# Multiplex biomarker-based ELISA enables early detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis-specific antibodies comparable to IFN-γ testing

## TL;DR

A new multiplex ELISA test detects early-stage Johne’s disease in cattle as effectively as a more complex and costly IFN-γ test.

## Contribution

A novel multiplex ELISA using multiple MAP antigens improves early detection of MAP-specific antibodies in cattle.

## Key findings

- The multiplex ELISA showed strong agreement with IFN-γ test results for MAP detection.
- The assay outperformed existing commercial monoplex ELISA kits in sensitivity and accuracy.
- The test is a practical, high-throughput option for early MAP detection and herd management.

## Abstract

Johne’s disease, caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), continues to pose a major global challenge for the livestock industry due to its long subclinical phase and the limitations of current diagnostics. Commercial antibody-based ELISA tests often fail to detect early-stage infections, while interferon (IFN)-γ assays, though considered more sensitive at early stages, are costly and logistically complex. We present a novel multiplex ELISA that incorporates multiple MAP antigens for the detection of MAP-specific IgG antibodies in bovine serum and milk. Using well-characterized positive and negative cohorts, the assay demonstrated strong concordance with IFN-γ responses and outperformed commercial monoplex ELISA kits (IDEXX and IDVET). Our findings support its potential as a practical, high-throughput alternative for early detection of MAP-specific antibodies and for herd-level disease management.