Validation and application of the ELISA technique for the detection of fish aero-antigens

Abstract

Increased seafood consumption due to its nutrition and promotion of a healthy diet has lead to more frequent reports of allergic reactions. In the seafood industry, workers are exposed to the antigens through inhalation of the vapours created during the seafood processing and cooking. Most seafood allergens are stable molecules, which are resistant to the effect of cooking and processing. The prevalence of occupational asthma varies from 7-36% among different groups of workers including seafood processing and fishmeal workers, fishermen and restaurant cooks (Jeebhay et al 2001).

Purpose of Study: The purpose of the study is to determine total protein and the specific fish antigen concentrations in the environment by means of personal air sampling filters obtained from various categories of workers in the seafood processing industry.

Objectives: • To determine the correlation between total protein concentrations and specific fish (pilchard and anchovy) antigen concentrations on personal air sampling filters using the linear response model of the standard curve. • To determine the correlation between total protein concentrations and specific fish (pilchard and anchovy) antigen concentrations on personal air sampling filters using the sigmoidal response model with a variable slope of the standard curve. • To identify the most efficient standard curve response model for fish antigen detection by comparing the percentage recovery of the linear standard curve response model and the sigmoidal standard curve response model.

Methodology: A sample population of 195 samples was taken from workers in the seafood industry at the St. Helena Bay Fisheries and West Point Processors using personal air sampling pumps.