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Application of a multiplex immunoassay for detection of salivary antibody responses to selected potentially waterborne pathogens
Citation:
Hunt, S. M., G. FOUT, I. Chen, T. J. WADE, AND A. EGOROV. Application of a multiplex immunoassay for detection of salivary antibody responses to selected potentially waterborne pathogens. Presented at International Society for Exposure Assessment, Pasadena, CA, October 12 - 16, 2008.
Impact/Purpose:
research results
Description:
Although this work was reviewed by EPA and approved for publication, it may not necessarily reflect official Agency policy. Pathogen-specific antibodies in saliva can be used as bioindicators of recent or ongoing infection. Because collection of saliva is easy and painless, immunoassays designed to detect antibodies in oral fluid can be used in prospective studies. This project involves the development and validation of a multiplex microbead immunoassay for salivary IgA and IgG responses to Cryptosporidium, noroviruses (VA387 and Norwalk), rotaviruses (WA and DS1), Toxoplasma gondii, Helicobacter pylori, and Giardia lamblia. Paired saliva and serum samples from EPA volunteers were analyzed for antibody responses to T. gondii and H. pylori using this salivary assay and diagnostic serological ELISAs. The results demonstrated that salivary antibodies could be used for detection of these infections. The prospective analysis also identified immunoconversions to noroviruses that followed episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. Total antibody and protein concentrations were measured to control for variability in saliva composition. This multiplex assay is being used in an ongoing study in Massachusetts to characterize the incidence of potentially waterborne infections before and after the introduction of improved drinking water treatment.