Production of a specific monoclonal antibody for the identification of Leishmania (Leishmania) venezuelensis.

We describe a monoclonal antibody (Mab), V1, specific for Leishmania (Leishmania) venezuelensis. Previous Mabs and DNA probes were not specific for this parasite, and so it was not directly possible to distinguish L. (L.) venezuelensis from other Leishmania species. Immunofluorescent staining using Mabs may be performed on very few parasites, whereas other methods of identification usually require far greater numbers of organisms. L. (L.) venezuelensis frequently dies on subculture. Mab V1 can be used to identify this parasite by indirect immunofluorescence and radioimmunoassay.