Serology of Haemonchosis in Goats: Preparation of Parasitic Antigens and Dosage of IgA Antibodies by ELISA Technique

Abstract

Gastro-intestinal nematodes (GIN) are responsible for major losses in grazing ruminants. Under tropical area, Haemonchus contortus is the major threat. To control this parasite, several strategies have been proposed including the breeding of more resistant animals. Host genetic resistance has been linked to the immune response but mechanisms remain poorly characterized. In the scope of research works supervised in the URZ laboratory (Unité de Recherches Zootechniques), we implement indirect ELISA technique (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay) to titer circulating anti-H. contortus antibodies . This technique involves an immunoenzymatic reaction when possible if a complex antigene-antibody is created. To make it, it is necessary to have antigens to detect studied antibodies. This dosing, developed in 2008 at the URZ laboratory, is now commonly used in the characterization work of genetic determinism of the resistance to GINs.