Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in the diagnosis of Kilham rat virus infection in rats.

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was adapted and compared with the haemagglutination-inhibition (HAI) test for the serological diagnosis of Kilham rat virus (KRV) infection in rats. The assay is a solid phase, indirect method for the measurement of specific antibody. Test variables such as the amount of purified KRV for coating polystyrene microtitre plates, dilution of peroxidase conjugate, etc. were standardized for optimum results. Sera from both naturally and experimentally infected rats were examined, and the ELISA was found to be 5-10 times more sensitive for KRV serology. The kinetics of antibody development during experimental infection, as determined by ELISA, paralleled that of the HAI test and antibodies could be detected as early as 4 days after infection.