The measurement of the D-antigen in poliovirus preparations

Abstract

A simple micro-method of measuring ‘D-’ and ‘C-’ antigen contents of poliovirus preparations is described. The D-antigen of poliovirus is almost certainly the component of the virus involved in eliciting neutralizing antibodies, and the D-antigen assay thus becomes a simple in vitro method for assessing the antigenic potency of poliovaccines and for investigating the influence of various factors upon the antigen. The value of the technique in following the concentration and purification of poliovirus preparations is illustrated in the studies reported in the accompanying paper by Fantes (1962). The results of experiments designed to test the validity of the idea that D-antigen is the antigen eliciting neutralizing antibodies are discussed by Beale (1961).