TDA Labs - Large Animal Diagnostics
Biopryn Pregnancy Test -
Biopryn is a ruminant-specific pregnancy test developed by Dr. Garth Sasser at the University of Idaho. The test specifically looks for the level of bovine pregnancy protein B in serum. The ELISA reader calculates the optical density of the individual cow and compares this value with known controls including both open and pregnant cows. Based on this comparison, the results are reported as open, pregnant and pregnant-recheck. These reports can be transferred electronically into on-farm software if the client so chooses. The Biopryn test requires an overnight incubation period and results are reported approximately 24 hours after the test is first set up.
Animal selection and sample handling- Biopryn
Previously pregnant cows must be at least 90 days postpartum in order for any residual protein B from the previous gestation to be gone. Cows also need to be a minimum of 30 days post insemination. Virgin heifers should be at least 30 days post breeding in order to get an accurate test result. This test only tells you if the cow is pregnant or open. Gestation cannot be staged by this particular assay. Blood should be collected in a clot tube and stored under refrigeration until submission for testing. Pregnancy protein B is quite stable and there seem to be no untoward effects of serum sitting on the clot. Also, it is not critical that samples be refrigerated for shipment; however, it is a good idea to have them refrigerated prior to shipment. Samples should be shipped for receiving in 1-2 days.
TDA Labs has done side by side comparison testing between the Biopryn test and rectal palpation by experienced DVM palpators. The results of the test have been very comparable with palpation and we are in the process of calculating the sensitivity and specificity of this assay. The test has worked extremely well in virgin heifers and is becoming a preferred means of pregnancy diagnosis for AI bred heifers. In dairy herds, the test can provide the opportunity for more frequent (weekly) checks in some herds where it is difficult for a palpator to get there at the same frequency. This allows for more rapid diagnosis of open cows and an opportunity for earlier re-enrollment into synchronization programs. In addition, the non-invasive nature of the test reduces the chances of embryo damage during early gestational palpation. We would be glad to discuss this test in greater detail with anyone interested in finding out more about it.
For more information in regards to sheep, goats, bison and deer testing, please contact the lab at info@TDALabs.com.
To learn more about delivering samples to the lab, visit the Samples page.
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