Differentiation of proteinase (minor toxin lambda) in Clostridium perfringens strains from sheep and goats in Iran

17 Clostridium perfringens strains isolated post mortem from sheep and goats in Iran were examined by biochemical tests and by enzyme immuno assay (EIA). 7 of the C. perfringens strains belonged to type B, 8 strains were type D, one strain was type A, one strain was untypable by EIA. The isolated strains were examined for presence of Minor Toxin Lambda (proteinase) to identify the Iran subtype of C. perfringens type B. The results are compared to characteristics of Clostridium perfringens reference strains. The differentiation technique for proteinase (Minor Toxin Lambda) is discussed.