Toxic heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, are prevalent in the environment due to their high industrial use. These toxic metals are cumulative poisons and are toxic even at low doses, causing either chronic or acute toxicity with primarily hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic or neurotoxic effects. There are no useful rapid screening tests to detect cadmium in water or on surfaces. The tests available for detection of lead in water utilize hazardous chemicals (e.g. cyanide) and are not readily adapted for use in the field, in the home or in the work place. This project proposes to determine the feasibility of developing a new immunoassay based proprietary system for the rapid detection of heavy metals. The polyclonal antisera will be adsorbed to eliminate unwanted crossreactive antibodies. The mouse strain that produces the antisera with the best recognition for the unique metal binding materials will be selected for future use in monoclonal antibody (Mab) production (in Phase II). Since sensitivities in the range of parts per billion can be achieved with an antibody-based test system, it is anticipated that an appropriate Mab(s) can be selected and incorporated into a rapid, sensitive assay system that detects lead or cadmium in water and/or food samples.Applications:Rapid, specific and sensitive tests for the detection of heavy metals that use safe and stable reagents have broad applicability to home tests as well as field screening tests for water quality. Availability of these screening tests for heavy metals in water would significantly improve the ability to detect and react to the presence of these hazardous substances. Early detection can minimize personal exposure and help to protect human health and safety.
