Two ELISA-based Tests for the Detection of PRRSV Gain Approval

AJ Roboscreen, an Analytik Jena company, recently obtained the approval for two new assays for screening of swine sera for PRRSV (porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus) antibodies and for evaluation. The new ELISA-based tests differentiate into PRRSV Type I (Europe-Type) and Type II (North America-Type). The ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is an immunoassay to detect proteins in liquid samples.

"At present PRRSV causes the most important economical loss in pig industry. According to estimates, 70-80% of all enterprises in Germany are affected by PRRSV. At least 30,000 to 35,000 tests are used for sow and piglet enterprises in Saxony per year; this corresponds to 40% of all sows in this federal state in Germany. Resulting reproductive problems and pneumonia lead to reduced growth and vulnerability for secondary infection", said Alexander Berka, Manager of the Life Science business unit at Analytik Jena AG. Infected animals quickly spread PRRSV within a flock via contaminated body fluids. Losses of €25  to €250  per breeding sow and year are estimated. For this reason several vaccination programs are trying to raise immunity of the flocks. "Effective containment substantially depends on early identification and quick isolation or removal of infected animals," continued Alexander Berka.

Based on a licensing agreement with the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Analytik Jena developed the two new assays PRRSV DETECT-ELISA and PRRSV NA/EU TYP-ELISA. The new ELISAs currently are a unique solution on the market for PRRSV antibody detection and differentiation for effective control and containment of this infectious and economically devastating disease.