Measurement of personal exposure to aerosols of Nephrops norvegicus (Scampi) using a monoclonal-based assay

Background The industrial processing of scampi (Nephrops norvegicus) genera tes bioaerosols which can cause occupational respiratory disease in exposed individuals. The objective of this study was to develop a monoclonal antib ody-based immunoassay to measure scampi proteins collected using standard p ersonal air sampling methods. Methods A monoclonal antibody was generated which predominantly bound to a single 97 Kd scampi protein, which we have shown to be a major allergen. Th is protein was shown by SDS PAGE immunoblotting to be present in various aq ueous extracts from wastes produced during scampi processing. A quantitativ e immunoslotblot method was developed to quantify scampi from air sample fi lters. Results We demonstrated the utility of this method by showing a significant difference (P = 0.015) in the level of exposure of two groups of 12 worker s processing scampi at a traditional open workstation (CM = 607 ng m(-3)) a nd at an enclosed workstation (GM = 451 ng m(-3)). Conclusion We conclude that this assay can be used, in conjunction with hea lth surveillance, to monitor exposure and the efficacy of measures to reduc e exposure to airborne scampi allergen in an occupational environment.