Utah State University

Bart C Weimer

Marie K Walsh

Antigens can be captured and detected from complex samples, such as food and environmental samples, in about 30 minutes using apparatus and methods that include flow of the samples through a module containing antibodies coupled to beads. The samples flow through the modified beads at about 0.2 to 1.2 liters/minute, which fluidizes the bead bed. The antigens are captured by the antibodies, and then detection of the captured antibodies is carried out with chemiluminescence, fluorescence, or spectrophotometric techniques.

Real time detection of antigens

Compositions and methods of use thereof for capture and detection of selected molecules are described. In one embodiment, a first composition includes a ligand component, such as an antibody coupled to a nucleic acid component. An a preferred embodiment, the nucleic acid is labeled with a fluorescent marker to facilitate detection. Another aspect of the invention is the ligand component bound to a solid support via a complementary nucleic acid component and a linker moiety. The method involves binding the target with the first composition in free solution, then binding the target to the solid support by means of both DNA hybridization and antibody-antigen affinity binding. Unbound molecules are washed away, and then the bound targets are detected by fluorescence detection. Vital stains can also be used to detect viable cells.

Ligand-DNA composition for capture and detection of contaminants on a solid surface

A modified bead having a structure represented by the formula B&mdash;X&mdash;A is disclosed, wherein B is a solid support preferably in the form of a bead, X is a spacer selected from the group consisting of poly(threonine), poly(serine), dextran, and poly(ethylene glycol), and A is an antibody. Using such modified beads in an immunoflow module, antigens can be captured and detected from food and environmental samples in about 30 minutes.

A method for removing a selected contaminant from a liquid food product is disclosed. A special application of the method is for removing an antibiotic from milk. The method comprises the steps of contacting the milk with a matrix-antibody composition, wherein the antibody has a specific affinity for the selected contaminant, for a time and at a temperature sufficient for the contaminant to bind to the antibody to form a complex, and separating the complex from the food product. The matrix-antibody composition is regenerable by treating the complex with high ionic strength solution to release bound contaminants from the antibodies.

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Logan, UT, United States of America

Bart C Weimer