Antibody Mimics for ELISA-like Detection of Toxins and DIsease Pathogens

This Phase I Small Business Innovation Research Grant proposal will develop antibody mimics that bind to Clostridia tetanli toxin and ricin. The antibody mimics will be prepared using chemical synthetic processes without the use of animals. The antibody mimics will be evaluated for their ability to bind to the respective whole toxin molecules. Studies with the synthetic antibody mimics will include evaluation of sensitivity, specificity and affinity in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) formats. The stability of the antibody mimics will also be determined with respect to time of storage and retention of binding activity upon exposure to high temperature. BENEFITS: The antibody mimics developed will be useful as replacements for antibodies in ELISA kits. Assay kits containing antibody mimics with high affinity, high sensitivity and high stability will be usetul under field conditions. The military, medical, food and environmental industries have a need for antibody mimics.