Etiology and Rapid Diagnosis of Human Viral Gastroenteritis
Abstract
The purpose of this project is to assess the medical and epidemiological importance of various etiologic agents of human viral gastroenteritis diagnosis. In addition, we are studying the immunological relationships of gastroenteritis viruses to aid in their classification and diagnosis. Particular attention is being paid to the development and utilization of immunoassays to detect etiologic agents, with the preparation and use of monoclonal antibody reagents where possible. During the contract year for this report, we have prepared and characterized monoclonal antibodies that are reactive with a group antigen shared by all known astroviruses, which are small enteric agents that have been associated with some cases of gastroenteritis. Furthermore we have cultivated in cell culture, visualized, and characterized the Marin County agent of gastroenteritis for the first time, and have shown it to be an astrovirus which also reacts with our astrovirus group specific monoclonal antibodies. Current efforts are underway to develop a sensitive monoclonal antibody based immunoassay for detection of astroviruses in stool samples in order to permit for the first time widespread epidemiological studies on the role of these viruses in gastroenteritis. Keywords: Diarrhea, Adenoviruses.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA196667
Entities
People
- Neil R. Blacklow
Organizations
- University of Massachusetts Medical School