Monoclonal Antibodies for Detection of Environmental Contamination: An Immunoassay for Dioxin

Abstract

Environmental monitoring for chemical pollutants has traditionally been done using a variety of analytical techniques including gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy. These techniques, while very precise, are usually time-consuming, and require sophisticated equipment, dedicated laboratories, and highly trained personnel. All result in a costly analysis that is not amenable to automation. Alternative assays that detect specific chemicals and are less expensive, faster, and adaptable to automated systems are desirable. They also should be simple enough to be performed in mobile field laboratories by relatively untrained personnel.