African swine fever (ASF) is a notifiable, contagious viral hemorrhagic disease of swine, responsible for high mortality and serious economic losses. In the paper Swift and Reliable “Easy Lab” methods for the sensitive molecular detection of African swine fever, researchers from the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) aimed to simplify and standardize the molecular diagnostic workflow in the lab using prefilled, ready-to-use IndiMag Pathogen Cartridges for nucleic acid extraction prior to (real-time) PCR.

The study concluded that:

  1. EDTA blood and bloody materials are the sample matrices of choice for sensitive ASFV genome detection, independent of the course and phase of the disease.
  2. If optimal specimens are used for the molecular detection of ASFV, several extraction, and qPCR methods are “fit for purpose”. The selection of the ideal system for a specific lab depends on various factors (samples per day, trained personnel, technical resources, etc.).
  3. Based on the minimization of manual handling and working time, we showed that simplification and standardization of DNA extraction and qPCR methods do not result in reduced diagnostic sensitivity and actually reduces the risk of false-negative results, especially in high throughput scenarios.

At INDICAL, we share scientific insights, because improved exchange of knowledge and increased awareness are crucial in implementing efficient and coordinated ASF control strategies.

Read the full article here

Explore INDICAL’s solutions for extraction and identification of ASFV

INDICAL is proud to enter a strategic partnership with pioneering air sampling technology company AeroCollect.

The technology enables detection of pathogens earlier than clinical symptoms or shedding of pathogens. Results are gathered through a 3-step method that does not compromise on animal welfare.

  1. Walk around the farm for 5 minutes with the instrument to collect the sample
  2. Send sample to laboratory
  3. Get same day results for presence of bacteria or viruses

“The pioneering technology will facilitate easier, faster and more accurate sampling in vet diagnostics to support our ambition to improve animal health globally”, says Stefano Santarelli, CEO of INDICAL BIOSCIENCE.

Read the full press release here

AeroCollect in action

AeroCollect® works by pulling a flow of air through a small sample chamber. When collecting samples, high voltage is applied to the test chamber. This creates an electric field across the sample chamber that captures and concentrates bacteria, viruses, and other microscopic particles in the sample chamber. The sample chamber is then sent to the laboratory where the content is analysed for pathogens using a qPCR analysis. The results are ready within one to two hours.

Watch the clip below to see how it works

https://vimeo.com/669780165Learn more about the AeroCollect device here