An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the determination of human IgG subclass antibodies directed against Branhamella catarrhalis.

An ELISA procedure to determine the distribution of human IgG subclass antibodies directed against the gram-negative bacterium Branhamella catarrhalis has been developed using commercially available monoclonal anti-IgG subclass antibodies. Using whole bacteria as coating antigen the specificity of the assay was determined and showed minimal cross-reactivity with a range of other bacteria. Estimations of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4 and total IgG antibodies directed against this antigen were performed. All normal adult sera tested had measurable antibody levels of specific IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and total IgG. Specific IgG4 was undetectable in the majority of adult sera. These assays will be of value for investigation of both children and adults with suspected immunodeficiency and recurrent upper respiratory tract infection.