Antibodies for the Detection of Toxoplasma Gondii Oocysts

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed monoclonal antibodies that recognize and bind to oocysts of Toxoplasma gondii.

Full Description

Toxoplasmosis, caused by a waterborne parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), can lead to life threating birth defects, neurologic disease and death in humans.Rates of infection by T. gondii are as high as 30% in North American and most often occur by ingesting contaminated water. Despite EPA requirements that municipalities regularly test their potable water for contaminants there is currently no test available to detect T. gondii in drinking water.

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed monoclonal antibodies that can facilitate the detection of T. gondii in water sources. The antibody specifically binds a protein on the outer wall of an intact T. gondii oocyst to form an immunocomplex. The immunocomplex can then be used with water testing methods for the parasite to monitor water quality and improve public health for consumers.

Applications

• Water quality testing for T. gondii

Features/Benefits

• Immunological reagent against T. gondii
• New tool to enhance water quality testing
• Developed testing protocol based on EPA standards
• Can be used to concentrate T. gondii

Patent Status