New Diagnostic Test Launched to combat Chlamydial Abortion in Sheep
Scientists at the Moredun Research Institute have successfully developed a new diagnostic test for Chlamydia abortus the causative agent of Ovine Enzootic Abortion (OEA).
OEA, also known as Enzootic Abortion of Ewes (EAE) or ovine chlamydiosis, is a major cause of lamb mortality across the world and accounts for 44% of diagnosed infectious abortions in UK sheep. C. abortus invades the placenta during pregnancy which can lead to abortion or the birth of weak lambs.
The new test will allow for more accurate diagnosis of the disease by offering higher specificity and sensitivity of detection in comparison to other serological tests. It works by detecting the presence of antibodies to C. abortus in blood samples from infected sheep using an indirect ELISA technique.
Launched today, this new diagnostic is being marketed to veterinary diagnostic laboratories by MV Diagnostics Ltd. The product is manufactured by Enfer Scientific.
Dr David Longbottom, the principal scientist who led the development of the test at Moredun, commented: “I am delighted that the test is now commercially available providing farmers, vets and diagnostic laboratories with access to an improved tool that allows a more accurate diagnosis of this devastating sheep disease.”
Professor Gordon Harkiss and Dr Neil Watt, directors of MV Diagnostics said: “We are very pleased to have collaborated with Moredun to bring the new test to the market supporting the diagnosis and management of OEA in sheep flocks.”
Ovine Enzootic Abortion (OEA): For further details visit www.moredun.org.uk/oea
Moredun Research Institute conducts internationally recognised research on the infectious diseases of livestock, caused by important viruses, bacteria and parasites. It employs scientists and vets that work to improve animal welfare, ensure food safety, reduce adverse impacts on the environment, and to contribute to sustainable communities through economic development across Scotland and beyond. Moredun’s research focuses on understanding the interaction of the disease pathogen with the host species, in identifying new targets for improved diagnostic tests and in development of novel vaccines for many diseases. For further details visit www.moredun.org.uk
MV Diagnostics Limited supplies high quality veterinary ELISA kits and recombinant proteins/peptides for use in clinical and research laboratories worldwide. For further details visit http://www.mvdiagnostics.co.uk/products.html
Enfer Scientific has a long history of diagnostic kit manufacture for a worldwide customer base. Kits are manufactured in a state of the art production facility operating under strictly controlled environmental conditions. For further details visit https://www.enfergroup.com
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a technique used to detect antibodies or infectious agents in a sample (e.g. blood). Antibodies are made in the body of an animal in response to infection, an antibody ELISA can indicate whether or not an animal has been in contact with a certain infectious agent. In an antibody ELISA, antigens from a specific infectious agent (e.g bacteria or virus) are coated onto a plastic surface, a sample from the test animal is added and any antibodies for the disease present in the sample will bind to the antigens. A second antibody with a marker is then added and a positive reaction is detected by the marker changing colour when an appropriate substrate is added. If there are no antibodies in the sample, the second antibody will not be able to stick and there will be no colour change.
For further information please contact:
Rhona Macdonald
Moredun Research Institute
Pentlands Science Park
Bush Loan, Penicuik
EH26 0PZ
UK