Antibodies for EPEC/EHEC specific array
AEEC are the causative agents for various afflictions such as haemorrhagic colitis and haemolytic ureic syndrome. Fortunately, they also exhibit differing surface antigen properties than other pathogenic and non-pathogenic Escherichia coli bacteria. Therefore identifying these differences may be a crucial step in developing effective treatments and antibodies. During an EC-funded LIFE QUALITY project researchers were able to identify the genetic basis for a monoclonal antibody (Mab) 2F3 recognised antigen. This particularly important breakthrough led to the determination that it is largely specific to Escherichia coli (EPEC) and enterohemorrhagic E coli (EHEC) O26 strains. Furthermore, by using cosmid vectors of differing sizes and cloning capacity, a genomic DNA library was developed. Additionally, both outer membrane protein and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) extracts from EPEC/EHEC strains of various serogroups were used to immunise mice. Furthermore, hybridoma fusions demonstrated a better serum titre to the equivalent EPEC/EHEC whole cells. One specific MAb was successfully applied in an ELISA to produce a EPEC/EHEC specific array. These experiments show the significance of producing specific arrays and their potential in suitable targets for serological detection of individual serotypes. Further research and development is required, and it is along these lines the developers are looking for collaborations.
