A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for rapid detection of antibodies againstTrichinella spiralisandT. britovi– one test for humans and swine

Abstract

AbstractInfection with parasites from theTrichinellagenus occurs in many vertebrates but disease only occurs in humans (trichinellosis). Humans are infected after the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from infected wild or domestic animals (usually swine or horses). Using the monoclonal antibody (mAb) 7C2C5, specific for an epitope unique to the muscle larvae of the genusTrichinella, we have developed a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA) that enables the rapid detection ofTrichinella-specific antibodies in sera originating from two different host species (human, swine) infected with eitherTrichinella spiralisorTrichinella britovi. This novel c-ELISA exhibited 100% specificity and sensitivity, as confirmed by a Western blot test. The assay is easy to use (one incubation step), and the time required for the procedure (45 min) is shorter than in any other ELISA format. This test could be useful for both the detection and surveillance ofTrichinellainfections.