Determination and analysis of Actinomyces israelii serotypes by fluorescent-antibody procedures.

This study was undertaken to determine the antigenic relationships between serotypes of Actinomyces israelii with fluorescent-antibody (FA) procedures. In addition, the antigenic relationships between A. israelii and other members of the genus Actinomyces were studied by the same methods. Seven FA conjugates were used to determine the serological characteristics of 28 isolates believed to represent A. israelii, serotypes 1 and 2. The results showed that the lower dilutions of serotype 1 conjugates stained serotype 2 antigens; however, serotype 2 conjugates did not stain serotype 1 antigens. Serotype 1 conjugate could be made specific by adsorption. A. israelii serotype 1 conjugate cross-reacted also with A. naeslundii, but this cross-reaction could be eliminated by adsorption or dilution. Serotype 2 conjugate appeared to be specific for A. israelii serotype 2. Adsorption studies revealed antigenic variants among the various A. israelii serotype 1 and 2 isolates. However, all isolates could be identified by direct FA staining with appropriate conjugates. One isolate previously identified as A. israelii was shown, on the basis of FA studies, to be an A. naeslundii. A polyvalent diagnostic reagent was prepared which was specific for A. israelii serotypes 1 and 2. This reagent should find application in diagnostic and reference laboratories.