Confirmation of a new conserved linear epitope of Lyssavirus nucleoprotein

Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict potential epitopes of Lyssavirus nucleoprotein and highlighted some distinct differences in the quantity and localization of the epitopes disclosed by epitope analysis of monoclonal antibodies against Lyssavirus nucleoprotein. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the domain containing residues 152–164 of Lyssavirus nucleoprotein was a conserved linear epitope that had not been reported previously. Immunization of two rabbits with the corresponding synthetic peptide conjugated to the Keyhole Limpe hemocyanin (KLH) macromolecule resulted in a titer of anti-peptide antibody above 1:200,000 in rabbit sera as detected by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot analysis demonstrated that the anti-peptide antibody recognized denatured Lyssavirus nucleoprotein in sodium dodecylsulfonate-polyacrylate gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Affinity chromatography purification and FITC-labeling of the anti-peptide antibody in rabbit sera was performed. FITC-labeled anti-peptide antibody could recognize Lyssavirus nucleoprotein in BSR cells and canine brain tissues even at a 1:200 dilution. Residues 152–164 of Lyssavirus nucleoprotein were verified as a conserved linear epitope in Lyssavirus.

► Bioinformatics analysis was used to discover new epitopes of Lyssavirus.
► A new conserved linear epitope of Lyssavirus nucleoprotein was shown.
► A method to confirm new epitopes of Lyssavirus nucleoprotein was established.
► Anti-peptide antibody was tested for potential application for diagnosis of rabies.