Generic microcystin immunoassay based on monoclonal antibodies against Adda

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Immunology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Microcystins and nodularins are toxic cyclic peptides produced by cyanobacteria.
• These toxins pose risks to human and animal health through contaminated water.
• Accurate and sensitive detection methods are essential for water quality monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sensitive immunoassay for detecting microcystins and nodularins.
• To characterize the performance of a novel monoclonal antibody (AD4G2) against the Adda moiety.
• To establish a reliable method for quantifying these toxins in water samples.

Main Methods:

• Generation of a monoclonal antibody (AD4G2) targeting the Adda amino acid.
• Development of a direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using AD4G2.
• Measurement of cross-reactivity and determination of assay sensitivity (IC50, detection limit).
• Validation of the assay using spiked water samples.

Main Results:

• The monoclonal antibody AD4G2 recognizes a common epitope in microcystins and nodularins.
• The developed ELISA provides a sum parameter for Adda-containing peptide toxins.
• The assay achieved a detection limit of 0.07 microg L(-1) for microcystin-LR, below WHO guidelines.
• Mean recovery of 113+/-23% was observed for spiked water samples.

Conclusions:

• The AD4G2 antibody is highly effective for developing sensitive ELISAs for microcystins and nodularins.
• The assay is suitable for routine monitoring of drinking water and surface water.
• This method contributes to safeguarding public health by ensuring water safety from cyanobacterial toxins.