Project Number: 3625-32000-087-12
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jan 01, 2007
End Date: Oct 31, 2008

Objective:
Develop scanning force microscopy (SFM) and Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) as tools for the detection of viral pathogens through antigen/antibody binding.

Approach:
Step 1. a. Construct dual analyte capture substrates using calicivirus and parvovirus as a two antigen model system. b. Construct two sets of immunogold labels 1. The set for the Raman labels will require two different Raman scatterers, using the position of the vibrational mode for identification and intensity for quantification. 2. Two different sizes of immunogold labels will be employed, with the size of the particle used for identification and the number bound to the capture surface for quantification. Step 2. a. Test assay platforms with spiked serum samples. b. Repeat studies for different pathogens, including BVDV Step 3. a. Expand efforts to incorporate various approaches to sample concentration directly in line with the on chip readout process. b. Expand the prototype tests to include detection of multiple viruses using viral models that represent high consequence pathogens (HCP) and viruses that are regarded as type viruses for their family or genus. The first type of test will be for specific viruses that are either HCP or endemic viruses that may be confused with HCP based on clinical presentation. The second type of test will be a differential test for viral families or genera. Step 4. a. Prepare written final report, including a critical discussion of the future opportunities for these assay methodologies as "point of use" techniques for meeting NADC needs. b. Discuss opportunities with NADC for future collaborations.