[Development of an immunochromatographic strip test for rapid detection of Vibrio vulnificus]

To establish a rapid strip test for detection of Vibrio vulnificus.

Anti-Vibrio vulnificus polyclonal antibodies were obtained from the rabbits immunized with Vibrio vulnificus (ATCC27562). Colloidal gold was prepared through reducing HAuCl(4)·4H(2)O by sodium citrate and conjugated with the polyclonal antibodies as the detecting reagent. The polyclonal antibodies and sheep anti-rabbit immunoglobulins were separately coated onto the same nitrocellulose membrane for sample detection and quality-control, respectively. The nitrocellulose membrane, gold conjugate pad, sample pad, filter paper and absorbent pad were assembled to prepare the strips. The detection specificity and sensitivity of this strip were evaluated.

The strip test for detecting Vibrio vulnificus yielded results in 20 to 30 min. The detection sensitivity of the test was 2×10(6) CFU/ml. The strip showed no cross-reaction with other bacterial strains. The strips remained stable after preservation at 4 degrees celsius; for 4 months.

With a high specificity and sensitivity, this strip test is applicable in the detection of Vibrio vulnificus.