Antigenic analysis of feline and bovine Chlamydia psittaci with monoclonal antibodies.

Monoclonal antibodies were established for antigenic analysis of feline and bovine Chlamydia psittaci. The monoclonal antibodies recognized lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 56-64, 84 or 86 kDa antigens. At least 5 antibody-binding sites were detected on LPS with the monoclonal antibodies. The 56-64 kDa antigen was suggested to have both polypeptide and carbohydrate antibody binding sites. Immunoblotting analysis of cat and cattle sera indicated that the 56-64 kDa antigen is an important antigen in host immune response. The monoclonal antibodies are extremely useful tools to analyse the structure and function of chlamydial antigens.