An enzyme immunoassay to detect specific antibodies to protein and lipopolysaccharide antigens of Chlamydia trachomatis.

We have developed an enzyme immunoassay to measure antibodies to the proteins and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Chlamydia trachomatis. Antibodies to proteins could be differentiated from antibodies to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) by treatment of the antigen with periodate or Triton X-100. Some important parameters of the oxidation by periodate were studied by comparing the response of several monoclonal antibodies. Four types of response could be observed: type I, a reduced response after mild or strong oxidation; type II, a normal response after mild oxidation, but reduced after strong oxidation; type III, not affected; type IV, an increased response after oxidation. Treatment with Triton X-100 had the same effect as mild oxidation and confirmed the response types I, III, and IV. Treatment of antigen with periodate reduced the IgG response measured in sera from patients with evidence of Chlamydia psittaci infection.