Patent ID: 6696264
Filing Date: 2004-02-24
Classification: G01N,Y10S

Abstract:
A biological assay material for detecting the presence of a particular toxic substance comprising:a base layer which is a flexible film for immobilization of a ligand applied to a surface thereof and wherein said film is selected from the group consisting of a polyolefin and a polyvinylchloride; a first biologically active ligand characterized by its ability to recognize a primary epitope of the particular toxic substance, said ligand being immobilized onto said surface of said film; a first agarose gelcoat layer overlying said first biologically active ligand, said agarose layer being permeable to the toxic substance and containing at least one ingredient to enhance the growth thereof, said layer further containing a detector antibody which is a biologically active ligand characterized by its ability to recognize a secondary epitope of said particular toxic substance, thereby forming a detector antibody/antigen complex; and a second protective gelcoat layer overlying the detector antibody and having a degree of porosity whereby passage of said toxic substance is permitted and passage of said detector antibody/antigen complex is prevented, said second protective gelcoat layer having a degree of abrasion resistance effective to protect the biological assay material; wherein said first biologically active ligand includes at least one antibody having dual specificity for a primary epitope and a secondary epitope.