IAV142-5 Influenza A NCP Antigen Capture ELISA - Photometric

A variety of wild waterfowl appear to be the predominant natural reservoir for Influenza A viruses and subtypes representing many of the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase combinations can be found circulating in these birds. Historically, human influenza virus infections have been associated with H1N1, H2N2, and H3N2 subtypes of influenza A, although a recent (1997) and significant outbreak in Hong Kong was identified as an H5N1 subtype. This outbreak was not only significant because it resulted in 18 human infections and 6 deaths, but it also represented the first known demonstration of avian influenza virus transmission to humans. Since the 1997 H5N1 outbreak in Hong Kong, additional outbreaks of different influenza A subtypes exhibiting bird to human transmission have been documented; H9N2 in Hong Kong (1999, 2003) and China (1999), H7N2 in The Netherlands (2003), and H5N1 in China (2003) and Southeast Asia (2003-2004). As a result of these outbreaks and other information, there is a significant concern that a human pandemic strain of influenza A could emerge.

While Influenza A subtype identification is extremely important (vaccine production, epidemiology), the rapid and accurate differentiation of influenza A from influenza B and C and other respiratory agents in humans and animals is also important (treatment and biosecurity). Virusys has developed a highly sensitive and specific enzyme immunoassay for the detection of Influenza A nucleoprotein antigen in complex sample matrices derived from both human and veterinary sources. The assay can be completed in less than 1.5 hr. and contains only one wash step.

The detection limit of the kit varies depending upon the type of sample being evaluated. In assays using recombinant antigen, purified virus, virus in tissue culture fluid or diluted in a "simple" buffer (PBS/BSA), the analytical sensitivity is ~150 pg/ml.