Cross-reactions between Yersinia enterocolitica serogroup 0:3 and other serogroups of the same species, as well as thirty-four other bacterial species.

Cross-reactions between antigens from Yersinia enterocolitica serogroup 0:3 and 5 other members of the same species as well as 34 other bacterial species were studied by means of quantitative immunoelectrophoretic methods. A sonicated Y. enterocolitica antigen preparation and corresponding purified rabbit antibodies were used in a reference system that presented 58 regularly visible immunoprecipitates. One antigen was identified as specific for the Y. enterocolitica 0:3 serogroup and two antigens for the species Y. enterocolitica. Y. enterocolitica antigens cross-reacted widely with antigens from other Enterobacteriaceae, but only a few cross-reactions were registered with Gram-negative bacteria outside the Enterobacteriaceae. A partial cross-reaction between all Gram-positive bacteria included in our study and two Y. enterocolitica antigens was demonstrated.