Enhanced chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay for the detection of trichinellosis antibodies in pigs

A modified enhanced chemiluminescent enzyme assay (ECIA) was developed for mass screening of pigs for trichinellosis antibodies in abattoirs. Using Nionectics beads as solid support, the assay time could be reduced to 45 min. Optimal conditions for washing, blocking, incubation, concentration of serum, antigens and conjugates as well as timing of film exposure were determined. The sensitivity and specificity of the assay were found to be comparable to those of the triple antibody-IgG ELISA. The assay was tested in an abattoir and its efficacy was found to be satisfactory. However, the major disadvantage of the assay is the high cost of magnetic beads.