Biomarkers and Immunoassays in Animal Health and Nutrition

- Challenges and strategies for discovery of biomarkers in plasma, urine and cerebrospinal fluid
- Detection of breath biomarkers
- Different strategies for detection of tissue biomarkers

In this module, the student will learn how innate and adaptive immune system molecules can be used as tools for diagnosing and monitoring infectious diseases, and have an overview of the methods that can be implemented for discovering and detecting them. The module will illustrate biomarker validation strategies, immunodiagnostic development and validation strategies, and the steps that need to be taken for transferring a novel assay from the research laboratory to the diagnostic setting.

Specific topics of the course:
· Immune system molecules as biomarkers and diagnostic tools
· Biomarkers in infectious diseases
· Biomarker validation: meaning and strategies
· Immunoassays: what are they?
· Lab assays
· Field assays (pen-side)
· In-line assays
· Assay development
· Assay validation
· What can go wrong and what should we consider before we start
· Regulatory aspects in veterinary medicine
· Interactive case studies and hands-on activities
· Experiences from immunoassay developers and sellers

Biomarkers of Nutrient Exposure and Status
Two selected cases:
-One-Carbon (Methyl) Metabolism
-Steady-state redox balance
The case of NMR Metabolomics in animal science