Characterization of the homo- and heterotypic immune responses after natural norovirus infection

Noroviruses (NoV) are a genetically and antigenically diverse group of viruses that are common causes of outbreaks of gastroenteritis in humans of all ages. Limited information has been obtained on type specificity of the NoV immune response. In this study, we characterized the homologous and heterologous antibody responses in adults from 13 outbreaks, representing 4 different NoV genotypes. NoV specific IgG and IgA antibodies were determined as well as the increase of antibody avidity. In addition, antibody-mediated blocking of NoV binding to its putative receptor was evaluated. Both homologous and heterologous serological responses were detected after NoV infection. The avidity of antibodies could not be used to distinguish between homologous and heterologous antibody responses. However, a homologous blocking response but not a heterologous response was detected after infection with NoV belonging to genogroup II.4 by a NoV ligand binding inhibition assay. Infection with NoV induces antibodies that can block virus ligand interactions. In contrast with all currently known antibody detection assays for NoV, this can be used as a type specific assay and may be an alternative for studying neutralizing antibodies.