Reaction of Human Sera with Eubacterium brachy: Isolation and Characterization of an Extracellular Antigen,
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated an association of Eubacterium sp. with the subgingival microflora of patients with chronic periodontitis. One species, Eubacterium brachy, was evaluated to determine the possible mechanisms by which this microorganism may contribute to these diseases. Of 167 sera evaluated by double diffusion in agar, 20.8% displayed reactivity with the sonicated preparation of E. brachy. However, when tested by ELISA, all sera displayed some reactivity. Lines of identity were not shared with other species of Eubacterium but were shared with other clinical isolates of E. brachy. The reactive antibody was identified as IgG by immunoelectrophoresis and was found to be capable of complement fixation. An extracellular antigen was identified in the culture supernatant fluid which reacted with antibodies in human sera. This antigen was isolated by methanol precipitation and purified by gel filtration. The monosaccharides and amino acids of this antigen were identified by high performance liquid chromatography. This antigen was shown to have a molecular weight of 170,000 Daltons and to share a line of identity with the sonicated preparation of E. brachy. The possible role of the organism in the immunopathology of periodontal diseases was discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 26, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA144221
Entities
People
- J. R. Heath Iii
- J. W. Vincent
- N. F. Delessandro
- Rachel A. Miller
- W. A. Falkler Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army Institute of Surgical Research