ELISA TEST Bovine Leukemia Virus

Bovine Leukemia Virus Antibody Test Kit, ELISA

DESCRIPTION:
This kit is an immunoenzymatic assay intended for the detection of Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) antibodies in cattle serum and milk.

SUMMARY AND EXPLANATION:
BLV is a retrovirus which causes enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL). Most infections with BLV are subclinical, but a proportion of adult cattle develop persistent lymphocytosis, and eventually lymphosarcomas (tumours) in various organs. Clinical signs, if present, depend on the organs affected.
BLV is present in blood lymphocytes and in tumour cells as provirus integrated into the DNA of the cell. It is also found in the cellular fraction of various body fluids (e.g. saliva, milk). Natural transmission depends on the transfer of infected cells (e.g. during parturition). Some blood-sucking insects may also transmit the virus mechanically. Artificial transmission occurs, especially by blood-contaminated needles, surgical equipment, gloves used for rectal examinations, etc.
Infection with BLV in cattle gives rise to a persistent antibody response. Antibodies can first be detected 3-16 weeks after infection. They are present in both serum and milk. Maternally derived antibodies may take up to 6 or 7 months to disappear. The antibodies most readily detected are those directed towards the envelope glycoprotein gp51 of the virus.
Routine diagnosis of BLV infection is based on the detection of specific antibodies. Serological testing is used in certification programs, eradication programs and for commercial exchanges.

CHARACTERISTICS:
- Blocking ELISA: antigens specific to BLV (gp 51 protein)
- Rapid (less than 2 hours)
- Tests per kit:
- 2 plates: up to 184 samples tested individually or pooled
- 5 plates: up to 460 samples tested individually or pooled (up to 10 serum samples or 2 milk samples per pool)