Developing an ELISA using serotype-specific antigens from selected pneumococcal strains of own selection

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in infants and elderly people. Pneumococcal strains possess a polysaccharide capsule, and 90 different serotypes have been identified. The pneumococcal ELISA suggested by World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines is based on capsular serotypes included in the 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine (Pneumovax®). Pneumococcal antigens were developed and applied in an ELISA, which elicited a low baseline cross-reaction with the common cell wall polysaccharide (C-Ps). The aim of this study was to develop an ELISA using type-specific antigens from S. pneumoniae strains with serotypes of own selection in order to quantify type-specific pneumococcal antibodies in human serum.