Identification and mapping of linear antigenic determinants of chicken riboflavin carrier protein

All of the possible 212 overlapping octapeptides covering the amino acid sequence of chicken egg white riboflavin carrier protein (RCP) was synthesized on polyethylene rods. To identify the peptides constituting the sequential antigenic epitopes on chicken RCP, a PEPSCAN ELISA was employed where antibodies raised against SDS-treated, reduced and carboxymethylated RCP (RCM-RCP) in mice, rats (n = 4), rabbits and monkeys (n = 3) were used. By this approach, we could identify five sequences on chicken RCP commonly recognized by all the antisera from these species which were spanning the residues 10-17, 42-49, 134-141, 172-179 and 200-207. Analysis of the data for each individual antiserum indicated inter- and intra-species variations with N- and C-terminal shifts in peak reactivity. The present study offers clues for development of potential immunocontraceptive vaccines.