Rapid and simple identification of mycoplasmas by immunobinding

A simple and rapid method of species identification of mycoplasmas by immunobinding assay is described. Small amounts of antigen of supernatant from cell cultures, broth cultures or clinical specimens were spotted onto nitrocellulose paper. This was followed by application of specific anti-mycoplasma antisera. After incubation, an enzyme-conjugated antiserum against the first antiserum was applied. A positive reaction was indicated by the development of intense blue color reaction when substrate was added. This method identified mycoplasma species with monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. It detected 9.3 X 10(3) - 7.5 X 10(4) CFU/ml of organisms depending on mycoplasma species. For identification of mycoplasma, ureaplasma, acholeplasma and spiroplasma species, this assay is useful and rapid compared with other serological methods. In limited studies, the method correlated with microbiological assay of clinical specimens for Mycoplasma pneumoniae.