Research has unveiled the capabilities of the Pictor PictVet™ Mycoplasma bovis IgG Multiplex ELISA, which shows significant promise in detecting the Mycoplasma bovis pathogen in cattle. This advancement is critical for enhancing global disease management and minimizing economic losses associated with cattle health issues.
According to Pictor Holdings Inc., based in Carlsbad, California, Mycoplasma bovis poses a severe risk to cattle health and productivity worldwide. In the United States, economic losses attributed to M. bovis mastitis exceed $100 million annually. While the pathogen does not directly threaten human health, it poses risks to public health systems, particularly regarding antimicrobial resistance and food security.
The newly developed PictVet™ assay demonstrates exceptional analytical performance. A study funded by New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries and the University of Melbourne indicates that the assay achieved a Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) of 100% and a Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) of 98.4% when compared with the IDvet ELISA, indicating a high level of reliability.
Innovative Design Enhances Detection Capabilities
The PictVet™ assay employs a unique multiplex design that utilizes two distinct Mycoplasma bovis antigens. This approach not only increases sensitivity but also improves specificity, setting a new standard for veterinary testing. Dr. Yoichi Furuya, Chief Science Officer at Pictor, stated, “By incorporating multiple antigens, the PictVet™ assay achieves a level of sensitivity and specificity that sets a new benchmark for veterinary testing.”
The assay’s superior limit of detection (LOD) allows it to identify infections at lower antibody concentrations, which could significantly enhance early detection efforts. Ongoing studies aim to assess its performance in diverse field conditions, validating its potential for early Mycoplasma bovis infection detection.
Dr. Paul Dick, President of Paul Dick & Associates Ltd., emphasized the critical need for accurate testing. “Mycoplasma bovis continues to exact a heavy toll on the global cattle industry — from production losses and animal welfare impacts to the downstream effects on food security and antimicrobial resistance,” he remarked. “Accurate, reliable, and affordable testing is essential. Without it, we’re managing blind — and that delays every decision farmers and veterinarians need to protect herd health and safeguard the food system.”
Addressing Surveillance Gaps in Cattle Health
The PictVet™ assay was specifically designed to fill existing gaps in current surveillance tools, providing a more dependable method for managing Mycoplasma bovis outbreaks. Early and accurate detection is vital for supporting eradication efforts, including New Zealand’s ambitious campaigns aimed at controlling this infection.
“This assay is not just a laboratory tool — it’s a solution that empowers farmers and veterinarians to take proactive steps in managing herd health,” said Dr. Jamie Platt, CEO of Pictor. He noted the company’s commitment to delivering innovations that positively impact both human and animal health, aligning with the One Health approach.
Pictor Holdings Inc. is recognized as a leader in flexible, targeted proteomics, offering next-generation multiplex solutions for clinical labs, diagnostic manufacturers, and veterinary providers globally. With its patented technologies, including PictArray™, PictImager™, and AI-powered Pictorial™ software, Pictor aims to provide deeper insights from a single sample, facilitating faster, more affordable, and scalable results across various health domains.
For further information on Pictor’s advancements in proteomics testing, visit their website at www.pictordx.com.
