Improved serological detection of infection with Vero cytotoxin producing Escherichia coli

Vero cytotoxin producing Escherichia coli (VTEC)--including all those of serogroup O157--and enteropathogenic E. coli produce attaching and effacing lesions in gut epithelium. Immunoblotting was used to detect antibodies to secreted proteins associated with the formation of these lesions. These tests should provide additional evidence of VTEC infection in conjunction with current assays for antibioties to E. coli O157 lipopolysaccharide.