[Differentiation of immunoglobulin classes in the chicken]

Investigations were carried out to establish and differentiate the humoral immunoglobulins in SPF-chickens, following an antigenic stimulus with Salmonella pullorum. As many as five components were found in the blood sera of the test birds, which were shown to have immunoglobulin properties. They were differentiated as IgM, IgA, IgG1, IgG2, and IgG3. Those of the IgA-type were found in exudate material from the abdominal cavity of birds infected with Salmonella pullorum. In the course of the infectious process initiated by Salmonella pullorum in SPF-birds and followed up for 16 days only immunoglobulins sensitive to 2-mercaptoethanol were produced.