Exciting development for IQ377 MRSA (PBP2a) Monoclonal Antibody [AC10]
Introduction
Methicillin-resistant staphylococcal aureus (MRSA) continues to be of increasing concern in human healthcare, especially in medical facilities such as hospitals and care-homes. The key concern is that MRSA is resistant to many antibiotics, and therefore infections are often very difficult to treat and are associated with mortality rates that can be as high as 60%.
The mechanism underlying MRSA antibiotic resistance is well understood. An enzyme known as PBP2a is found in MRSA strains, and this can catalyze cell wall biosynthesis even in the presence of beta-lactam antibiotics, which normally act to disrupt cell walls leading to bacterial death.
Identifying MRSA infections as quickly as possible AND differentiating them from methicillin-sensitive staphylococcal aureus (MSSA) infections, which are more sensitive to antibiotic treatment, is of upmost importance. Beginning treatment with specialist antibiotics, at the earliest possible opportunity, is key to the management of MRSA.
Livestock Associated MRSA is of concern for potential transmission of infection between animals and humans. This is a key area for research and can be seen in more detail HERE.
Why is Immuquest’s MRSA antibody different?
Immuquest’s antibody IQ377 MRSA PBP2a, has been demonstrated to be specific for the PBP2a protein (Penicillin binding protein 2). This antibody has been shown to be suitable for use in ELISA and Western blotting techniques to detect PBP2a in a wide range of MRSA strains, including those isolated from infected human, cattle, swine and chicken.
In an in-depth study by Andre Skepple in 2013 (MSc thesis, Kingston University, click to view HERE), the MRSA monoclonal antibody AC10 (IQ377) was compared with a panel of 9 other MRSA monoclonal antibodies used in a sandwich ELISA, and showed the best and most discriminating antigen binding against the PBP2a target as a capture antibody. The AC10 antibody showed clear discrimination between MRSA and MSSA strains.
The demonstration of specific binding to the MRSA related PBP2a protein, provides a potential route for developing tests that can detect MRSA infections using immunoassays or potentially in rapid tests such as lateral flow assays, as antibodies specific for PBP2a can be applied in such tests.
IQ377 MRSA PBP2a antibody, for MRSA detection specifically for PBP2a Protein. It is available for evaluation and may be of particular interest for customers wanting to develop tests for MRSA. Bulk amounts are available for immunoassay manufacturing purposes and are currently available in conjugated formats: Biotin, HRP and FITC. Other formats are also available on request.