Investigations with ELISA: using SAPS ELISA kit for Botrylis

The SAPS ELISA kit for Botrytis has been developed as a low cost kit to bring practical immunology into the classroom. The monoclonal antibody in the kit detects Botrytis, a fungal pathogen. Botrytis infects plant material (such as strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes and flowers) and is of considerable importance in relation to crop losses in the commercial world of horticulture. The use of a plant pathogen in the kit avoids most of the restrictions associated with work with human pathogens. The principles explored give useful support in teaching students about monoclonal antibodies and topics relating to human health and disease. Using the kit for practical work will help students understand important uses of monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis in plant disease, medicine and veterinary medicine.

The SAPS ELISA kit contains all the specialised equipment (such as microwells, pastettes and micropipettes) together with the necessary antibodies, the substrate and a Botrytis culture for reference. The materials provided are sufficient for five groups of students. The kit includes a student guide with full practical protocol and useful background material on ELISA systems, monoclonal antibodies and Botrytis infection. The practical protocol is adapted to use raspberries (inoculated with Botrytis) as the basis for a practical investigation, and there are suggestions for other investigative work. A technical guide provides further support for teachers and technicians.

The kit (price £35 + VAT) is available from:-

Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture 

(SASA),Monoclonal Antibody Unit, 1 Roddinglaw Road, Edinburgh EH12 9FJ
Tel: 0131 244 8867 Fax: 0131 244 8940