The long-term objective is to develop an automated fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) for detection of fentanyl and analogs in blood and urine. The Phase I specific aim is to synthesize and evaluate: 1) fluoresceinlabeled fentanyl analogs usable in a FPIA; 2) fentanyl (hapten)-protein conjugates used to elicit an immune response in Balb/c mice; 3) murine monoclonal antibodies to fentanyl and analogs. The Phase I objective is twofold: 1) to choose from the synthetic components a best combination for measuring fentanyl and analogs; 2) to prepare a small """"""""bank"""""""" of well-characterized murine monoclonal antibodies for internal use as well as for use by other investigators. The healthcare industry and legislators are ill-prepared for the rapid and complex impact of escalating fentanyl abuse. The need for an innovative approach to detection of fentanyl in blood or urine is generally recognized. Authorities agree that an immunoassay will be required. By providing a fluorescence polarization immunoassay for fentanyl and analogs, the drawbacks associated radioimmunoassay will be overcome.
