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Immunosensor for Assessing the Welfare of Trainee Guide Dogs
Hannah Perkins1,2, Michelle Higgins1,2, Marinara Marcato1
1Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork, T12 R5CP Cork, Ireland.
Biosensors
|September 25, 2021
Summary
A new immunosensor accurately detects cortisol, the stress hormone, in canine saliva. This tool helps assess a dog's stress levels during training, aiding in suitability for roles like assistance dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Biomarker Development
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Cortisol is a key biomarker hormone, commonly known as the stress hormone.
- Measuring cortisol levels in dogs can indicate their stress response during training.
- This assessment helps determine a dog's suitability for specific roles, such as assistance or companion dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an immunosensor for detecting cortisol in canine saliva.
- To assess the potential of this immunosensor in evaluating stress levels in dogs undergoing training.
Main Methods:
- Development of an immunosensor utilizing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).
- Characterization of the sensor using chemical and topographical methods.
- Calibration of the sensor across a cortisol concentration range of 0.0005 to 50 μg/mL.
Main Results:
- The immunosensor demonstrated a theoretical limit of detection of 3.57 fg/mL.
- Cortisol was successfully detected and quantified in canine saliva samples.
- Measurements fell within relevant physiological ranges for dogs.
Conclusions:
- The developed immunosensor is effective for measuring cortisol in canine saliva.
- This technology can serve as a valuable tool for assessing stress in training dogs.
- It aids in determining a dog's suitability for demanding roles.
