Use of 1‐(m‐aminophenyl)flavazoles for the preparation of immunogens with oligosaccharide determinant groups. A method is described for the preparation of immunogens with oligosaccharide determinant groups

Abstract

Abstract A method is described for the preparation of immunogens with oligosaccharide determinant groups. The method, which consists of conversion of the sugar into its 1‐(maminophenyl)flavazole and subsequent azo‐coupling to protein, has been elaborated with various oligosaccharides of the isomaltose‐, maltose‐, and cellobiose‐series. It requires unsubstituted hydroxyl groups on positions 2 and 3 adjacent to the reducing end of the sugar and appears to be especially suited for oligosaccharides having a polymerization degree between 3 and 8. The procedure does not necessitate protection of the sugar hydroxyl groups. Oligosaccharide‐flavazole‐azo‐edestin conjugates have been tested for immunogenicity in rabbits. Specific anti‐oligosaccharide antibodies were formed in all instances. High titres of dextranspecific antibodies were obtained upon immunization with an isomaltoheptaose‐flavazole‐azo‐edestin conjugate. Further applications of the method will be discussed.