Comparison of In-house Developed Indirect ELISA with Commercially Available Kit for Diagnosis of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) Virus

Abstract

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is a major disease of sheep, goats, camel, and wild ruminants. It can affect entire populations of immunologically immature hosts. PPR may lead to epidemics that affect the economy of any country to a certain extent. In order to control the disease, an accurate and reliable diagnosis is the first step. So, there is a need for a series of cost-effective alternative tools for rapid diagnosis of PPR infection. The aim of this study was to compare inhouse developed indirect ELISA (i-ELISA) with commercially available c-ELISA for the detection of antibodies against PPRV. A total of 694 serum samples were obtained from sheep and goats based on clinical signs from different regions of Pakistan. The relative sensitivity and specificity of i-ELISA was evaluated, and results were also compared with c-ELISA and VNT in terms of sensitivity and specificity. The agreements between the tests were determined using Cohen’s Kappa statistics and two-way contingency table. Specificity and sensitivity of i-ELISA was found to be 95.37 & 89.84% respectively as compared to cELISA, similarly these results were also compared with VNT as 100 & 81% respectively. Moreover, cost of i-ELISA for 96 well plate was estimated $36 as compared to commercially available kits which ranges from $400-$500 making it more affordable as compared to commercial c ELISA for developing countries like Pakistan. Key words: Peste des petits ruminants, Ruminants, Antibodies, Indirect ELISA, c ELISA, VNT.