Improved Dioxin Detection and Measurement

Abstract

Synthetic Methods and Compounds for Improved Detection of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD)

Full Description

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have invented synthetic methods and compounds useful for the improved detection of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzodioxin (TCDD) and related halogenated dibenzodioxin compounds. One improvement is the preparation of a surrogate standard for quantitative analysis. It has the advantage of decreased toxicity as compared to TCDD, and possibly increased lability in animals. The UC standard will preclude the use of more toxic standards, and might find use as an internal calibration standard for the measurement of dioxin concentrations in environmental matrices.

The second improvement relates to the use of haptens for the analysis of dioxins by ELISA. The UC researchers have identified and synthesized TCDD haptens that should result in the production of antibodies more sensitive and more selective than those currently used to detect TCDD and its analogs. In addition, the haptens may be used to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of existing antibodies. With the UC haptens, ELISA can be significantly improved as a means for detecting dioxin.