AntelBio’s expertise in developing milk sample diagnostic tests was key in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s recent decision to award a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I grant. The funding will be used to investigate novel Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) detection methods in bulk milk samples. With new clinical bTB cases emerging in cattle in a number of states; and control and eradication programs running in the millions of dollars, identifying new cost effective screening methods would be a tremendous benefit.

Dr. Preetha Biswas, AntelBio research scientist, and principle investigator for the study commented, “Design and development of a real-time PCR assay effective for use in milk could have a tremendous impact on early intervention and prevention strategies for bTB, and minimize the threat it poses to food supplies. Tests of this type would be particularly efficient when employed by milk marketing organizations as well as governmental agencies.”

Improved detection methods could facilitate development of a simple, cost effective screening tool for bTB, which would have a significant impact on the dairy industry nationwide. At the conclusion of the first phase of the research, results will be evaluated by USDA to determine if subsequent research and funding is warranted to continue development of a product that could be commercialized.

—From AntelBio news release