Better tests to detect botulism toxins in animals and animal feed
Validation of Endopep-MS for qualitative detection of BoNT/A, /C, /CD, /D, and /DC in animal specimens and feed.
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11159833
This project will adapt a fast lab method to find botulism toxins in animals and animal feed to help protect farm animals and reduce the chance people are exposed.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159833 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team at UC Davis will validate the Endopep-MS laboratory method to detect several types of botulinum toxin in animal specimens and in feed using both toxin-spiked and archived samples. They will compare Endopep-MS results to the standard mouse bioassay to check accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability. The project will create standardized procedures so veterinary diagnostic labs can perform the test consistently. The goal is to make detection faster and more reliable during outbreaks that threaten animals and could affect people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll people; it uses animal specimens and feed tested in veterinary and public health laboratories.
Not a fit: Individuals with botulism will not be enrolled or receive direct treatment from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could allow quicker and more reliable detection of botulism in animals and feed, lowering the risk that contaminated animal products reach people and enabling faster outbreak responses.
How similar studies have performed: The Endopep-MS method is already used by CDC for confirming human botulism, but comprehensive validation specifically for animal specimens and feed is new.
Where this research is happening
DAVIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS — DAVIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BISCHOFF, KARYN — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS
- Study coordinator: BISCHOFF, KARYN
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.