Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for detection of antibody to<i>leucocytozoon cauller yi</i>

Abstract

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect antibodies to Leucocytozoon caulleryi in chicken sera. The assay was standardised in terms of antigen coating conditions, optimum antigen concentration, serum and conjugate dilutions. The schizont antigen showed a strong affinity for binding or absorbing to the surface of the polystyrene wells of the microplate. Nonspecific binding of antigen and cross-reactions were not observed with sera from specific-pathogen-free chickens and antisera against various chicken disease agents. The ELISA was more sensitive than the indirect immuno-fluorescent antibody test and the agar gel precipitation test.