Applying split TreA technology to detect antigen-specific antibodies in colostrum

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Maternal antibodies are crucial in the protection of calves against a large number of neonatal diseases. In cattle,**maternal transfer of antibodies is restricted to the uptake of colostrum in contrast to other animals that are**capable of placental transfer. Consequently, the concentrations of antibodies in colostrum is essential for the**survival and well-being of the calves. Dairy producers have a choice of testing and storing high quality**colostrum on farm or purchasing commercially available (e.g. Saskatoon Colostrum Company Ltd. (SCCL))**quality controlled freeze dried colostrum. In a previous Engage project, we validated a novel technology for**testing total IgG in colostrum and serum samples for use in SCCL's quality control lab.**To protect calves from pathogens that threaten their health, such as those associated with scours and respiratory**disease, the levels of pathogen-specific antibodies are equally important as the total amount. Currently, to**determine the range and protective levels of these pathogen-specific antibodies in colostrum, SCCL needs to**collaborate with an external lab to run ELISAs.**In this project, we will adapt the technology previously used for total IgG detection to also quantify**pathogen-specific antibodies in colostrum. This technology is based on a split enzyme fused to pathogen**specific protein antigens. It has the advantage that no rinsing steps are required and that it can be customized to**include antigens of different pathogens.**The specific objectives of this project are: 1. Incorporation of pathogen-specific antigens in our bioreagents. 2.**Improvement and assay validation on blinded panels of colostrum pretested with ELISAs.**This project will assess the feasibility of detecting pathogen-specific antibodies in colostrum with a novel**technology and it will result in tests readily available for use by SCCL. These tests will allow SCCL to use**specific antibody testing results for premium labeling of their product and give the company marketing**advantages over competitors.