Abstract
Summary
A fluorescent-antibody system is reported which allows rapid analysis of the minor antigenic differences between mouse mammary tumor agent (MTA) extracts obtained from different sources. This method correlates very well with the bio-assay method reported by Bittner and associates. An analysis of the antigenic component can be made within a few hours after receiving the MTA extract. In the older bio-assay method up to 2 years of observations were necessary for proper evaluation. The disadvantages of the fluorescent-antibody system include, a) interference by non-specific fluorescence, b) limitations imposed by antisera employed, c) removal of normal tissue antibodies, and d) selection of appropriate fluorescent dyes for conjugation to the sera. These disadvantages can be partially overcome by carefully selecting the antigens to be used for preparing antisera, adsorption of antisera with mouse liver powder extracts, concentration of globulin fractions prior to conjugation, and use of sharply contrasting fluorescent dyes.
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