Rapid Detection of Yeast in Orange Juice by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay

Abstract

Antisera against native yeast of 6 species, Candida intermedia, C. parapsilosis, C. guilliermondii, C. Iambica, Crytococcus lamentii, and Rhodotorula rubra, were prepared for use as probes in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These antisera reacted with yeast cell surface antigens that are thought to consist of protein moieties. The qross-reactivities between the antisera and yeast of 11 species were investigated by immunofluorescent and immunoblotting methods. It was shown that ELISA using the antiserum against C. intermedia or C. parapsilosis, is a valuable means of detecting yeast in orange juice. Yeast of more than 103 were capable of being detected by ELISA.