A European Network for Risk Assessment, Detection and Control of Trichinellosis (TRICHINET)

Progress: A database of key scientists and reference laboratories was developed and four meetings were organized. The main epidemiological information collated through TrichiNet was the emergence of Trichinella infections (T. britovi) among wildlife and free-ranging pigs in Corsica, two human outbreaks occurring in Sardinia, while these islands were considered Trichinella-free, and the persistence of several human cases in different European countries. Seventy two Trichinella isolates were collected and maintained at a Central Repository (OIE-ITRC). Procedures to maintain/forward Trichinella isolates, and to collect/preserve the parasite larvae were determined. A list of European reference laboratories with typing facilities and capabilities was established. A review of the current direct testing technologies (published and experimental data) was published in Eurosurveillance and disseminated to stakeholders via a meeting. A review of the current available technologies for diagnosis of Trichinella infection in human and animals by indirect tests was presented. The development of new ELISAs for the early diagnosis of pig trichinellosis was performed and a new system is under validation (capture ELISA with monoclonal antibodies). Two recombinant antigens, NBL1 and 411, were synthesized in E coli and purified. These two antigens were evaluated by ELISA either individually or in combination, and compared to the ES antigen reference test allowing further validation of a submitted patent.
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