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Updated: Sep 9, 2026
A Multiplex Serological Assay for the Detection of Antibody Responses to Arboviruses
Published on: November 4, 2025
Cross-neutralization studies with group A arthropod-borne viruses
Abstract:
In an extension of recent work on the antigenic interrelationships of arthropod-borne viruses, the plaque-inhibition test has been applied to the study of 15 Group A strains. Middelburg and eastern equine encephalomyelitis viruses show no relationship to any other virus in the group. Sindbis and western equine encephalomyelitis viruses show a one-way relationship only. The remaining viruses all share some antigenic components which react with hyperimmune rabbit sera prepared against Semliki Forest virus. However, using single-dose rabbit sera, or more specific mouse-immune sera, four distinct subgroups can be defined. One includes Semliki Forest virus strains; another Chikungunya virus and its substrains, Vereeniging and TH 35 viruses; the third contains O'nyong-nyong virus; and the fourth Mayaro and Uruma viruses.This paper also demonstrates how the plaque-inhibition technique may be used for the rapid identification of new virus isolates.
Insights
The plaque-inhibition test revealed antigenic relationships among 15 Group A arthropod-borne viruses. Four distinct subgroups were identified within Group A, aiding in rapid virus identification.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Arthropod-borne viruses
Background:
- Recent studies explored antigenic interrelationships of arthropod-borne viruses.
- Group A viruses are a significant focus in arbovirus research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate antigenic relationships among 15 Group A arboviruses using the plaque-inhibition test.
- To define distinct subgroups within Group A based on antigenic properties.
- To demonstrate the utility of plaque-inhibition for rapid identification of new virus isolates.
Main Methods:
- Application of the plaque-inhibition test.
- Utilized hyperimmune rabbit sera against Semliki Forest virus.
- Employed single-dose rabbit sera and specific mouse-immune sera for subgroup definition.
Main Results:
- Middelburg and eastern equine encephalomyelitis viruses showed no relationship to other Group A viruses.
- Sindbis and western equine encephalomyelitis viruses exhibited a one-way antigenic relationship.
- Four distinct subgroups were identified: Semliki Forest virus strains; Chikungunya virus and its substrains (Vereeniging, TH 35); O'nyong-nyong virus; and Mayaro and Uruma viruses.
Conclusions:
- The plaque-inhibition test effectively differentiates Group A arboviruses.
- Established antigenic subgroups within Group A provide a framework for classification.
- Plaque-inhibition is a valuable tool for rapid identification of novel arbovirus isolates.
