August 29, 2005

New breakthrough in BSE detection process

US researchers have found a way to detect malformed BSE-causing proteins in blood, through amplifying the quantity of the protein by more than 10 million times to a detectable level.

The initial quantity in blood was once too small to be detected.

This discovery, made by University of Texas researchers led by neurology professor Claudio Soto, will result in a much more effective detection method for the infectious proteins responsible for BSE in cattle.

This new blood test is also expected to help keep infected beef out of the human food supply.