Description:
Project ID: D2018-46
Background
Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB) are becoming more frequent worldwide due to factors such as temperature increase and pollution. Microcystins (MC) are carcinogenic toxins released by the algae during a blooms. MC exposure can occur via skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion and can cause illness in people and animals. MC detection and quantification in water samples is currently determined by ELISA. However, if exposure is suspected there is currently no way to confirm or aid in differential diagnosis. Therefore, there is a need for a MC diagnostic.
Invention Description
Researchers at The University of Toledo have developed a modified ELISA to detect antibodies to MC using a protein conjugated with the ADDA region of MC. Plasma from animals exposed to MC showed higher absorbance, suggesting an anti-ADDA antibody may be detectable in plasma.
Applications
- Human and public health
- Veterinary and livestock health
- Wildlife surveillance
IP Status: Patent Pending