Why we choose pig Major Acute-phase Protein (Pig-MAP) for the rapid test?

The acute phase protein Pig-MAP has been widely studied by the business partner PigCHAMP Pro and is considered as a good marker for pig health and welfare. This parameter has the advantage of showing relatively low variations in normal state but showing distinctly increase if animal health or welfare declines.

Figure 2: Typical response of Pig-MAP to infection or inflammation (Maximum concentration reached depends on the magnitude of the challenge)

Because of this, it was planned to develop a rapid test for Pig-MAP to improve the quality of pig production. The use of APP test based on immunocromatographic methods (dipstick), will be pioneer in the market. According to the users needs, this method has the advantages of its simplicity, its utility for in the field application and the rapidity in obtaining results which will facilitate the decision making of veterinarians and consultants.

 

What about the development of the rapid test?

Figure 3: The rapid test strip

The rapid test is ready to be used in the implementation programme at farms. The implementation programme will be started in March with about 20 farms from Segovia (Spain). The rapid test consists of a vial where the sample is added and a reactive strip. After the blood sample is added to the vial, it has to be mixed before the reactive strip is dipped. If the Pig-MAP concentration in sample is increased (> 1,5 mg/ml) a pink line can be seen on the strip after 10 minutes of incubation. The test can be used with serum or whole blood only the volume of sample added to the vial has to be changed depending on the matrix (see figure 1).

Figure 4: Procedure of the rapid test

 

How to put the rapid test into practice?

A standard operating procedure (SOP) for the testing and using of the rapid test on farms is still in progress. Proposed sampling points for in a routine basis monitoring are 60, 116 and 3 days prior to slaughter. Information about mortality, medical costs, body weight and age at slaughter time will be recorded. Furthermore, a form for a systematic weak point analysis will be performed for fattening pigs soon. This document will help to identify points in the production that need to be controlled and to rank farms according to hygienic and health status, management etc. It will include a data sheet for the collection of information.