it is prepared correctly. Label each unique wash solution to avoid using the wrong one. Washer system had microbial contamination or contained an alternate wash formulation. Clean out microbial contamination by flushing the system with a dilute solution of bleach (10% by volume) followed by a large amount of distilled or deionized water, then prime the system with the appropriate wash solution. Be sure each unique wash solution is properly labeled. Prime the system thoroughly when switching between solutions. Too many wash cycles were used. Stay within the recommended range for the number of wash cycles. Try to use the lowest number of washes recommended for the assay. Incubation periods were too short. Follow protocol for incubation times. Time each plate separately to ensure accurate incubation periods. Reagents and plates were too cold. Make sure plates and reagents are at room temperature by taking them out of the refrigerator, and the kit components out of the kit box, at least 2–3 hours before starting the assay. Reagents were expired or intermixed from a different lot number. Verify the expiration dates and lot numbers on the reagents. Wrong conjugate was used, conjugate was prepared incorrectly or has deteriorated. Be sure that the conjugate used is the one that came with the kit and all conjugates are kit- and lot-specific. If preparation of a working conjugate is needed, be sure that the concentrate and diluent are mixed in appropriate volumes. Do not prepare the working solution too far in advance, and do not save any unused portion for future use. If no conjugate preparation is necessary, be sure to pour out only the amount required for immediate use, and do not return any unused portion to the stock bottle. Assay plate read was at wrong wavelength, or reader was malfunctioning. Verify the correct wavelength for the assay and read the plate again. Verify reader calibration and lamp alignment. Positive control was diluted (indirect format only). ELISA Technical Guide Excessive kit stress has occurred. Assay plates were compromised or previously used. 7-20 Do not dilute controls unless specified in the package insert. Check records to see how many times the kit has cycled from the refrigerator. Check to see if the kit was left out on a loading dock or other area for too long or at extreme temperatures. Be sure to refrigerate plates in sealed bags with a desiccant to maintain stability. Prevent condensation from forming on plates by allowing them to equilibrate to room temperature while in the packaging. If partial plates are used, be sure to label used wells to prevent reuse; cover them with sealing tape and use the remaining wells as soon as possible. Do not store partially used plates with other plates. Include a desiccant in the storage bag. ELISA ELISA Troubleshooting continued Issue: Replicates within a plate show poor reproducibility Possible Causes Recommended Actions Excessive time was taken to add samples, controls or reagents to the assay plate. Be sure to have all materials set up and ready to use quickly. Use a multichannel pipette to add reagents to multiple wells simultaneously. Rack controls with samples and dispense them onto the plate at the same time as the samples. Multichannel pipette was not functioning properly. Verify pipette calibration and check that tips are on tight. Be sure all channels of the pipette draw and dispense equal volumes. There was inconsistent washing or washer system malfunctioning. There was poor distribution of antibody in the sample. Verify the performance of the washer system. Have the system repaired if any ports drip or dispense/aspirate poorly. If the sample was thawed or refrigerated, make sure it was mixed prior to dilution. Diluted samples also need to be mixed prior to adding them to the plate. Issue: No color development Possible Causes Reagents were used in the wrong order or an assay step was omitted. Samples were not added to diluent (indirect format only). Wrong conjugate was used, conjugate was prepared incorrectly or has deteriorated. Recommended Actions Check the package insert for the assay protocol and repeat the assay. Verify that the samples were added to the diluent. Be sure that the conjugate used is the one that came with the kit. All conjugates are kit- and lot-specific. If preparation of a working conjugate is needed, be sure that the concentrate and diluent are mixed in correct volumes. Do not prepare the working solution too far in advance and do not save any unused portion for future use. If no conjugate preparation is necessary, be sure to pour out only the amount required for immediate use and do not return any unused portion to the stock bottle. ELISA Technical Guide 7-21 ELISA ELISA Troubleshooting continued Issue: Poor reproducibility plate to plate Possible Causes Recommended Actions Inconsistent incubation times occurred from plate to plate. Time each plate separately to ensure that plates have consistent incubation periods. Inconsistent washing occurred from plate to plate. Use the same number of washes for each plate. Verify the performance of the washer system. Have the system repaired if any ports drip or dispense or aspirate poorly. Pipette was working improperly. Kit controls and samples were at different temperatures. ELISA Technical Guide Reagents were being used from different kit lots 7-22 Check the pipette calibration. Verify that pipette tips are on tight before use and that all channels draw and dispense equal volumes. Be sure to allow sufficient time for sample diluent, samples and kit controls to come to room temperature by removing them from the kit box. Larger volumes will require longer equilibration time. If using a water bath to hasten equilibration, make sure it is maintained at room temperature; do not use a warm water bath for controls, samples or diluent. If running two different kit lots at the same time, make sure to label reagent trays, etc. so all reagents within a lot are used with the corresponding plates. ELISA Appendix A: Gravimetric Pipette Calibration Procedure For adjustable-volume pipettes, calibrations should be performed at a minimum of two settings—a low volume and a high volume at commonly used settings. Materials •Pipette •Analytical Balance •Glass Beaker •Deionized or Distilled Water •Weighing Vessel •Thermometer Procedure Automated Calibration System The ARTEL PCS® Pipette Calibration System is an automated instrument/reagent system designed to facilitate regular and frequent verification of pipette performance and operator technique. For more information call ARTEL, at 1-888-406-3463 or 1-207-854-0860, or visit their Web site at artel-usa.com. 1. To avoid erroneous results due to evaporation, we recommend humidifying the analytical balance chamber at least two hours prior to calibration. This can be achieved by placing a small, half-filled beaker of water into the chamber with all its doors closed. 2. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning and lubrication of pipettes prior to calibration. 3. The room temperature should remain constant within ±0.5°C, preferably between 18°–25°C. 4. Allow a sufficient volume of deionized or distilled water to come to room temperature and take a temperature reading. 5. Record the beginning weight of the weighing vessel or zero the balance. 6. Using a new pipette tip with each delivery, pipette water into the weighing vessel and record the weight. Repeat this step 10 times. 7. Calculate the volume dispensed for each delivery. Calculations 1. Calculate the actual volume delivered as follows: Volume = Weight of Water Density of water at 16°–21°C = 0.998 mg/µL Density of water at 22°–25°C = 0.997 mg/µL Density of Water 2. Calculate the mean (M), standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variance (CV) of the 10 volumes to determine precision of the pipette. 3. Determine the accuracy of the pipette as follows: (1-[Difference between stated and actual volume/stated volume]) x100 = % accuracy Recommended specifications 1. Precision: CV ≤5.0% 2. Accuracy: ≥95% ELISA Technical Guide Labeling Label the pipette with the calibration date, the technician’s initials, the precision and the accuracy. Also, record these data in a laboratory notebook or log for long-term storage. 7-23 Lot Number Number of Kits Received Date Received Expiration Date Comments 7-24 Appendix B: Inventory Control Tracking Chart Kit Type ELISA Technical Guide ELISA te 7-25 Ki N t Lo u m t be r Te c ELISA Technical Guide re Ro Te om m p In Co tern a n tro l l In Co tern a n tro l l In C tern o nt al ro l In C tern o nt al ro l P o Co siti v n tro e l Ne C ga o nt tive ro l Pl Nu ate m be r s *FlockChek, HerdChek and CHEKIT are trademarks or registered trademarks of IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Da n cia hn i Assay Name: tu er a Appendix C: FlockChek*, HerdChek* and CHEKIT* Laboratory Tracking Chart Comments ELISA ELISA Appendix D: Maintenance and Calibration Schedule Procedure Daily Weekly Monthly Quarterly Yearly Pipettes Clean exterior X Check calibration X Clean interior and O-rings X Dilutor Flush system with DI water X Purge system X Check calibration* X Soak syringes X Check/Change tubings Washer Flush system with DI water when using wash solutions other than DI water and when changing between wash solution types Change Check Change X Check traps, filters and foaming X Check aspiration and dispensing needles for drips and debris X Check tubes and bottles for microbial growth X Decontamination—flush system with bleach or alcohol solution* X Calibration check—Purge system X Clean exterior X Run through “clean cycle” with DI water* X Check/Change tubing ELISA Technical Guide Check Reader Calibration plate** Lamp alignment X After bulb replacement Clean optics Clean exterior X X *Refer to your manufacturer’s guide for specific instructions for your make and model. **Call IDEXX Technical Services or your reader manufacturer for recommendations on calibration plates. 7-26 ELISA Appendix E: Quality Control Quick Check Monitoring and tracking assay performance on quality-control charts provides insight as to when it is necessary to troubleshoot problems. Below is a checklist to review if you are having problems with your ELISA. If you have followed all the steps below and are still having problems with your assay, contact IDEXX Production Animal Services Technical Services at 1-207-856-0895, option 2; or 1-800-548-9997, option 2. ✔ Equipment mKeep preventive maintenance up-to-date mCalibrate and clean pipettes mCalibrate reader mSanitize and maintain wash system ✔ Reagents mMaintain inventory control—FIFO mInspect components mBring reagents to room temperature mAvoid contamination mVerify proper storage ✔ Technique mMonitor sample quality mVerify reagent preparation mVerify appropriate sample mixing mVerify proper pipetting mCheck timing—multiple plate runs mCheck washing of assay plates mUse in-house controls—track results ✔ Other ELISA Technical Guide mMonitor laboratory temperature mUse sterile disposables and reservoirs mMonitor assay performance; record in a log 7-27 ELISA Technical Guide ELISA Notes 7-28
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