Characterization and immunogenicity of HSV-1 antigens obtained following zwitterionic detergent treatment.

A preparation was obtained from herpesvirus hominis type 1 (HSV-1) infected cells using the zwitterionic detergent, Empigen BB. The preparation was partially purified by ultracentrifugation over a cushion of 20% sucrose. Serological characterization by ELISA and immuno double diffusion, using both polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies shows this preparation to contain HSV glycoproteins, including gC, gD and gE. Immunization of Balb/c mice elicited serum antibody responses against both HSV-1 and HSV-2 viruses, complete protection against HSV-1 (strain WAL) and partial protection against HSV-2 (strain 333).