The IgA response, which
parallels pig colonization status in pen-based oral fluid
samples should be further explored and could provide a
sensitive, cost-effective surveillance tool after further
optimization. Collectively, these findings demonstrated
that sera cross-reactivity among all major swine mycoplasmas
can occur; however, subsequent studies using a
larger number of animals in experimental and clinical
settings will be needed to further validate the analytical
impact of such assays. Additionally, a broader panel of
strains will have to be used for characterization of
antigenicity and immunogenicity if more sensitive and
specific immune assays are to be developed. Nonetheless,
our experimental approach becomes an important model
for such validations since the status of exposure before and
during the study is crucial for its success.