PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - E. Zalan
AU  - C. Wilson
TI  - A new method for rapid identification of influenza virus isolates
DP  - 1976 Nov 20
TA  - Canadian Medical Association Journal
PG  - 1002--1003
VI  - 115
IP  - 10
4099  - http://www.cmaj.ca/content/115/10/1002.short
4100  - http://www.cmaj.ca/content/115/10/1002.full
SO  - CMAJ1976 Nov 20; 115
AB  - With the use of bacteria sensitized by influenza virus strain-specific antisera, virus isolates can be identified rapidly. One drop of virus suspension is mixed with one drop of sensitized bacteria on a slide that is then agitated; reaction occurs within 10 minutes. The test is subtype-specific. The mehod is based on the fact that the cell wall of the Cowan type 1 strain of Staphylococcus aureus contains abundant quantities of an antigen, known as protein A, that reacts with the IgG molecule by binding it in such a manner that the antibody-combining sites remain free. If an antigen homologous to the antibody coated on the surface of the bacteria is added to the suspension of sensitized staphylococci, agglutination occurs.