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<ol> <LI> To review the scientific literature encompassing antimicrobial drug residue testing methodologies for samples that would be derived from food producing animals prior to processing or by products from food producing animals (i.e. milk, eggs, honey, etc). Scientific manuscripts with quality data will be added to the existing FARAD bibliographic database.<LI> To extract data from the scientific literature and create a searchable database that will provide information regarding testing methodologies for various matrices (i.e. milk, blood, urine) and antimicrobial drugs. This information will be used to make recommendations regarding sound testing methods that can be used to avoid drug residues. <LI> To identify gaps in the scientific literature for future research projects.
Non-Technical Summary: There is no database that summarizes information regarding drug testing methodologies for samples from food producing animals. The purpose of this project is to create a repository of data relative to existing antibiotic drug residue testing methodologies so that scientific data is available for evaluation of extra-label drug use in food animal species. <P> Approach: A. To review the scientific literature encompassing antimicrobial drug residue testing methodology. An extensive review of the scientific literature encompassing drug residue methodologies will be performed. This review will be led by a microbiologist with extensive food safety experience. Manuscripts that are considered to have quality scientific data will be entered into the existing FARAD database for utilization by all three collaborating universities that are involved with the FARAD program (UC Davis, North Carolina State University, and University of Florida) and global FARAD partners (Canada and China). B. To extract data from the scientific literature and create a searchable database. Data extraction from the scientific literature will entail characterizing assay systems by methodology, specific drug targets, and the appropriateness for utilization on various samples from multiple food animal species. When possible, assay characterization will include analytical sensitivity, specificity, and lower limit of detection on a sample by sample basis. These assay sensitivities will be compared to the maximum residue limits for specific drugs in specific tissues. All of this data will be entered into a newly established searchable database that FARAD personnel will use when advising veterinarians regarding extra label drug use in food producing animals. C. Identify scientific gaps leading to future studies that will evaluate drug residue assay tests. Identified gaps in the scientific literature, including potential extra label use of the drug testing systems (i.e. using a test that was developed for bovine milk to test caprine milk), will form the basis for future laboratory based scientific studies that will evaluate the clinical application of these test kit systems.