FDA Vet-LIRN Infrastructure Support for Ohio ADDL

This proposal from the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) is in response to Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) PAR-22-063 from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN). The project is titled “FDA Vet-LIRN Infrastructure Support for Ohio ADDL.” This proposal from ODA’s Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (ADDL) addresses the following key project areas: 1. Participation in FDA/Vet-LIRN sample analysis. Samples could be collected by Federal, State, or local entities. 2. Providing analytical data to support potential regulatory use through: a. Use of standardized methods, equipment platforms, and reporting methods (standardized analytical worksheets and electronic results reporting). b. Participation in proficiency testing and method training provided by the VPO. c. Investigating consumer report cases requested by VPO d. Implementation of standardized quality management systems for laboratories as determined by the VPO. 3. Participation in additional research and special projects such as small-scale method development and/or method validation and matrix extension work as determined by the VPO. The ADDL is prepared to strengthen coordination of veterinary diagnostic laboratory efforts as related to the national food safety system by supporting research and capacity building during case investigations, including chemical, microbiological, pathological, or other complex analyses to help determine cases of potential adulteration or contamination of animal foods or animal drugs. Specifically, this grant opportunity supports the ability of network laboratories to respond to case investigation needs. This includes support for training, quality assurance processes, proficiency exercises, and data sharing to support development of veterinary diagnostic laboratories. The ADDL also plans to utilize funds to expand its ISO 17025 scope to achieve these goals.