INTENDED USE

Qualitative detection of pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) in serum or plasma collected from cattle, for veterinary point-of-care use. It aids in early pregnancy diagnosis in cows and heifers. A positive result indicates pregnancy; however, PAG can persist for several weeks after calving or fetal loss, so results must be interpreted together with breeding history, palpation, and ultrasonography.

PRINCIPLE

The PAG Rapid Test is a lateral-flow immunochromatographic assay based on colloidal gold labeling. The test cassette contains a nitrocellulose membrane with a test (T) line pre-coated with capture antibody against pregnancy-associated glycoprotein and a control (C) line. When the processed serum or plasma is added to the sample well, it migrates by capillary action. If PAG is present, it binds the gold-conjugated anti-PAG antibody and is captured at the T line, forming a visible colored band. The C line should always appear, confirming the assay ran correctly. Results are read visually by the naked eye within the stated time; no instrument is required.

SPECIMEN

Use serum or plasma collected from cattle by venipuncture. For serum, allow clotting and centrifuge; for plasma, use anticoagulated blood. Use fresh samples; avoid hemolysis. Because PAG can persist after calving or fetal loss, confirm with breeding records and ultrasonography; store samples at 2–8 °C short term or freeze if delayed.

REFERENCES

• https://livestock.extension.wisc.edu/files/2023/06/Determining-Bovine-Pregnancy-Status-June-2023-1.pdf
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3870866/