Detection of species-specific and cross-reactive epitopes inSarcocystic cystozoites by monoclonal antibodies

A total of 24 hybridoma cell lines producing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) toSarcocystis muris were established from 3 fusions performed on mice that had been immunized with total protein derived from cystozoites. In all, 19 mAbs were of the IgG₁ isotype, 3 were of the IgG_2a isotype, and 2 were of the IgG₃ isotype. The reactivity of the mAbs with homologous and heterologous antigens was examined by an indirect fluorescent antibody test, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and a dot ELISA. MAbs were directed against various structures of the cystozoite as revealed by different immunofluorescence patterns. In all, 12 mAbs recognized only antigens ofS. muris cystozoites, whereas the other 12 mAbs also recognized various antigens of cystozoites ofS. gigantea, S. tenella, S. arieticanis, S. capracanis, S. miescheriana, orS. suihominis. No cross-reactions with endozoites ofToxoplasma gondii were observed.This publication is dedicated to Prof. Dr. J. Eckert on the occasion of his 60th birthday